Jain community celebrates Dadagurudev Chadar Mahotsav in Jaisalmer

A three-day Dadagurudev Chadar Mahotsav , one of the prominent religious gatherings of the Jain community, concluded in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan , with large participation from devotees, monks and spiritual leaders from across India and abroad.

Organised by the Dadaguru Shri Jindatt Suri Chadar Mahotsav Committee and Jaisalmer Jain Trust , the annual festival began on March 6 and featured a series of religious discourses, ceremonial honours and spiritual rituals . The event commemorates Dadaguru Shri Jindatt Suri , a revered Jain Acharya believed by followers to have guided devotees toward spiritual discipline, compassion and non-violence.

The Chadar Mahotsav holds deep significance for Jains, as devotees symbolically offer a sacred chadar (cloth) at the shrine of Dadaguru to express faith, seek blessings and reaffirm their commitment to Jain principles such as ahimsa (non-violence), truth and spiritual purity . The festival also serves as a platform for religious teachings and community gatherings , strengthening spiritual ties among followers.

During the concluding ceremony, Acharya Jinmaniprabha Suriwarji Maharaj was honoured with the ‘Rashtra Ratna’ title by Maharashtra minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha in recognition of his contributions to spiritual guidance and religious service. The organising committee also conferred upon him the title of ‘Suri Samrat.’

In another significant development, Upadhyay Pravara Mahendrasagar was formally elevated to the rank of Acharya , marking an important moment in the Jain monastic order. A Ganini Pad ceremony was also held, during which Sadhvi Shubhrada Shriji was bestowed the Ganini title , recognising her leadership among Jain nuns.

According to Padam Tatia , National Secretary of the organising committee, thousands of devotees attended the celebrations. Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagade conveyed his greetings over phone, noting that such events strengthen the spirit of religion and spirituality in the state .

The opening day of the Mahotsav also featured a Dharm Sabha addressed by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat , drawing significant attention from the community. The event concluded with devotional chants and ceremonial honours, marking a historic gathering for the Jain community in Jaisalmer .