Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday called for embracing forgiveness, non-violence, compassion and reconciliation, saying these values hold profound relevance for India and the world amid growing conflict and violence.
Addressing the Mahaparva Kshamapana Ceremony–2026, organised by the Bhagwan Mahavir Memorial Committee and Jain Mahasabha Delhi at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, V-P Radhakrishnan described the occasion as a celebration of universal values of forgiveness, friendship, non-violence and inner purification.
The Vice President said the Jain tradition’s transformation of forgiveness into a spiritual discipline has deep relevance for contemporary society. He emphasised that Kshamapana is not merely a ritual but an opportunity for transformation of the human heart.
“Forgiveness means choosing reform over revenge, dialogue over hatred and reconciliation over hostility,” V-P Radhakrishnan said. He added that forgiveness does not mean accepting injustice or compromising with truth.
He said the spirit of Pratikraman can encourage individuals and families to acknowledge their mistakes, resolve conflicts and work towards reconciliation.
Ahimsa extends beyond physical violence
Highlighting the teachings of Bhagwan Mahavira, V-P Radhakrishnan said Ahimsa should not be understood merely as the absence of physical violence.
“Ahimsa means absence of violence in thought, word and deed,” he said, adding that Bhagwan Mahavira showed humanity the path of inner victory.
The Vice President said true strength lies in conquering anger, intolerance and revenge, rather than allowing these emotions to dictate human conduct.
He also highlighted Jain philosophy’s message of friendship towards all living beings and enmity towards none, saying it resonates with India’s civilisational ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”
In a world witnessing conflict and violence, he said, the teachings of Bhagwan Mahavira can provide a path towards peace, dialogue, coexistence and compassion.
Jainism’s contribution to Tamil literature and culture
V-P Radhakrishnan also highlighted the historical connection between Tamil Nadu and Jainism, noting the religion’s significant contribution to Tamil literature and culture.
He recalled the role played by Jain scholars and monks in the development of classical Tamil literature and pointed to the presence of ancient Jain temples and centres of learning across Tamil Nadu.
Values essential to Viksit Bharat
Referring to the vision of Viksit Bharat @ 2047, the Vice President said India’s development must extend beyond economic prosperity, modern infrastructure and technological advancement.
“A truly developed India must have trust among citizens, values in families, character among youth and compassion in society,” he said.
He linked this approach to the vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”, emphasising that India’s progress must remain rooted in its civilisational values and heritage.
V-P Radhakrishnan called upon citizens to nurture humility, compassion, service, unity and responsibility while contributing to the building of a developed India.
During the ceremony, he also presented the Jain Samaj Ratna Award to K. C. Jain.
Those present at the event included Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria; Bhagwan Mahavir Memorial Committee President Kanhaiya Lal Jain; Jain Mahasabha Delhi President Dinesh Doshi; Acharya Shri Visuddh Sagarji Muniraj; Vipin Jain, General Secretary, Shree Jain Tarun Samaj Bhagwan Mahaveer Memorial Samiti; Munishri Udit Kumar Ji; Munishri Tirth Nirvaan Vijay Ji; and Upadhyay Shri Ravinder Muni Ji.
