PM Modi Inaugurates Samrat Samprati Museum in Ahmedabad, Stresses Peace Amid Global Turmoil
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the newly constructed Samrat Samprati Museum in Ahmedabad on Tuesday, declaring that it sends a powerful message of peace and non-violence at a time when the world is "engulfed in flames of instability and unrest." The Prime Minister delivered these remarks at the Jain Aaradhana Kendra in Koba, where the museum is located, highlighting its significance for both India and humanity.
Museum's Legacy and Global Relevance
Given the current global scenario, the legacy and message of this museum hold immense significance, PM Modi stated. "They are significant not just for India but for humanity." The museum, named after Samrat Samprati—the grandson of Emperor Ashoka and a patron of Jainism—symbolizes the connection between philosophy and governance. Modi elaborated that rulers like Samrat Samprati viewed power as a form of service and spiritual practice, promoting principles such as ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), asteya (non-stealing), and aparigraha (non-possessiveness) from their thrones.
Criticism of Previous Governments and Preservation Efforts
The Prime Minister criticized previous administrations for their failure to preserve valuable manuscripts, noting that this should have been a national priority after Independence. "Regrettably, due to a colonial mindset, no attention was paid to this vital cause," he said. Modi emphasized that his government is rectifying these mistakes through initiatives like the Gyan Bharatam Mission, which focuses on digitizing, scientifically preserving, and archiving manuscripts. He also mentioned that individuals are contributing by uploading manuscripts from their personal collections.
Museum Features and Cultural Significance
The Samrat Samprati Museum, financially supported by the UNM Foundation of the Torrent Group—which will also manage and maintain it—features seven galleries showcasing rare artefacts, ancient manuscripts, and sculptures. According to a release from the Jain Aradhana Kendra, the museum offers a glimpse into India's spiritual and cultural legacy, displaying centuries-old Jain art, including stone and metal idols, illustrated manuscripts, coins, and traditional artefacts. Modern audio-visual technology enhances the visitor experience, creating an immersive environment.
PM Modi highlighted that the museum reflects India's core strength of diversity and unity, as it includes scriptures from various religions and philosophies. "This is something that could happen only in India," he added. He also lamented the loss of knowledge at ancient learning centers like Nalanda and Takshashila due to foreign invasions, praising the efforts of those who protected remaining manuscripts through generations.
Broader Cultural Initiatives and Political Commentary
Modi outlined the government's large-scale efforts to promote India's cultural heritage globally, including temple restoration, pilgrimage site development, and the promotion of traditional knowledge systems like ayurveda and yoga. He cited projects such as the maritime museum at Lothal and plans for a national museum in Delhi to present India's history comprehensively.
Taking a swipe at previous regimes, the Prime Minister accused them of allowing political considerations to influence historical presentations. "You may recall that in the past, such endeavours were often viewed through a political lens. Everything revolved around setting a specific narrative for a particular political family," he said, in an apparent reference to the Gandhi-Nehru family. Modi asserted that his government has ended this mindset, working with the vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' (Together with All, Development for All).
Call for Global Engagement and Progress
The Prime Minister called for encouraging students and researchers from around the world to visit the museum and spread India's message of non-violence and knowledge globally. "When we rise above personal aspirations and work for the nation, the pace of progress increases," he stressed. The inauguration event was attended by Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and other dignitaries. Torrent Group chairman emeritus Sudhir Mehta and monks from Shree Mahavir Jain Aaradhana Kendra guided PM Modi through the museum's galleries.
