Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Thursday that saints in India have played a crucial role in preserving the country's culture, unity, and spreading knowledge.
Speaking at the 'First Samadhi Mahotsav' of Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji Mahamuniraj in Dongargarh, Chhattisgarh, Shah praised Jain Acharyas and monks for working to unite the nation.
Shah highlighted how after India gained independence, the country and government were increasingly influenced by Western ideas. During this time, Jain seer Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj stood as the sole saint protecting India's culture, religion, language, and traditions, he said.
“The saint tradition in India is rich. Whenever the country needed protection, saints have played an important role in preserving our culture. During the colonial period, saints kept the spirit of national unity alive through devotion,” Shah added.
Shah further stated that after independence, as Western ideas began to influence the country, Acharya Vidyasagar was the only saint who remained firm in upholding India's values, culture, religion, and languages.
Describing Acharya Vidyasagar as a 'yugpurush' (a person of great importance in history), Shah said he was not only a saint but also a visionary who inspired many to care for cottage industries and promote local employment.
He also emphasised traditional practices like 'godhan' (cattle farming), charkha (spinning wheel), and handloom.
Shah mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s promotion of these ideas could be linked to Acharya Vidyasagar's lasting influence.
Acharya Vidyasagar passed away on February 18 last year at Chandragiri Teerth in Dongargarh after performing 'sallekhana', a Jain practice of fasting until death for spiritual purification.
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