Lucknow: A unique religious gathering was witnessed at the Jain temple in Indira Nagar, Lucknow, on the auspicious occasion of Raksha Bandhan, where 251 couples collectively performed the traditional ‘Padgahan’ of Acharya Shri Subal Sagar Ji Maharaj and his monastic order and offered them food as part of the Jain tradition of ‘Aahar Daan’.
Acharya Subal Sagar Maharaj and his Jain monastic group are currently staying at the temple in Indira Nagar for their Chaturmas period. The participation of 251 couples in the collective Padgahan was described by members of the Jain community as a historic and spiritually significant occasion.
According to Jain community general secretary Abhishek Jain, Raksha Bandhan holds special religious and historical significance in the Jain tradition. It is associated with the revered account of Mahamuni Vishnu Kumar, who is believed to have protected Acharya Akampan Dev and 700 Digambar monks by removing the obstacles and persecution they faced.
To commemorate this tradition, Jain devotees observe the occasion by offering food to monks and seeking spiritual merit through acts of devotion and charity.
‘True Raksha Bandhan Means Protecting Dharma and Self-Discipline’
Addressing devotees, Acharya Shri Subal Sagar Ji Maharaj said Raksha Bandhan should not be viewed merely as a festival of tying a sacred thread, but as a symbol of self-protection, compassion and affection.
He recalled the traditional account of Mahamuni Vishnu Kumar protecting 700 Digambar monks and said that the deeper meaning of Raksha Bandhan lies in protecting one’s self-discipline, culture and religious values.
Acharya Subal Sagar emphasised the spiritual significance of Aahar Daan, saying that offering food to monks is considered a meritorious act in Jain philosophy and encourages values of sacrifice, devotion and dedication.
He said that disciplined charity and a spirit of compassion and affection on the sacred occasion contribute to the spiritual welfare of an individual.
Several members of the Jain community, including Anurodh Jain, P.K. Jain, Manisha Jain, Shipra Jain, Rita Jain, Sudeep Jain, Ayush, Divya, Sanjeev and Baiji, among others, were present during the programme.
The collective participation of the 251 couples turned the Raksha Bandhan observance into a significant religious gathering, reflecting the community’s devotion to Jain spiritual traditions and the practice of Aahar Daan.
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