Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav on Saturday sought the blessings of revered Jain monk Acharya 108 Shri Samay Sagar Ji Maharaj during the Kalash Sthapana ceremony marking the saint's sacred Chaturmas (Varshayog) observance in Bhopal. Describing the occasion as spiritually uplifting, the Chief Minister said the guidance of saints provides the true direction for life and inspires individuals to dedicate themselves to public welfare and righteous living.

The ceremony was organised at Vidyodaya Teerth in Bhopal, where devotees and religious leaders gathered to welcome Acharya Samay Sagar Ji Maharaj for the holy four-month monsoon retreat observed in the Jain tradition.

'Blessed to receive the grace of saints': CM

Addressing the gathering, CM Dr Yadav said it was a matter of immense fortune for the people of Madhya Pradesh to receive the blessings of revered saints.

Calling the day auspicious for the state, the Chief Minister remarked that visiting the spiritual congregation felt as though all major festivals, including Holi and Diwali, had been celebrated together.

He said participating in the ceremonial washing of Acharya's feet was one of the most sacred moments of his life and a blessing he would cherish forever.

The Chief Minister added that Acharya Samay Sagar Ji Maharaj's arrival in the state capital had sanctified the city and inspired devotees to pursue the path of righteousness.

'Saints show humanity the path of liberation,' says CM

Reflecting on the spiritual significance of human life, CM Dr Yadav said that according to Indian philosophy, human birth is attained after passing through 8.4 million life forms. He noted that one path leads individuals towards divinity, while another draws them into suffering.

"The blessings of saints strengthen our journey towards the divine," he said.

The Chief Minister fondly recalled receiving blessings from the late Jain spiritual leader Acharya Vidyasagar Maharaj, saying his sermons had profoundly influenced countless lives. He described those moments as akin to having the darshan of a divine being.

CM Dr Yadav said he felt equally blessed to receive the guidance of Acharya Samay Sagar Ji Maharaj, adding that words were insufficient to express the spiritual experience.

He further observed that India's enduring identity as a spiritual civilisation has been shaped by the contributions of enlightened saints and sages through the centuries.

'Service to society is also a form of spiritual practice'

The Chief Minister said India continues to earn global recognition by following the philosophy of self-restraint and peaceful coexistence, even as many parts of the world remain affected by conflict and power struggles.

He urged people to practise compassion towards all living beings and emphasised the importance of protecting cows, which hold deep religious significance in Hindu tradition.

CM Dr Yadav praised Acharya Samay Sagar Ji Maharaj's efforts to promote self-reliance and social welfare, saying spiritual practice is not confined to meditation alone.

He noted that building hospitals, establishing gaushalas, creating employment through industries and working for the welfare of society are also meaningful forms of sadhana when undertaken with selfless intent.

Chief Minister invites Acharya to special Assembly session

Speaking on governance and education, CM Dr Yadav said the National Education Policy introduced under Prime Minister Narendra Modi goes beyond academic learning and seeks to instill cultural values and moral character among students.

He stressed that communication should reflect indigenous values and encouraged citizens to take pride in India's rich cultural heritage.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the principle that elected representatives are public servants rather than rulers, adding that every decision taken by the government should be aimed at public welfare, equality and empowerment of the poorest sections of society.

During his address, CM Dr Yadav announced that the Madhya Pradesh Government had recently passed the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) Bill in the State Assembly. He extended a formal invitation to Acharya Samay Sagar Ji Maharaj to attend a proposed one-day special session of the Assembly so that legislators could benefit from his spiritual guidance.

Concluding his speech, the Chief Minister reaffirmed his government's commitment to public welfare and said every day of the Chaturmas period should inspire citizens towards selfless service and spiritual growth.

Reflecting on the essence of life, CM Dr Yadav said material possessions ultimately do not accompany a person after death, and that the teachings of saints remind humanity to make meaningful use of every opportunity granted by the Almighty. He added that the spiritual message imparted by Acharya Samay Sagar Ji Maharaj serves as a guiding principle for leading a life rooted in compassion, humility and service.