Nation first, religion next: Mahesh Bhagwat applauds Tiranga Ahimsa Rally
Hyderabad, October 2, 2026: Shri Vardhaman Sthanakvasi Jain Shravak Sangh, Greater Hyderabad (Kachiguda), organised the unique Tiranga Ahimsa Car Rally at Jal Vihar, Necklace Road, on Friday morning, bringing together national pride and the universal message of Ahimsa.
As many as 187 beautifully decorated cars, carrying both the Indian National Flag and the Jain religious flag, participated in the 23-km rally.
The rally was flagged off in the presence of community leaders and Chief Conveners Manoj Kothari, Dharmendra Nahar, Prashant Kocheta, Anraj Batna, Nemichand Bukhiya, Suresh Gundecha and Prem Kothari, who oversaw the planning, coordination and execution of the event.
Starting from Jal Vihar, the rally passed through Secretariat, Tank Bund, Ranigunj, Paradise, Begumpet, Somajiguda, Raj Bhavan Road, Khairatabad and Lakdi-ka-pul, before concluding at Jal Vihar.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, senior police officer Mahesh Bhagwat said he had himself studied in a Jain school in Ahmednagar and had a deep appreciation for the values and principles of Jainism.
He applauded the rally for conveying the powerful message of “Nation First, Religion Next.” Recalling the Panch Sutra of Jainism, he said the rally beautifully brought together national pride and religious values, demonstrating how such initiatives could promote harmony, compassion and the greater good of humanity. He congratulated the organisers for bringing together patriotism, Ahimsa and the spirit of peaceful coexistence through the initiative.
The rally was organised to commemorate the birth anniversary of Pujya Acharya Gyanchandra Ji Maharaj, Gandhi Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri and the International Day of Non-Violence.
Though organised by the Jain community, the rally was open to people from different faiths and communities, reflecting the universal values of Ahimsa, peace, compassion and national unity.
The event showcased how Ahimsa and national pride can come together to celebrate unity, harmony and a shared commitment to a better society.
The best-decorated cars were recognised and awarded prizes at the conclusion of the rally.