Madhya Pradesh: Indore City To Host Historic Jain Fest

Indore (Madhya Pradesh): The city of Devi Ahilya is set to witness a grand spiritual gathering. The Pattacharya Mahotsav will take place from April 27 to May 2 at Sumatinath Digambar Jainalaya, Godha Estate, Gandhinagar. With preparations underway for the past six months, this six-day celebration will host over 20,000 devotees, 350 monks and nuns, and 5,000 ascetic followers.

Under the guidance of Acharya Vishuddhsagar Maharaj, the event will begin with a majestic Mangal Pravesh (auspicious entry) of the Acharya on April 27 at 6 am, in a grand procession from Mahavir Bagh to Sumatidham. The main event, Pattacharya Pad Pratishtha Sanskar, will be held on April 30 at Deshna Mandap, where around 350 monks will participate.

To manage the summer heat and the massive crowd, a fully air-conditioned mandap with a 20,000-person capacity is being constructed. Four dining halls, each accommodating 25,000 people, and a separate dining area for 5,000 ascetics will also be built. The venue will also include dormitories, air-conditioned cottages, spiritual exhibits, and children’s camps.

One of the major attractions will be a 2,000-drone light show narrating the rich heritage of Jainism, along with projection mapping of scriptures and philosophical themes. Additionally, a national symposium on the epic Jal Bindu Mahakavya and daily discourses by Acharya Vishuddhsagarji will take place.

The event will conclude on May 2 with a Gunanuvad Sabha celebrating the 62nd birth anniversary of Ganacharya Viragsagarji Maharaj. Entry to the event will be strictly through prior registration.

Organisers describe the festival as an unprecedented celebration in Jain history, attracting spiritual followers from across India and abroad.