Mahavir Jayanti Teachings Still Relevant in Turbulent World, Says MP CM Mohan Yadav

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister honours four social workers with Mahavir Alankar at Indore event; Jain federations praised for exemplary community service

A Message for the Ages

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav on Sunday said that the teachings of Lord Mahavira — the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism — remain as relevant today as they were nearly 2,500 years ago, particularly in the context of mounting global conflict and unrest.

Addressing a large gathering at the Mahavir Jayanti Lecture and Mahavir Alankar Honour Ceremony held at Shri Madan Mohan Mehta Auditorium in Indore, Dr. Yadav said that Lord Mahavira's timeless principles of truth, non-violence, non-possessiveness, and compassion offer a path forward in today's fractured world.

"His Jayanti is not just a day to observe — it is a message to live by, year-round," the Chief Minister said.

Four Served, Four Honoured

The centrepiece of the evening was the conferral of the prestigious Mahavir Alankar on four distinguished social workers — Shri Chandanmal Chauradia, Shri Hansraj Jain, Shri Hansmukh Gandhi, and Shri Santosh Kumar Jain — recognised for embodying Mahavira's teachings through decades of community service.

Dr. Yadav, while presenting the awards, said that the honourees had not just spoken about the principles of Lord Mahavira but had lived them. "Your conduct and your achievements will inspire others to walk the same path," he said.

Federations Set a Benchmark

The Chief Minister praised the Digambar Jain Social Group Federation and the Shwetambar Jain Social Group Federation for their collaborative effort in organising the joint event, calling it a living example of organisational strength, dedication, and commitment to society.

He said that the two federations stand as vibrant models of community service, and their united front demonstrates what voluntary organisations can achieve when guided by shared values.

Ahimsa in a World at War

Dr. Yadav did not shy away from referencing current global tensions, urging world leaders and those fomenting conflict to reflect on Mahavira's foundational principle — Ahimsa Paramo Dharma (non-violence is the highest duty).

"Those who are pushing the world into chaos for narrow self-interest must remember that the answer to violence and disorder is not retaliation — it is compassion and restraint," he said, according to officials present at the event.

Science Meets Ancient Wisdom

Drawing a parallel between modern science and age-old Jain philosophy, the Chief Minister referenced the work of eminent scientist Dr. Jagadish Chandra Bose, who demonstrated nearly a century ago that plants experience life and feeling — a truth that, he noted, ordinary villagers in India have always instinctively respected.

He also spoke of Jain philosophy's detailed exposition of the human body, the five senses, and concepts such as the soul, fasting, and self-discipline — underscoring the depth and enduring relevance of Jain thought.

A Push for Green Energy

In a notable policy reference, Dr. Yadav connected the Jain principle of aparigraha (non-attachment to material excess) with his government's push for clean and sustainable energy.

"Just as our food must be satvik (pure and wholesome), so too must our energy be clean," he said, adding that the Madhya Pradesh government is making focused efforts in green energy production as part of its commitment to environmental responsibility.

A Gathering of Dignitaries

The event was inaugurated with the traditional lighting of the lamp by the Chief Minister alongside community members. It was also addressed by educationist Shri Swapnil Kothari and senior journalist Shri Rajesh Chelawat.

Among those present were Water Resources Minister Shri Tulsiram Silawat, MLAs Shri Ramesh Mendola, Shri Manoj Patel, Shri Golu Shukla, and Shri Sawan Sonkar, along with senior office-bearers of both Jain federations and a large number of community members and Jain saints.

Mahavir Jayanti this year will be formally observed on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, with celebrations across India including prayers, Rath Yatras, and charitable activities.