Pali, Prakrit Classical Language status preserving Jain heritage: Gujarat CM Patel
Synopsis
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel used the inauguration of a major new Jain complex in Ahmedabad to underscore a pointed cultural argument: that granting Classical Language status to Pali and Prakrit is not ceremonial — it is active preservation of Jainism's literary canon. The remarks connect a Centre-level policy decision to grassroots religious infrastructure in a state heading into a politically significant period.
Key Takeaways
Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel inaugurated Shri Nitya Shanti Bhavan at Shela, Ahmedabad on 27 June .
Patel said the Centre's 'Classical Language' status for Pali and Prakrit is playing a significant role in preserving Jain literary heritage .
He described PM Narendra Modi 's move as a 'monumental task' of safeguarding priceless Jain scriptures.
The Samprati Museum at Koba, Gandhinagar was cited as another example of the Centre's cultural preservation efforts.
The new complex includes a Prabhu Chaitya , monks' quarters, lecture hall, educational facilities, pilgrim accommodation, and modern amenities.
Minister of State Darshana Vaghela and leaders of multiple Jain organisations attended the ceremony.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Saturday, 27 June said the Centre's decision to grant 'Classical Language' status to Pali and Prakrit has been instrumental in preserving the irreplaceable literary heritage of Jainism. He made the remarks while inaugurating the newly constructed Shri Nitya Shanti Bhavan at Shela in Ahmedabad, under the spiritual guidance of Rashtrasant Acharyadev Padmasagarsurishwar Maharaja.
Key Remarks by the Chief Minister
Addressing the gathering, Patel described Prime Minister Narendra Modi's move to accord Classical Language status to Pali and Prakrit as a 'monumental task' of safeguarding priceless Jain scriptures. He also referenced the recently inaugurated Samprati Museum at Koba in Gandhinagar as a reflection of the Centre's sustained commitment to protecting India's cultural and spiritual legacy.
'The country is progressing under the Prime Minister's vision of Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi, combining development with the preservation of heritage. Historic efforts, ranging from the Somnath Swabhiman Parva to restoring the global stature of Indian culture, had been realised under the Prime Minister's leadership,' Patel said.
Spirituality and Modernity
Emphasising the role of spirituality in contemporary life, the Chief Minister said material comforts alone could not bring lasting happiness. 'There is a form of happiness and peace beyond material comforts, and it can only be attained through the spiritual path,' he said, adding that integrating spirituality with modernity could open new avenues for public welfare.
Expressing confidence in the new complex's role, Patel said the building — constructed under the guidance of Acharyadev Padmasagarsurishwar Maharaja — would serve as a centre promoting humanity, peace, and compassion while providing modern facilities for the Jain community.
About Shri Nitya Shanti Bhavan
The newly inaugurated complex houses a grand Prabhu Chaitya, an Upashray for monks and nuns, a lecture hall, an Ayambil Shala, educational facilities including a Pathshala and Gyan Shala for children and youth, a Dharmashala for pilgrims, a Sukrut Shala, and other modern amenities. The inauguration was attended by leaders of various Jain organisations and a large number of devotees.
Acharya's Address and Community Values
In his address, Rashtrasant Padmasagarsurishwar Maharaja drew on historical examples and ancient teachings to explain the values of charity, selfless service, and compassion. He encouraged attendees to use their wealth for the welfare of the poor and needy through sacrifice, dedication, and service as a means of freeing themselves from the bonds of karma.
Patel also highlighted the Jain community's millennia-old tradition of public service and compassion towards all living beings. He urged people to adopt water conservation, cleanliness, the 'Vocal for Local' ethos, and natural farming as daily commitments advocated by the Prime Minister. Minister of State for Urban Development Darshana Vaghela was also present at the ceremony.
Before the inauguration, Chief Minister Patel offered prayers at the Jin Chaitya housing the ancient idol of Munisuvratswami Bhagwan, praying for the well-being and prosperity of the people of Gujarat.
Point of View
Announced by the Centre, carries genuine scholarly weight — both languages are primary vehicles for Jain and Buddhist canonical texts that remain under-digitised and under-researched. Gujarat CM Patel's invocation of the policy at a religious inauguration, however, also signals how cultural heritage decisions are being woven into political messaging ahead of state cycles. The real measure of the designation's impact will be in university curriculum changes, manuscript digitisation funding, and research fellowships — none of which were detailed at the event. Connecting a language-status decision to the Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi slogan is effective framing, but the institutional follow-through remains to be seen.
NationPress
27 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Classical Language status for Pali and Prakrit?
Classical Language status recognises Pali and Prakrit as ancient languages of significant literary and historical heritage, unlocking government funding for research, curriculum inclusion, and manuscript preservation. Both languages are primary scriptural vehicles for Jainism and Buddhism, making the designation particularly relevant for preserving their canonical texts.
What is Shri Nitya Shanti Bhavan and where is it located?
Shri Nitya Shanti Bhavan is a newly built Jain religious and community complex located at Shela in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. It was inaugurated on 27 June under the guidance of Rashtrasant Acharyadev Padmasagarsurishwar Maharaja and houses a Prabhu Chaitya, monks' quarters, lecture halls, educational facilities, and pilgrim accommodation.
What did Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel say about PM Modi's role in preserving Jain heritage?
CM Patel described PM Modi's decision to accord Classical Language status to Pali and Prakrit as a 'monumental task' of safeguarding priceless Jain scriptures. He also cited the Samprati Museum at Koba in Gandhinagar as evidence of the Centre's broader commitment to India's cultural and spiritual legacy.
What is the Samprati Museum mentioned by CM Patel?
The Samprati Museum is a recently inaugurated cultural institution at Koba in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. CM Patel referenced it as an example of the Centre's efforts to preserve India's Jain cultural heritage alongside the Classical Language status granted to Pali and Prakrit.
Who else attended the Shri Nitya Shanti Bhavan inauguration?
The inauguration was attended by Minister of State for Urban Development Darshana Vaghela, leaders of various Jain organisations, and a large number of devotees. The ceremony was held under the spiritual guidance of Rashtrasant Acharyadev Padmasagarsurishwar Maharaja.
