Principles of Non-Violence and Anekantavada Vital for Modern Society: Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini

Chandigarh, July 8 — Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday paid tribute to Acharya Bhikshu Swami Ji, describing him as not merely a monk but a courageous social reformer whose philosophy continues to hold relevance in today’s world. Addressing the 300th birth anniversary celebrations of Acharya Bhikshu in Chandigarh, Saini said that the teachings of great saints and philosophers provide moral direction for building a virtuous society — the bedrock for realizing the dream of a developed India.

“The vision of a developed India can only be fulfilled when society is built on strong ethical values and character. Every citizen must imbibe these values to make our nation self-reliant and strong,” Saini said, speaking before a gathering of Jain monks, scholars, and devotees.

Acharya Bhikshu: A Social Reformer and Philosopher

Saini praised Acharya Bhikshu Swami Ji as a revolutionary thinker who challenged prevailing social evils and redefined spirituality with rationality. Born in Vikram Samvat 1783 in the village of Kantaliya, Acharya Bhikshu, originally named Bhikhan, dedicated his life to truth, asceticism, and discipline. In Vikram Samvat 1817, he founded the Terapanth sect, emphasizing the principles of “One Acharya, One Code, and One Ideology,” which became the foundation of unity, discipline, and devotion within the sect.

Saini noted that Acharya Bhikshu’s philosophy of Ahimsa (non-violence) goes beyond abstaining from physical harm, encompassing purity of thought, speech, and action — values urgently needed in a world fraught with tension and intolerance.

Anekantavada: The Essence of Democracy

Highlighting Anekantavada, or pluralism, Saini said this doctrine is the soul of democracy as it teaches respect for diverse perspectives. He added that Acharya Bhikshu’s message of Aparigraha (non-possessiveness) stands as a moral counterpoint to today’s consumerism, material excess, and corruption.

“Our saints kept the culture of India alive. In an age driven by materialism, the Jain monks are symbols of sacrifice and restraint,” he remarked, emphasizing that Acharya Bhikshu’s teachings remain a powerful guide for contemporary society.

A Call to Youth for Moral Discipline

Saini urged youth to read and absorb the teachings of Acharya Bhikshu, whose life exemplified courage, truth, self-control, and service to the nation. “Acharya Bhikshu believed that when individuals improve, society and the nation naturally transform. This aligns with our conviction that national development is possible only on the foundation of moral values,” he said.

He added that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is moving toward becoming a developed nation, a goal achievable only through a society anchored in discipline and ethics.

On the occasion, Muni Shri Vinay Kumar Alok Ji and Muni Shri Sudhakar Ji shared insights on Acharya Bhikshu’s life and the tenets of Terapanth, noting that while it is easy to speak about a saint’s teachings, living by them remains a significant challenge. They highlighted the unique Terapanth principle of “One Guru, One Code,” emphasizing unwavering devotion to the sect’s spiritual leader.