Rishabhayan-2 Concludes in Mumbai with Historic Global Participation

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], January 3: History was created on Mumbai’s soil as the three-day international conference Rishabhayan-2—“Forerunner and Architect of Indian Culture”—concluded in a grand and unprecedented manner at Borivali. Dedicated to the life, philosophy, and civilisational contributions of Bhagwan Rishabhdev, the conference drew scholars, saints, thinkers, educationists, and students from India and abroad, and was witnessed by an audience exceeding one lakh people.

The programme commenced on Friday, 19 December, with a majestic procession that set the tone for the historic gathering. The conference was inspired and guided by Acharya Yashovarmasurishwarji Maharaj, Gachchhadhipati of the Jain community, whose blessings marked the auspicious beginning of the event. In the revered presence of saints from all four Jain traditions—including more than 15 Acharyas and over 400 sadhus and sadhvis—the conference was formally inaugurated by Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

Releasing the scholarly publication “Rishabhayan”, the Chief Minister remarked on the enduring relevance of Bhagwan Rishabhdev’s teachings in modern society. Eminent saints such as Vijay Somtirth, Dandi Swami Jitendra Saraswatiji, and Shantigiri Maharaj offered profound insights into the universal philosophy of Rishabhdev. Saints representing Sikh, Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions collectively acknowledged King Rishabhdev’s foundational role in Indian civilisation, reaffirming his status as its pioneer and architect.

During the inauguration, Dr N. P. Singh, Executive Chairman of the Indian Education Board, expressed strong interest in integrating ancient values with contemporary education systems.

Civilisational Discourse and Academic Milestones

A landmark initiative was announced to distribute the booklet “Rishabh Jeevan”, chronicling the life of Bhagwan Rishabhdev, to every school and educational institution across India. The publication was prepared under the guidance of Acharya Yashovarmasurishwarji Maharaj and Acharya Bhagyayashasurishwarji.

Scholarly sessions explored the origins of civilisation and the pride behind the name “Bharat,” presenting historical and archaeological evidence that established Bhagwan Rishabhdev as the true initiator of Indian civilisation. Scholars cited texts including the Shrimad Bhagavata Purana, reaffirming that the nation derives its name from Chakravarti Emperor Bharat, the eldest son of Rishabhdev.

Experts highlighted how modern concepts such as entrepreneurship, skill development, and sustainable living were embedded thousands of years ago in the arts of Asi, Masi, and Kasi, imparted by Rishabhdev. In a startup-focused session, leading industry figures including Niranjan Hiranandani, Hitesh Doshi, Uttam Jain, and Krishna Rana interacted with students, bridging ancient wisdom with contemporary enterprise.

Rare Manuscripts and Global Academic Collaboration

On the second day, national and international researchers presented papers on the Brahmi script, ancient mathematics, the 72 masculine arts, and the 64 feminine skills from the era of Rishabhdev. With the cooperation of 1,111 Jain Sanghs under the Mumbai Jain Sangh Organisation, a historic public unveiling of manuscripts dating back 200–500 years and 1,111 rare texts was held.

The event was attended by Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of India, and Chandrakant Dada Patil. One of the conference’s most significant academic outcomes was the signing of memoranda of understanding with leading institutions, including Nalanda University, South Asian University, and the Archaeological Survey of India. Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi extended an official invitation to host Rishabhayan-3 in Gujarat in 2026.

Thought Leadership and Cultural Immersion

Eminent scholars such as Padma Shri Kumarpal Desai delivered powerful reflections on Rishabhdev’s role in shaping human civilisation, including a creative monologue portraying King Rishabh. Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain presented legal and historical perspectives on Rishabhdev’s system of justice.

The conference also featured immersive exhibitions with advanced digital models showcasing ancient vocational arts, fine arts, and heritage. Stalls displaying ancient handicrafts, women-led home industries, and youth-driven art startups attracted massive public interest.

A Mission Beyond a Conference

On the concluding day, Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar stated that Rishabhayan is not merely a festival but a mission to reconnect future generations with their roots. The event was organised by Labdhi Vikram Janseva Trust in collaboration with Naginadas Khandwala College.

More than 100 research papers were presented across two dedicated halls, including the Rishabh Swadhyay Peeth, forming the foundation for the forthcoming Rishabhayan-2 volume. With over one lakh attendees, the conference emphatically demonstrated that India’s ancient culture remains the bedrock of a progressive and enlightened future.

PNN Lifestyle