Chitradurga
Emphasizing the relevance of non-violence in today’s conflict-ridden world, Additional Deputy Commissioner B.T. Kumaraswamy stated that lasting peace can only be achieved by following the principles of non-violence and harmony preached by Lord Mahavir.
The statement was made during the Mahavir Jayanti celebration आयोजित at the Deputy Commissioner’s office auditorium. The event was jointly organized by the district administration, Zilla Panchayat, Department of Kannada and Culture, and the City Municipal Council. Floral tributes were offered to Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, before the formal proceedings began.
Addressing the gathering, B. T. Kumaraswamy highlighted the growing atmosphere of conflict and war across the globe. He noted that Mahavir’s message of live and let live is more relevant than ever in ensuring peaceful coexistence. He stressed that in an era marked by self-interest and violence, adopting values of mutual respect and compassion is essential.
He also pointed out that Mahavir’s teachings had a profound influence on great leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and B. R. Ambedkar. India’s independence, he said, stands as a testament to the power of truth and non-violence.
City Development Authority Chairman M.K. Tajpeer, in his address, remarked that the principle of non-violence is more powerful than any weapon in the world. He added that in the current climate of global unrest, Mahavir’s path offers the only viable solution for achieving peace.
A special lecture was delivered by Dr. Naveen Maskal, who elaborated on the humanistic values embedded in Jain philosophy. He emphasized that the teachings of non-violence and universal welfare remain highly relevant in addressing modern-day conflicts. Referring to classical Kannada literature, he noted the contributions of Jain poets such as Pampa, Ponna, Ranna, Nagachandra, and Nagavarma in spreading ethical and spiritual values.
The program was attended by several dignitaries, including Municipal Commissioner S. Lakshmi, Assistant Director of the Department of Kannada and Culture Dr. B.M. Gurunath, and Jain community leaders such as Prithviraj, P. Ramesh Kumar, Shantilalji, and Premchand Jain.
The event concluded with cultural performances, including devotional singing by B. Saraswati and her team, reinforcing the message of peace and unity inspired by Mahavir’s teachings.
