The spirit of ‘Ahimsa Parmo Dharma’ is more relevant today than ever: CM Nayab Singh Saini
Chief Minister extends greetings to the people on Akshaya Tritiya and Varshitapa Parana festival
CM lays foundation stone of first floor of Piyush Block Hospital in Karnal; also inaugurates two bird towers and a Jeev Seva Kendra
New Delhi, April 19 – Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that the core principle of Jainism— “Ahimsa Parmo Dharma” (non-violence is the highest duty)—is more relevant today than ever. Amid global conflicts, wars, and violence, it conveys a message of peace and compassion. He stated that the Varshi Tap Parna festival of this religion is especially inspiring for the youth, as it teaches the importance of self-discipline and patience. If the younger generation adopts these values, it will lead not only to their personal growth but also to the progress of society and the nation.
The Chief Minister was addressing a special religious gathering as the chief guest at Shri Atma Manohar Jain Aradhana Mandir in Karnal. On this occasion, he laid the foundation stone of the first floor of Piyush Block Hospital and inaugurated two bird towers and a Jeev Seva Kendra. He also interacted with patients admitted in the hospital and offered prayers at the temple of Lord Ghantakarna Mahavir. During the event, he also honoured social workers.
On this occasion, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that today is Akshaya Tritiya, the birth anniversary of Lord Parshuram, and also the Varshitapa Parana festival. Lord Rishabh Dev concluded his 400-day fast with sugarcane juice. Extending heartfelt greetings to the people of the state on these auspicious occasions, he said that the Varshitapa Parana festival is being celebrated at the Aradhana Mandir. This place holds great significance in Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist traditions and is a revered shrine of the powerful deity Ghantakarna Mahavir. It also houses the sacred site of Osian Mata and the samadhi temple of Gurudev Manohar Muni, which is a centre of deep faith. Regular spiritual camps are organized here to guide people in the art of living.
He added that this festival is being celebrated in the land of Mahaveer Danveer Karna, known for his generosity and firm vows. The spiritual vibrations of Karna are still present in this land, as reflected in the many devoted and charitable individuals present here. He said that he always draws inspiration from the social service institutions of Karnal.
Sh. Saini stated that under the able leadership of the Prime Minister, India is progressing continuously while also reviving and promoting its rich cultural heritage globally. Over the past 11 years, several historic initiatives have been undertaken for cultural preservation and revival. Referring to the construction of the grand Ram Temple, the development of the Mahakaleshwar Corridor, and the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, he said these are results of visionary leadership. He also mentioned the renovation of the sacred site in Kurukshetra where Lord Krishna delivered the message of the Bhagavad Gita. He said that the Prime Minister is not only building a modern India but also working towards making it a Vishwa Guru by following the teachings of sages and saints.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Jainism places great importance on penance and renunciation. A follower undergoes rigorous discipline for 14 years to become a monk. The Varshitapa holds a special place in this tradition, symbolizing purification, restraint, and sacrifice. Jainism has guided humanity towards the right path for centuries. He also appreciated the contributions of Sant Gaurav Piyush Muni Maharaj in fields like education, healthcare, nation-building, compassion for living beings, and environmental protection.
He said that Jainism has historically flourished in Haryana, with regions like Gurugram, Rohtak, Faridabad, Bhiwani, and Hisar deeply influenced by Jain culture thousands of years ago. Archaeological findings such as inscriptions and idols of Tirthankaras support this. Even today, Jain temples and religious centers are present across the state, and the Jain community has significantly contributed to its development. The government is committed to respecting and promoting all religions. To ensure that economically weaker elderly devotees are not deprived of pilgrimage opportunities, the government has launched the Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana. Under this scheme, a train will be sent from Kurukshetra to Nanded Sahib on May 5.
On this occasion, Piyush Muni Ji Maharaj said that Akshaya Tritiya is not just a date in the Indian calendar but symbolizes the pinnacle of sacrifice, penance, and charity. True spirituality is not limited to material comforts or outward appearances; it lies in awakening the inner light and serving humanity.
He explained that Lord Rishabhdev performed continuous penance for 12 months. At that time, people were unaware of the proper method of offering alms. Even though he was a king, when he went for alms, people offered him valuables like silver, pearls, and precious items, which he did not accept. After a long period of 12 months, his grandson Shreyans Kumar, guided by divine inspiration, offered him sugarcane juice as food, thereby concluding his penance.
This incident teaches the value of selfless charity and timely service. He also highlighted the astrological importance of Akshaya Tritiya, stating that unlike other dates that fluctuate with the lunar cycle, the merit earned on this day never diminishes, making it highly auspicious for all good deeds.
On this occasion, Indri MLA Sh. Ramkumar Kashyap, Karnal MLA Sh. Jagmohan Anand, Assandh MLA Sh. Yogender Rana, and other dignitaries were present.
