Karnal, April 19: Haryana Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh Saini stated that today, the core ethos of Jainism—*Ahimsa Paramo Dharma* (Non-violence is the supreme duty)—is more relevant than ever before. Amidst the various conflicts, wars, and violence plaguing the world, it serves as a beacon of peace and love. The *Varshi Tap Parana Parv* (Festival of Breaking the Annual Fast) associated with this religion holds particular inspiration for the youth today. It underscores the importance of self-control and patience. If the younger generation were to embrace these values ??in their lives, it would not only foster their personal growth but also propel society and the nation forward on the path of progress.
The Chief Minister was speaking as the Chief Guest at a special religious congregation held on Sunday at the Shri Atma Manohar Jain Aradhana Mandir in Karnal. On this occasion, he also laid the foundation stone for the first floor of the Piyush Block Hospital and inaugurated two bird towers (*Pakshi Minars*) as well as a *Jeev Seva Kendra* (Animal Welfare Center). He inquired about the well-being of patients admitted to the hospital and offered prayers to Lord Ghantakarna Mahavir at the temple, seeking his blessings. During the event, he also felicitated various social workers.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh Saini noted that today marks *Akshaya Tritiya*—the very day Lord Parashurama incarnated on Earth. Today also marks the *Varshi Tap Parana Parv*, commemorating the occasion when Lord Rishabhadeva broke his 400-day fast by consuming sugarcane juice. Extending his heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the people of the state on these auspicious days, he highlighted that the *Varshi Tap Parana Parv* is being celebrated today at the Aradhana Mandir. This shrine serves as a pilgrimage site dedicated to the highly potent deity Ghantakarna Mahavir—a figure accorded a place of reverence across Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist traditions. The complex also houses a shrine dedicated to the powerful Goddess Osia Mata. Furthermore, the *Samadhi Mandir* (memorial shrine) of Gurudev Manohar Muni stands here as a central hub of faith. Every month, "Atma Shanti Shivirs" (camps for inner peace) are organized here to provide guidance to people on the art of living. He remarked that the *Varshi Tap Parana Parv* is being celebrated in the very city of Mahavir Karna—the legendary epitome of charity. Karna himself was a great philanthropist and a man of unwavering resolve; his spiritual vibrations continue to resonate throughout this city to this day. The proof of this lies in the fact that, even today, numerous great benefactors and individuals of unwavering resolve are seated before him. He remarked that whenever he visits Karnal, he draws special inspiration from the social service organizations active in the region.
Mr. Saini stated that, under the able leadership of the Prime Minister, India is not only making continuous progress but is also securing a new global identity for its ancient culture and glorious traditions. Over the past 11 years, historic strides have been made in the country regarding cultural preservation and revitalization.
Citing the construction of the magnificent temple of Lord Shri Ram, as well as the development of the Mahakaleshwar Corridor and the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, he noted that all these achievements are the result of the Prime Minister's visionary outlook. He further mentioned that the sacred site in Kurukshetra—where Lord Shri Krishna delivered the immortal message of the *Gita*—has been restored and renovated. The Prime Minister is not merely engaged in building a modern India; he is also working ceaselessly to elevate India to the status of a 'Vishwa Guru' (Global Mentor) by following the path illuminated by the great Gurus and sages.
The Chief Minister observed that in Jainism, rigorous asceticism and self-sacrifice hold immense significance. A Jain follower typically attains the status of a *Muni* (monk) after undergoing fourteen years of intense penance. The *Varshi Tap* (annual penance) also occupies a special place within the great ascetic tradition of Jainism; it is a vow dedicated to self-purification, self-restraint, and renunciation. For centuries, Jainism has guided humanity toward the true path of life. Human civilization continues to flourish precisely because it has embraced the values ??and principles established by the *Tirthankaras* and sages. He highlighted that *Sant Gaurav* Piyush Muni Maharaj has, alongside his spiritual practice, made remarkable contributions in diverse fields such as education, healthcare, nation-building, compassion toward all living beings, and nature conservation.
He further stated that the sacred land of Haryana has historically been a stronghold of Jainism. Regions such as Gurugram, Rohtak, Faridabad, Bhiwani, and Hisar were deeply steeped in Jain culture thousands of years ago. The inscriptions and statues of *Tirthankaras* discovered in these areas serve as irrefutable evidence of this historical fact. Even today, Jain temples and *Sthanaks* (places of worship) can be found in every region of the state. The Jain community has made a significant contribution to the development of the state, and the government remains firmly committed to ensuring the respect and advancement of all religions within the state. The government is committed to ensuring that elderly devotees belonging to economically weaker sections are not deprived of pilgrimage due to a lack of funds. With this objective in mind, the government has launched the 'Chief Minister's Pilgrimage Scheme' (*Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana*). Now, on May 5th, a train will be dispatched from Kurukshetra to Nanded Sahib.
Speaking on this occasion, Piyush Muni Ji Maharaj stated that in Indian culture, the day of Akshaya Tritiya is not merely a calendar date; rather, it symbolizes the pinnacle of renunciation, penance, and charity. He remarked that spirituality is not confined solely to material comforts, entertainment, or external appearances. True spirituality lies in awakening the inner light within us and walking the path of selfless service to humanity.
He recounted that Lord Rishabhdev undertook continuous penance for twelve months. At that time, people were unfamiliar with the ascetic way of life (*Muni Charya*) and the proper method of offering alms. Despite being a king, whenever he went out to seek alms, people would offer him silver, pearls, and precious objects—offerings which he would not accept. After a long interval of twelve months, his grandson, Shreyansh Kumar—acting under divine inspiration—offered him *Ikshu Ras* (sugarcane juice) as sustenance, thereby marking the conclusion of his penance (*Parana*).
This incident teaches us the immense value of selfless charity and service performed at the right moment. He explained that, from an astrological perspective as well, the significance of Akshaya Tritiya is unparalleled. While the auspiciousness of other lunar dates waxes and wanes in accordance with the movement of the moon, the spiritual merit accrued on Akshaya Tritiya never diminishes. For this very reason, it is considered the most auspicious occasion for undertaking all propitious endeavors.
Present on this occasion were Indri MLA and Government Chief Whip Ramkumar Kashyap, Karnal MLA Jagmohan Anand, Assandh MLA Yogendra Rana, Piyush Muni Ji Maharaj, Sanyamesh Muni Ji Maharaj, Municipal Corporation Mayor Renu Bala Gupta, District President Praveen Lathar, MP's Representative Kavindra Rana, former Minister Kavita Jain, and—representing the administration—Deputy Commissioner Dr. Anand Kumar Sharma and Superintendent of Police Narendra Bijarniya, among other dignitaries.