Centenary Celebration of Acharya Vidyanand Maharaj – Coin and Stamp Release

In honor of the birth centenary of Acharya Vidyanand Maharaj, the Government of India will release a ₹100 commemorative coin and a ₹5 special postage stamp. The official release will be carried out by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi on June 28 during the Acharya Padarohan Diwas celebration.

Born on April 22, 1925, in Shedbal, Karnataka, Surendra (his birth name) embraced Jaineshwari Diksha at the age of 21, becoming a Kshullak on April 15, 1946. Later, on July 25, 1963, in Delhi, he accepted Muni Diksha from Acharya Shri Deshbhushanji Maharaj.

Acharya Vidyanand Maharaj was known for spreading the message of truth and non-violence across India—from South to North. His deep spiritual and cultural ties with Indore are remembered fondly, especially his stay during Chaturmas and his instrumental role in establishing the Gommatgiri Tirth Kshetra in Indore.

In 1986, the Panchkalyanak Mahamahotsav of Gommatgiri was celebrated in his presence along with Acharya Vimalsagarji Maharaj and several other saints. On November 6, 1979, Acharya Vidyanand Maharaj was also conferred the prestigious title of "Siddhantachakravarti" in Indore by the Chaturvidh Sangh.

The Jain community nationwide has expressed immense joy at the government's decision to honor Acharya Vidyanand Maharaj with this commemorative release. The announcement was shared by Jain community spokesperson Rajesh Jain Daddu.