New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on citizens to participate in the ‘Navkar Mahamantra Divas’, scheduled to be held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on on Tuesday, April 9, a day before the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti. The event aims to promote spiritual unity and ethical awareness through the collective chanting of one of Jainism’s most revered mantras. In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister said, “At 8 AM on 9th April, a day before the auspicious occasion of Mahavir Jayanti, I will be attending a very unique programme with a distinctly global imprint — the Navkar Mahamantra Divas, which will be held at Vigyan Bhawan in Delhi. People from over 108 nations will be in the programme, which will witness a global chant for peace, unity and spiritual awakening.”

Highlighting the essence of the Navkar Mahamantra, PM Modi said the sacred chant embodies the core values of Jainism, including spirituality, humility, non-violence, and brotherhood. “It is a means to calm and inner peace. The Navkar Mahamantra rises above all divisions and has a strong uniting ability,” he said. “I look forward to the programme day after and I urge you all to take part, chant, and celebrate the bonds that unite us!”

According to an official statement, PM Modi will also deliver an address at the event, which is expected to draw participants from across India and over 100 countries around the world.

What is Navkar Mahamantra Divas?

Navkar Mahamantra Divas is observed as a spiritual gathering to celebrate harmony, compassion, and self-awareness. The mantra pays homage to enlightened beings and encourages reflection on values such as self-purification, non-violence, and collective well-being. Rooted in the teachings of Jain philosophy, it aims to foster unity across diverse communities.

The event precedes Mahavir Jayanti, which falls on April 10 this year. The festival marks the birth anniversary of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, who was born in 615 BC into a royal family and named Vardhamana. At the age of 30, he renounced worldly life in pursuit of truth and spiritual liberation, undertaking years of penance and meditation before attaining ‘Kevala Jnana’ or absolute knowledge.

Lord Mahavir’s teachings laid the foundation of Jainism and continue to resonate with followers globally. Mahavir Jayanti is celebrated with devotion and enthusiasm by the Jain community worldwide. His core message of ahimsa parmo dharma — non-violence is the highest form of religion — remains deeply relevant in today’s world, promoting peace, tolerance, and compassion.

(With agency inputs)