New Delhi [India], May 1 (HBTV): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while attending the World Navkar Mahamantra Diwas in New Delhi on Wednesday, highlighted how Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s nine resolutions embody the ideals of Jainism’s 24 tirthankaras (preachers of dharma).

‘On the occasion of Navkar Mahamantra, you heard PM Modi on how Navkar Mahamantra can be a way to success in one's professional life. On this, he gave us nine resolutions so that the expressions and ideals of 24 tirthankaras be with the people of India... today we have gotten that from the resolutions by PM Modi,’ the Chief Minister said.

Earlier, while speaking at the World Navkar Mahamantra Diwas, Prime Minister Modi urged people to adopt nine resolutions — to save water, plant a tree in the name of one's mother, maintain cleanliness, be vocal for local, adopt natural farming, adopt a healthy lifestyle, practice sports and yoga, and help the poor.

The Uttar Pradesh CM also highlighted the deep connection of Jainism with the land of Ayodhya, stating that Lord Rishabdev (also known as Rishabhanatha), one of the tirthankaras, was the first king of Ayodhya.

‘We need to remember that Uttar Pradesh is an important land of Jain tirthankaras. God Rishabdev was the first king of Ayodhya,’ he said.

Further emphasising the region’s historical importance, he added, ‘In Ayodhya, five tirthankaras were born, and in Varanasi, there were four tirthankaras. From there itself, they got on the path of liberation.’

Echoing the Prime Minister’s appeal, he reiterated: ‘Wherever we are sitting, we should take 9 sankalps (resolutions) with us.’

PM Modi also underscored the contribution of Jain literature to India’s intellectual and spiritual heritage.

‘The literature of Jainism is the backbone of India’s intellectual grandeur. Preserving this knowledge is our duty,’ he said.

He further highlighted the government's decision to accord classical language status to Prakrit and Pali, two ancient Indian languages closely tied to Jain and Buddhist traditions.

‘That is why we have granted Classical Language status to Prakrit and Pali,’ the Prime Minister said, emphasising their cultural and scholarly value.

Recalling his own early spiritual exposure to Jain teachings, PM Modi said, ‘I was born in Gujarat, where the influence of Jainism is visible in every street. Since childhood, I have been in the company of Jain Acharyas,’ adding that chanting the Navkar Mantra is a moment of deep reverence as ‘we bow to the Panch Parmeshthi.'

(ANI)