RSS Chief Releases Souvenir Token on Dada Gurudev Shri Jindutt Suri Ji

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief, Shri Mohan Bhagwat, released the commemorative souvenir token and postage stamps dedicated to Dada Gurudev Shri Jindutt Suri Ji today, on March 6, 2026.

The release took place at the historic Sonar Fort in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, marking the commencement of the Chadar Mahotsav in the esteemed presence of Khartargach Acharya Shri Jinmaniprabh Surishwar Ji Maharaj.

This three-day religious celebration is particularly remarkable as it is being held after a staggering 871 years, drawing thousands of devotees, Jain monks, and visitors from across India. The festival represents a unique confluence of faith, history, and spiritual unity in the enchanting desert city of Jaisalmer. The President of the Jaisalmer Jain Trust, Shri Mahendra Singh Bhansali, emphasized that the Chadar Mahotsav symbolizes profound reverence for Dada Gurudev.

One of the major attractions of the festival is the display of Gurudev’s ancient garments—chadar, chola patta, and muhapatti—which have been meticulously preserved for nearly nine centuries. Shri Bhansali noted that this is the first time in the history of the Jain community that such a Chadar Mahotsav has been organized.

Providing historical context, Shri Bhansali explained that according to tradition, when Dada Gurudev attained samadhi in Ajmer in Vikram Samvat 1211, his body was cremated but his sacred garments astonishingly remained completely intact in the flames. These garments were subsequently taken to Patan in Gujarat, where they were preserved for many years.

Their eventual arrival in Jaisalmer is linked with a remarkable historical episode. Approximately 145 years ago, the city faced a severe epidemic that caused widespread fear among its residents. During this difficult period, the Maharawal of Jaisalmer arranged for the sacred garments of Dada Gurudev to be brought from Patan to the city. It is believed that soon after the revered garments arrived, the epidemic subsided and normalcy gradually returned to Jaisalmer. Since then, these sacred relics have been carefully preserved in the historic Gyan Bhandar of Jaisalmer. Consequently, the Chadar Mahotsav is regarded not only as a religious observance but also as a celebration of a centuries-old spiritual heritage deeply embedded in the faith and traditions of the Jain community.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Mohan Bhagwat emphasized that many global conflicts arise because people fail to recognize the fundamental unity of humanity. He noted that despite the creation of institutions such as the League of Nations after the First World War and the United Nations following the Second World War to maintain global peace, conflicts continue to persist.

Bhagwat said that India’s ancient wisdom teaches the principle of oneness and harmony, which offers solutions to many of the world’s problems. He urged society to rise above discrimination and work together in the protection of dharma, adding that such values could help India emerge as a Vishwaguru and contribute to creating a more harmonious world.

Referring to Acharya Jinadattasuri, Bhagwat said the Jain monk’s teachings have endured through centuries and reflect the enduring strength of Sanatan culture. He added that during times of foreign invasions and internal divisions, Acharya Jinadattasuri helped restore unity and guide society through crises.

Thanks to Mr. Sudhir Lunawat for sharing the images and details for this blog.

The commemorative souvenir token released on the occasion has been issued in two variants—Pure Silver (99.9) weighing 20 grams with a diameter of 35 mm, and Nickel Silver (comprising 60% Copper, 20% Nickel, and 20% Zinc) weighing 32 grams with a diameter of 44 mm. These tokens have been minted by the India Government Mint, Mumbai, and are available through the Jaisalmer Jain Trust.