Milestones of an
Extraordinary Life
International honors, historic ceremonies, and world records
International honors, historic ceremonies, and world records
On March 11, 2023, history was made at the Mahalaxmi Race Course in Mumbai when Naypadmasagar Ji Maharaj was conferred the title of "Acharya" โ the highest honor bestowed upon Jain monks for their spiritual knowledge and extraordinary contributions to society.
The event was attended by approximately 50,000 people, including 1,008 sadhus and sadhvis, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Ministers from Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, judges, ministers, and devotees from numerous countries.
The title was bestowed by Rashtrasant Padmasagar Surishwarji Maharaj, recognizing decades of spiritual leadership and service. The evening celebrations at the NSCI Dome featured prominent singers performing in tribute.
On July 12, 2017, Aacharya Shri achieved a historic milestone. He became the first Jain spiritual leader to be awarded atop the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.
This prestigious recognition acknowledged his exceptional spiritual leadership and his tireless efforts in spreading Ahimsa and compassion on a global stage. The fact that this recognition was given at one of the world's most iconic monuments underscored the universal appeal of his message.
Conferred the Acharya title at Mahalaxmi Race Course, Mumbai โ attended by 50,000+ people and international dignitaries.
116,942 participants from 188 cities, 26 states, and 22 countries โ World Book of Records.
First Jain leader ever honored atop the Eiffel Tower in Paris for global advocacy of Ahimsa.
Established JITO, which grew to 100+ chapters across 22+ countries in less than two decades.
Walked barefoot across India โ from Gujarat to Kolkata, Nepal to Tamil Nadu โ an unimaginable achievement.
Prime Minister Modi praised JITO's contributions to India's self-reliance vision.
"These honors belong not to me, but to the eternal spirit of Ahimsa. I am merely a humble servant carrying the torch that the Tirthankaras lit thousands of years ago."