Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Haveri MP, Basavaraj Bommai, delivered a profound address on the core principles of Jainism, emphasizing its deep-rooted connection with nature and the supreme duty of non-violence. The event, held on Saturday at the Rajani auditorium in Haveri, was the valedictory ceremony of the Grand Shri Siddhachakra Mahamandala Vidhan Mahotsava and Pinchi Parivartana Programme.
Jainism: A Philosophy of Breath and Coexistence
In his speech, Bommai articulated that Jainism is a religion that thrives in tandem with nature, offering guidance on fundamental acts like breathing. He explained that the Jain teaching instructs followers to breathe in a manner that causes no harm to even the smallest living organism. "If one follows the practices of Jainism, it is possible to become the finest among human beings," Bommai stated. He reflected on life as a continuous struggle from birth to death, noting that humans often remain oblivious to the divine effort behind every breath they take.
Ahimsa as the Supreme Dharma and the Power of Siddhachakra
The former CM placed paramount importance on Ahimsa (non-violence), describing it as the supreme dharma. He elaborated that Jainism's ethos grants all creatures—birds, insects, and other beings—the freedom to live according to their nature. Bommai then connected this philosophy to the essence of the Siddhachakra, a revered Jain diagram. "The essence of Siddhachakra lies in bringing together the human Siddhachakra for human welfare, which then transforms into a powerful force for the benefit of humanity," he noted, suggesting that aligned human energy correctly benefits all of humankind.
Lessons from Mahavira's Renunciation
Bommai drew inspiration from the life of Bhagwan Mahavira, recounting his renunciation of an entire kingdom. He narrated an anecdote where Mahavira, after a lame man received a piece of his diamond-studded garment, discarded the rest when it got caught on a thorny bush, deeming it unnecessary. This act symbolized supreme detachment. "When there is no attachment to anything, that itself is supreme power—no one can disturb such a person," Bommai observed. He drew a parallel, stating that the presiding seer, Swamiji, is a living embodiment of Mahavira's principles, whose inner nectar is beyond ordinary understanding.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Charya Shiromani Munishri 108 Viditasagar Maharaj and Swastishri Bhattakalanka Bhattarakar Swamiji of Swadi Digambar Jain Math, Sonda. The event underscored the timeless relevance of Jain teachings in contemporary life, promoting a message of harmony, minimalism, and reverence for all life forms.
