By Our Staff Reporter
DEHRADUN, 25 Dec: A grand event was held in Lekhak Village on the occasion of the centenary of Bharat Ratna awardee and former Prime Minister, the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee. During the event, the inauguration of the Nalanda Library and Research Centre took place, along with the launch of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Memorial Lecture Series.
Present was Governor of Himachal Pradesh, Shiv Pratap Shukla as the Chief Guest. Rajat Sharma, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of India TV, was the keynote speaker. Notable guests, including Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, CEO of India Flag Foundation Major General Asim Kohli, renowned author Dr Yogendra Nath Sharma ‘Arun’, and Dr Savita Mohan, were also present.
The programme began with the hoisting of a 72-foot-high national flag, installed by the India Flag Foundation in Lekhak Village. This was followed by the unveiling of a statue of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, after which all the dignitaries paid tribute by offering floral tributes.
The inauguration of the Nalanda Library and Research Centre was the main highlight of the event. The library aims to preserve ancient Indian knowledge and provide an ideal platform for modern research and studies. Following this, the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Memorial Lecture Series was launched, which will be held annually.
Keynote speaker Rajat Sharma praised Vajpayee’s oratory skills, literary talent, and inspirational leadership, stating, “He was not just a leader but a visionary and an exceptional speaker. His eloquence, literary brilliance, and inspirational leadership continue to guide us today. Lekhak Village and the Nalanda Library are an extraordinary effort to keep his thoughts alive. I am proud to be a part of this historic event on his 100th birth anniversary.”
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasised, “The formation of Uttarakhand is a result of Atalji’s foresight and determination. Lekhak Village and the Nalanda Library are praiseworthy initiatives in realising his literary and cultural vision. This place is a matter of pride for not just Uttarakhand, but the whole of India.”
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla described the event as the establishment of a “pilgrimage of knowledge” in modern India. He appreciated Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ for his excellent work in fulfilling Vajpayee’s dreams, adding that Lekhak Village will become a hub for literature, culture, and thought, where ideas that guide society will flourish.
Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ shared his personal connection with Vajpayee, saying, “India has always been the centre of knowledge and culture. The Nalanda Library symbolises our ancient tradition of knowledge and will inspire society in modern times. “Atalji was not only a political mentor for me but also a source of literary inspiration. He encouraged me to be active in politics while keeping my commitment to literature. His multifaceted personality and vision continue to guide us today. Lekhak Village and the Atal Memorial Lecture Series are an effort to keep his thoughts alive,” he added.
The goal of Lekhak Village is to provide a platform for writers, poets, and artists to share their thoughts and give direction to society.
