The Solution through Dialogue : A Non-Violent Revolution

Swami Devendra Brahmachari

In a world increasingly torn apart by violence, war, and terrorism—from the devastating conflict between Russia and Ukraine to the escalating tensions in the Middle East between Israel and Iran—humanity finds itself at a critical juncture. The ever-looming threat of nuclear war, coupled with a rising tide of hatred, destruction, and ethical decay, has cast long, dark shadows over the foundational values of life, peace, and non-violence. The global atmosphere is thick with despair and division, where distrust is becoming the new normal and compassion is in retreat. Amidst this chaos, an urgent question emerges: Who will be the savior of humanity in such troubled times?

It is in these testing moments that the eternal, serene light of Lord Mahavira becomes not only relevant but vital. His life and teachings offer humanity a luminous path forward—one rooted in ahimsa, truth, restraint, and universal harmony. Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of the Jain tradition, is not merely a revered spiritual figure. He is a timeless guide, a beacon of non-violence and wisdom whose teachings transcend the boundaries of religion, geography, and era. His profound message—“Live and let live”—is not a passive ideal but a powerful, active philosophy that challenges individuals to recognize the sanctity of all life, to reduce harm, and to cultivate compassion in every thought, word, and deed.

In response to the world's escalating crises, the Mahavirayatan Foundation has launched a powerful and transformative initiative—‘Samvad se Samadhan’, which means Solutions through Dialogue. This movement is not just an event or a slogan; it is a moral and spiritual revolution. It is a global call for peace, a resurgence of collective conscience, and a national movement to rekindle the ethical flame that once guided civilizations.

A grand event under this banner will be held on 23rd June 2025 in Mumbai, bringing together voices of wisdom and governance. Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla will grace the occasion as the chief guest, while Maharashtra Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis will be the special guest. But beyond dignitaries and public attention, the true essence of this gathering lies in its mission—to inspire a churning of hearts and minds, to facilitate meaningful dialogue that leads not just to words, but to action, transformation, and unity.

‘Samvad se Samadhan’ is a sacred resolution. It is an invitation for deep reflection, where saints, scholars, leaders, and common citizens come together to confront the most pressing issues of our time—war, terrorism, religious intolerance, moral decline, poverty, and inequality. It demands that we not turn away from these crises, but rather confront them with clarity, courage, and compassion.

At the core of this movement is ahimsa, the principle of non-violence. In Jainism, ahimsa is not limited to refraining from physical violence; it is an all-encompassing way of life that requires mindfulness in every action, every word, and even every intention. It urges us to see the pain of others as our own, to embrace self-restraint over aggression, and to respond to conflict not with retaliation, but with understanding. Ahimsa, in its truest form, is the ultimate expression of love—a love so expansive that it extends to all living beings, regardless of species, class, or belief.

The philosophy of Jainism teaches that real strength lies not in dominating others, but in mastering the self. It is a path of aparigraha (non-possession), anekantavada (respect for multiple perspectives), and satya (truth). In today's world—where freedom often substitutes discipline, where instant gratification replaces sacrifice, and where violence is mistakenly glorified as power—these ancient yet urgent values offer a new blueprint for humanity. Jainism does not propose escapism but calls for responsible living rooted in introspection, compassion, and restraint.

‘Samvad se Samadhan’ is a platform that awakens the dormant moral power within every individual. It calls upon people not just to be spectators of change, but active participants in a transformation that begins within and radiates outward. It teaches that peace is not the absence of war, but the presence of justice, harmony, and understanding. It fosters a sense of interconnectedness where the problems of one are shared by all, and the solutions we create must uplift everyone.

This movement encourages us to build not just informed minds but integrated personalities—human beings who are intelligent yet humble, spiritually anchored yet socially engaged. The world today suffers from fragmented identities and isolated egos, from intellectual arrogance and emotional emptiness. What we need are not just experts, but wise individuals—those who can blend intellect with empathy, strength with gentleness, and progress with morality.

In this time of global crisis, ‘Samvad se Samadhan’ is emerging as a Kalpavriksha, a wish-fulfilling tree that offers shelter to the weary, hope to the hopeless, and strength to the weak. It seeks to unify scattered energies into a force of non-violent resistance against hatred and injustice. This is not just about changing policies or systems—it is about transforming the human heart, one dialogue at a time.

The Jain community, bound by unwavering faith in ahimsa and truth, holds the potential to lead this moral renaissance. But this is not a sectarian endeavor—it is a universal mission. When one voice of truth becomes the voice of millions, it becomes a revolution. Not a revolution of blood, but a revolution of values. A revolution that does not burn cities but ignites hearts. A revolution that does not divide nations but unites humanity.

‘Samvad se Samadhan’ is more than a movement—it is a prayer in action, torchlight in darkness, and a profound affirmation of the human spirit. It is a resurrection of dignity, an embrace of dialogue over destruction, and a commitment to build a future where peace is not a distant dream but a living reality.

As we walk forward on these uncertain roads, let us carry the eternal flame of Mahavira’s teachings in our hearts. With this light, no path will ever be too dark, and no challenge insurmountable. This is our moment to choose—not between war and peace, but between ignorance and awareness, between fear and courage, between death and life. The solution is dialogue. The call is for a non-violent revolution. Let us answer it, together