Renowned Jain spiritual leader Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj, known for his profound wisdom and spiritual teachings, has passed away after undertaking ‘sallekhna’, a Jain religious practice involving voluntary fasting unto death for spiritual purification. The revered seer breathed his last on Sunday at Chandragiri Teerth in Dongargarh, located in Chhattisgarh’s Rajnandgaon district.
Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj had been residing at the teerth in Dongargarh for the past six months, where he had been unwell for several days. In accordance with Jain tradition, he embarked on the practice of sallekhna, voluntarily abstaining from food and liquids as a means of spiritual purification. His dedication to this ascetic practice culminated in his attainment of Samadhi at 2:35 am.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt condolences, describing Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj’s demise as an “irreparable loss” for the nation. PM Modi highlighted the seer’s invaluable contributions to spiritual awakening and emphasized the unforgettable nature of their meeting at the Chandragiri Jain Temple in Chhattisgarh last year.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai also mourned the passing of the revered seer, acknowledging his dynamic knowledge and exemplary service to society. Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj’s legacy of sacrifice and penance, which enriched not only Chhattisgarh but the entire nation and beyond, will be remembered for generations to come.
In honor of Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj, a procession was scheduled to take place at 1 pm on Sunday to allow people to pay their respects. The final rites were set to be conducted at Chandragiri Teerth, marking the conclusion of a life dedicated to spiritual enlightenment and service to humanity.
Sources By Agencies
