Forgiveness Means Choosing Reform Over Revenge and Dialogue Over Hatred: Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan

Vice President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan addressed the 'Mahaparv Kshmapana Samaroh-2026' organized by the Bhagwan Mahavir Smarak Samiti and the Jain Mahasabha Delhi at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. On this occasion, he described forgiveness, friendship, non-violence, and inner purification as universal values, stating that forgiveness does not mean accepting injustice or compromising on the truth; rather, it means choosing reform over revenge, dialogue over hatred, and reconciliation over enmity.

Regarding non-violence, the Vice President clarified that non-violence is not merely the absence of physical violence, but the absence of violence in thought, word, and deed. He stated that the teachings of Lord Mahavira pave the way for peace, dialogue, coexistence, and compassion in the world. Shri Radhakrishnan mentioned that the depth with which the Jain tradition has transformed forgiveness into a spiritual discipline is extremely relevant for today's humanity, and that Kshmapana is not just a ritual, but an opportunity for a change of heart.

Discussing the relationship between Tamil Nadu and Jainism, the Vice President noted that Jainism has made significant contributions to Tamil literature and culture. He highlighted the role of Jain scholars and monks in classical Tamil literature, as well as the ancient Jain temples and education centers located in Tamil Nadu. He stated that the Jain philosophy of friendship toward all living beings is aligned with India's ethos of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'.

Speaking on the vision of 'Viksit Bharat @ 2047', Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan said that development should not be limited only to economic prosperity, infrastructure, and technological progress. He emphasized that a truly developed India must have trust among citizens, values in families, character in youth, and compassion in society, which would give meaningful substance to the vision of 'Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi' (Development as well as Heritage).

During the program, the Vice President honored Shri K. C. Jain with the 'Jain Samaj Ratna Award'. The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Governor of Punjab, Shri Gulab Chand Kataria, President of Bhagwan Mahavir Smarak Samiti Shri Kanhaiya Lal Jain, President of Jain Mahasabha Delhi Shri Dinesh Doshi, Acharya Shri Vishuddh Sagarji Muniraj, Shri Vipin Jain, Munishri Udit Kumar Ji, Munishri Tirth Nirvan Vijay Ji, and Upadhyay Shri Ravinder Muni Ji.