Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed condolences on the demise of Jain muni Acharya Vidhyasagar Ji Maharaj. Renowned Jain seer Acharya Vidhyasagar Maharaj died on Sunday morning at Chandragiri Teerth in Chhattisgarh’s Dongargarh.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the countless devotees of Acharya Shri 108 Vidhyasagar Ji Maharaj Ji. He will be remembered by the coming generations for his invaluable contributions to society, especially his efforts towards spiritual awakening among people, his work towards poverty alleviation, healthcare, education and more,” PM Modi wrote on X.
His post added, “I had the honour of receiving his blessings for years. I can never forget my visit to the Chandragiri Jain Mandir in Dongargarh, Chhattisgarh late last year. That time, I had spent time with Acharya Shri 108 Vidhyasagar Ji Maharaj Ji and also received his blessings.”
Bharatiya Janata Party president JP Nadda, in a post in Hindi on X, expressed “shock” over the death.
“I am shocked to receive the news of the demise of the most revered Saint Shiromani Acharya Shri 108 Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj. He has given new dimensions to the invaluable spiritual heritage of Jainism. His teachings, full of knowledge, compassion and goodwill, will always provide us guidance for the progress of society and culture. I bow down profusely at the feet of Samadhistha Acharya Shri,” Nadda wrote on X.
Acharya Vidhyasagar Maharaj, revered as the most eminent muni in the Digambar Jain community, was celebrated for his exceptional scholarly pursuits and profound spiritual insight. Born on October 10, 1946, in Sadalga, Karnataka, he exhibited a penchant for spirituality from an early age.
At the tender age of 22, in 1968, he underwent initiation as a Digambara monk under the guidance of Acharya Gyansagar Ji Maharaj, marking the beginning of his dedicated spiritual journey. His unwavering commitment and scholarly acumen led to his elevation to the esteemed position of Acharya in 1972.
Throughout his lifetime, Acharya Vidhyasagar Maharaj immersed himself in the study and application of Jain scriptures and philosophy, showcasing unparalleled devotion to his faith. Renowned for his mastery over Sanskrit, Prakrit, and other languages, he authored numerous insightful commentaries, poems, and spiritual treatises, leaving an indelible mark on Jain literature.
Among his notable works cherished within the Jain community are the Niranjana Shataka, Bhavana Shataka, Parishah Jaya Shataka, Suniti Shataka, and Shramana Shataka. Moreover, Acharya Vidhyasagar Maharaj ardently championed the promotion of Hindi and advocated for the adoption of the state’s official language in the justice delivery system, reflecting his commitment to linguistic and social causes alongside his spiritual endeavours.
