Vidhi Kasliwal’s ‘Vidyoday’ to be showcased at the prestigious Parliament of the World’s Religions

Filmmaker Vidhi Kasliwal’s ‘Vidyoday’, a biographical documentary that captures the very essence of the most exalted Digambar (Sky-clad) Jain monk Acharya Vidyasagar’s divine quest, will be screened at Parliament of the World’s Religions. It is the same prestigious platform, the first edition of which in 1893, saw Swami Vivekananda make a call for religious tolerance.

The film will be showcased as part of the summit of the 8th Parliament of the World’s Religions, which is being hosted virtually for the first time this year. To be held October 16-18, it will feature programs, presentations and religious observances from all across the globe.

Fitting right into its 2021 theme of ‘Opening our Hearts to the World: Compassion in Action’, Vidyoday showcases the conduct of Acharya Vidyasagar who observes the Jain philosophy that is based on the pillars of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Kshama (compassion). He follows these tenets to the highest possible degree which extend not only to fellow monks and humans, but to all living creatures whether animal or insect including stationary one-sensed beings such as rocks and plants.

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This captivating documentary traces the pursuit of Acharya Vidyasagar, who has, for over 50 years, practiced sacrifice, simplicity, peace, and non-violence in thoughts, actions, and deeds. The film chronicles the journey of this Muni (philosopher monk) from his childhood to his monasticism and his elevation to Acharyahood (leadership), along with his teachings, his scholastic and literary works, his Tapasya (penance) and his contributions there on to the Jain community and society.

Says Vidhi Kasliwal who has directed the documentary and also produced it under her banner Landmarc Films, “Acharya Vidyasagar ji has made a huge contribution to Jainism, which is one of India’s most ancient religions. It is only fitting that his frugal yet fulfilling life is shown to the world through Parliament of the World’s Religions, which celebrates religious and spiritual communities who are working towards building a peaceful and sustainable world.”

“I am overwhelmed that ‘Vidyoday’, our humble attempt to narrate his story while throwing light on the various facets of Jainism, will be screened on the same platform where Swami Vivekananda left an indelible mark. India is a rich cauldron of spiritualism, and we must keep celebrating that,” Kasliwal adds.