Context:
• Centenary of Acharya Ji’s visit to Shravanabelagola in 1925 for the Mahamastakabhisheka ceremony.
• Vice-President unveiled the idol of Acharya Shri Shantisagar Maharaj Ji at Shravanabelagola, honouring his legacy.
Key Highlights – Jain Heritage / Spiritual Legacy / Cultural Significance
• Acharya Shri Shantisagar Maharaj Ji revitalised the Digambara Jain tradition.
• His life embodied Ahimsa, Aparigraha, Anekantavada – essential for inner peace & social harmony.
• Message emphasised self-restraint over possession, inner peace over indulgence.
• Centenary celebrations rekindled a spiritual flame for future generations; new statue will inspire visitors on purity, simplicity & compassion.
• Shravanabelagola is among India’s most ancient Jain centres with 2000+ years history.
• The 57-foot monolithic Bahubali statue (Ganga minister Chavundaraya/Chamundaraya) stands as a symbol of devotion & artistic excellence.
• Emperor Chandragupta Maurya renounced life here under Acharya Bhadrabahu → symbolising that after attaining worldly power, one seeks spiritual enlightenment.
• Govt of India conferred Classical Language status to Prakrit; Gyan Bharatham Mission for digitising Jain manuscripts appreciated.
• Noted strong historical links between Tamil Nadu & Jainism – Jain contribution to Tamil literature (Silappadikaram, Sangam & post-Sangam).
• Shri Abhinav Charukeerthi Bhattarak Swamiji, current head of Jain Mutt – advancing healthcare, education & research through institutions including Prakrit Research Institute.
• Jain tenets of non-violence, self-restraint & renunciation continue to shape India’s spiritual ethos.
Karnataka’s Rich Heritage & Education Message
• Karnataka’s rich heritage highlighted; Kannada recognised as a Classical Language.
• NEP 2020 praised for interdisciplinary learning & flexibility → empowering students.
• Advisory to youth: use social media judiciously, uphold self-discipline, be attentive to parents, adopt positive qualities from society.
• Ancient wisdom: “Knowledge is the real wealth”.
• Graduates urged to carry forward wisdom for Viksit Bharat 2047, inspire future generations & contribute to nation-building.
Relevant Mains Points:
• Jainism’s core doctrinal pillars (Ahimsa, Aparigraha, Anekantavada) → India’s ethical foundations & soft power.
• Shravanabelagola = civilisational continuity site (Mauryan link, Bahubali art heritage, Prakrit knowledge tradition).
• Language Policy: Classical Language recognition → cultural preservation + linguistic identity protection.
• NEP 2020 = structural education reform for 21st century competencies.
Way Forward:
• Expand digitisation of Jain manuscripts; establish Jain knowledge digital library clusters.
• Strengthen Jain pilgrimage circuits with conservation standards.
UPSC Relevance:
Art & Culture (Jainism, Bahubali statue, Prakrit), Indian Heritage Sites, Language Policy (Classical Languages), NEP 2020, Ethics (Ahimsa, Aparigraha).