In a powerful spiritual moment that resonated across continents, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a collective chanting of the Navkar Mahamantra at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on April 9, just a day before Mahavir Jayanti. The event, titled ‘Navkar Mahamantra Divas’, saw participation from representatives of over 108 countries, marking it as a unique global spiritual initiative. The Prime Minister described the occasion as a celebration of unity, peace, and inner awakening through one of Jainism’s most revered chants.
The Navkar Mahamantra, central to Jain philosophy, encapsulates values such as non-violence, humility, and self-purification. Addressing the gathering, PM Narendra Modi emphasized the mantra’s power to transcend boundaries and foster a collective sense of humanity. “This is not just a chant—it is the core of our belief system,” he said, adding that the Navkar Mahamantra teaches self-discipline, illuminates the path of right conduct, and encourages individuals to seek the enemy within rather than without.
A spiritual experience rooted in culture
The Prime Minister shared personal reflections on his deep-rooted connection with Jain traditions. Recalling his upbringing in Gujarat, a state where Jain influence is prominent, he spoke about his early experiences with Jain Acharyas and the spiritual values he imbibed. Narendra Modi recounted a similar chanting ceremony he had attended years ago in Bengaluru, describing how the same spiritual energy was felt once again at the Delhi event.
He underlined that chanting the Navkar Mahamantra is a tribute to 108 divine virtues and an act of meditating upon the values that form the cornerstone of an ethical life. “The mantra reminds us to walk the path illuminated by our soul, guided by meditation and action,” the Prime Minister said.
Celebrating Navkar Mahamantra Divas
Observed on the eve of Mahavir Jayanti, Navkar Mahamantra Divas is not merely a religious event but a global call for compassion, spiritual unity, and ethical living. It pays homage to the enlightened beings of Jainism and encourages reflection on the universal principles of peace and self-awareness.
