Will Vice President Radhakrishnan Make His Mark in Karnataka Today?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- C. P. Radhakrishnan is visiting Karnataka for the first time since taking office.
- He will honor a historic Jain leader at Shravanabelagola.
- The visit highlights the significance of Jain teachings in contemporary society.
- Engagement with educational institutions underscores the value placed on education.
- His personal commitment to vegetarianism reflects the broader Jain principles of compassion.
New Delhi, Nov 9 (NationPress) Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan is set to arrive in Karnataka this Sunday, marking his first visit to the state since taking office in September, according to official sources.
During his trip to the southern region, the Vice President will take part in the Commemoration of Parampujya Acharya Shri 108 Shanti Sagar Maharaj Ji, paying respect to the esteemed Jain monk and spiritual figure at Shravanabelagola, Hassan.
This occasion celebrates the centenary of the initial visit by Charitra Chakravarti Acharya Shri 108 Shanti Sagar Maharaj to Shravanabelagola in 1925, as noted in a statement from an official.
While at the commemoration, he will also partake in the 'Installation Ceremony' for the idol of Acharya Shri Shanti Sagar Maharaj and the 'Naming Ceremony' of the Fourth Hill.
Later, Vice President Radhakrishnan will attend the sixteenth Convocation Ceremony of JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research in Mysuru, which is linked to the Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Math at Suttur Srikshetra, where he will address the graduating class.
Additionally, he plans to visit the historic grounds of Suttur Math, one of Karnataka's key monastic hubs.
He will also offer prayers at the Shree Chamundeshwari Devi Temple near Mysuru and the Cheluvanarayana Swamy Temple in Melkote, Mandya.
On Saturday, he emphasized the significant contributions of Jainism, one of the world's ancient religions, stating that its principles—Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), and Anekantavada (multiple perspectives on truth)—have profoundly influenced India and beyond.
At the Eighth 180 Upvas Parna Ceremony for Jain Acharya Shri Hansratna Surishwarji Maharaj Ji in New Delhi, he remarked that Ahimsa, which inspired Mahatma Gandhi during India's independence struggle, continues to motivate global peace initiatives.
The Vice President also noted that the Jain values of vegetarianism, compassion for animals, and sustainable living have gained worldwide recognition as a model for environmental stewardship.
Reflecting on his personal experiences, he revealed that he adopted vegetarianism 25 years ago after a visit to Kashi, stating that it fosters humility, maturity, and love for all living beings.
He praised the government's initiatives, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to grant 'Classical Language' status to Prakrit and the preservation of Jain manuscripts through projects like the 'Gyan Bharatham Mission'.