India Post Launches Special Cover to Celebrate 'Vishwa Navkar Mahamantra Diwas'

Ahmedabad : In a momentous celebration of spiritual unity and world peace, India Post unveiled a Special Cover on the occasion of the 'Vishwa Navkar Mahamantra Diwas,' which was organized by the Jain International Trade Organization (JITO) at GMDC Ground in Ahmedabad. This event, attended by over 25,000 participants, highlighted the global significance of the Navkar Mantra, a symbol of Jainism’s deep-rooted philosophy of non-violence and peace.

The release ceremony saw Gujarat’s Chief Minister, Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel, unveil the Special Cover with Cancellation, which features a unique stamp commemorating the 2800th Nirvan Kalyanak of Bhagwan Parshvanath. The first copy of the Special Cover was presented by Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav, the Postmaster General of North Gujarat Region, to the Chief Minister, marking the historic event.

The Special Cover showcases the revered Navkar Mantra in its entirety:
"Namo Arihantanam, Namo Siddhanam, Namo Aayariyanam, Namo Uvajjayanam, Namo Loe Savvasahunam, Eso Panch Namukaaro, Savva Paavappanaassano, Mangalaanam Cha Savvesim, Padhmam Havai Mangalam." This mantra, central to Jain philosophy, serves as a spiritual guide for peace and harmony and has been a part of Jain rituals for centuries.

During the event, more than 25,000 people participated in a collective chanting of the Navkar Mantra from 8:01 AM to 9:36 AM, resonating with the power of unity and devotion. The event also saw the virtual presence of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, who delivered an inspiring message from Science Bhavan in New Delhi. In his address, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of the Navkar Mantra as not just a spiritual practice but as a guiding principle for societal well-being. "Navkar Mantra is not just a mantra, it is the center of our faith, the essence of our life. It’s importance is not only spiritual but practical, guiding everyone, from the individual to society," said the Prime Minister. He also encouraged the gathering to take nine vows for peace and self-improvement.

The event was graced by prominent figures from the Jain community and government, including Home Minister of Gujarat, Shri Harsh Sanghvi, who joined virtually, as well as Shri Sudhir Mehta, Chairman of the Torrent Group, and Shri Rishabh Patel, Chairman of JITO Ahmedabad. Saints, Sadhvis, Acharyas, and Gachchadhipatis from various Jain sects, including Shvetambara, Digambar, Terapanthi, and Sthanakvasi, were also present to mark the occasion.

Postmaster General Shri Krishna Kumar Yadav highlighted the significance of the special cover as an enduring cultural symbol. "The Special Cover on 'Vishwa Navkar Mahamantra Diwas' will play a pivotal role in connecting the younger generation with their rich cultural heritage. It will become a significant part of philately, showcasing the values of the Jain community and spreading the message of peace and non-violence globally," said Shri Yadav.

The release of this Special Cover by India Post is not only a tribute to the Jain faith but also a means to raise awareness about the philosophy of peace, tolerance, and non-violence that has been central to Jainism for millennia. As the cover circulates globally, it is expected to spread the message of the Navkar Mantra far and wide, ensuring its relevance for generations to come.

This event marks a major step forward in promoting the values of Jainism through the use of philatelic art, symbolizing the power of spirituality in fostering global peace and harmony.