Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Saturday said that the Centre's decision to accord 'Classical Language' status to Pali and Prakrit has played a significant role in preserving the invaluable literary heritage of Jainism, as he highlighted the contribution during the inauguration of the newly built Shri Nitya Shanti Bhavan at Shela in Ahmedabad.
Addressing the gathering, Patel said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had undertaken a "monumental task" of safeguarding priceless Jain scriptures by granting Classical Language status to Pali and Prakrit. Referring to the recently inaugurated Samprati Museum at Koba in Gandhinagar, he said the initiative reflected the Centre's commitment to preserving 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," he said.
Patel was speaking at the inauguration ceremony of Shri Nitya Shanti Bhavan, held under the guidance of Rashtrasant Acharyadev Padmasagarsurishwar Maharaja. Before the ceremony, he offered prayers at the Jin Chaitya housing the ancient idol of Munisuvratswami Bhagwan and prayed for the well-being and prosperity of the people of Gujarat.
Minister of State for Urban Development, Darshana Vaghela, was also present. Emphasising the importance of spirituality in contemporary society, CM Patel 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 the integration of spirituality with modernity could create a new path for public welfare.
Expressing confidence in the role of the new complex, 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."
Highlighting the Jain community's long tradition of public service and compassion towards all living beings, the Chief Minister noted that "it had upheld these values for thousands of years". He also urged people to adopt water conservation, cleanliness, 'Vocal for Local' and natural farming as part of their daily lives, describing them as public commitments advocated by the Prime Minister.
In his address, Rashtrasant Padmasagarsurishwar Maharaja drew upon historical examples and ancient teachings to explain the values of charity, selfless service and compassion. He encouraged people to use their wealth for the welfare of the poor and the needy through sacrifice, dedication and service as a means of freeing themselves from the bonds of karma.
The newly inaugurated Shri Nitya Shanti Bhavan 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. Leaders of various Jain organisations and a large number of devotees attended the ceremony.