Hassan/Mandya/ Mysuru: Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot on Thursday urged people to strive to incorporate Lord Mahavir's principles and messages in their lives.
Speaking at the 2624th Janma Kalyanak Mahothsava of Lord Mahavir Tirthankara at the Chavundaraya Sabha Mantapa in Shravanabelagola, the governor said Lord Mahavir inspired everyone and offered a message of peace.
"Lord Bahubali meditated for spiritual elevation and mental peace. Non-violence brings happiness, sacrifice brings peace, friendship brings progress, and meditation brings achievement — these remain entirely true even today. This message is much needed globally," the governor stated.
Jain Mutt seer Abhinava Charukeerthi Panditacharya Bhattaraka Pattacharyavarya Swami sai Lord Mahaveer Jayanti is being celebrated with enthusiasm across the country. Lord Mahaveer, who was born for the uplift of all living beings, has given great messages to the world through his knowledge.
Minister for planning and statistics, D Sudhakar, said by following the path of non-violence, Mahatma Gandhi brought independence to the country.
Hassan MP Shreyas Patel expressed happiness over the governor's visit to the historic place. He assured support for the development of the area. The MP said efforts would be made to include Shravanabelagola in the PRASAD scheme through Union minister HD Kumaraswamy and requested Sudhakar to submit a proposal from the state govt to the central govt.
MLA CN Balakrishna was present.
Mahavir Jayanti celebrated in Mandya, Mysuru
Vardhaman Mahavir was a great soul who guided society on the path of truth and peace, said DC Kumara.
Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, introduced the world to the profound spiritual philosophy of Jain Dharma, DC said at Mahavir Jayanti celebrations organised by Shri Ananthanatha Swamy Temple (Digambara Temple) on Jain Street. "If we embrace the core teachings and the five vows of Mahavir — truth, non-violence, non-possessiveness, forgiveness and celibacy — we can build a society rooted in peace, harmony and mutual respect," he said.
The DC flagged off the procession, with the adorned idol of Mahaveer placed on a decorated chariot. Accompanied by traditional music and participation from the community, the procession moved through Market Street, Nanda Circle and Mysore Road, before returning to the temple.
Superintendent of police Mallikarjun Baladandi, municipal council president M V Prakash, Jain community president Shanti Prasad Jain, representatives Rakesh Jain, Sridhar Jain, Shashidhar Jain and Padmanabha Jain were also present.
In Mysuru, Sri Sumathi Nath Jain Swetambar Murti Pujak Sangha celebrated Lord Mahaveer Janm Kalyanak with grandeur.
The festivities attracted hundreds of followers who participated in various spiritual and communal activities.
The celebrations began at 7.30am at Mahaveer Bhavan with Abhisheka Puja. Later, a procession comprising over 3,000 participants started at Sri Sumatinath Jain Temple.
Musical bands and religious chants accompanied the procession which passed through Irwin Road and Ashoka Road before reaching at Mahaveer Bhavan, which hosted Dharmasabha and discussions about Lord Mahavir's life teachings.