CM pays tribute to Swami Shraddhanand on 99th Balidan Diwas
By Our Staff Reporter
Haridwar, 23 Dec: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the ‘Rashtrabhakt Mahayagya’ organised to mark the 99th Balidan Diwas of Swami Shraddhanand Maharaj at the Old Gurukul Kangri here today. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the CM paid tribute to Swami Shraddhanand, mentioning his efforts and struggles for equality and his contributions to India’s independence and Vedic education.
Dhami reminded that Swami Shraddhanand’s movement for independence and Vedic education in the early 20th century significantly undermined the British colonial establishment. Inspired by his ideals, thousands from other religions embraced Sanatan Dharma, reinforcing its principles. He also stressed on the “monumental role” of Gurukul Kangri, founded by Swami Shradhhanand in 1902 in Haridwar as a major pilar of Vedic Education and Nation-Building. The CM added that this Gurukul has grown into a vast banyan tree, spreading the light of Vedic education across the globe. It stands as a centre of education and a strong pillar for nation-building and the propagation of Vedic culture.
The CM also elaborated on the Gurukul’s comprehensive educational philosophy, which includes teachings from sages like Gautam, Kapil, Kanada, and Jaimini, along with a spirit of nationalism. He lauded the university for producing thousands of students who have gained global recognition in the fields of education, religion, and social service, guided by the principle of world brotherhood.
He also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in realising the vision of “One Earth, One Family, One Future” on global platforms, rooted in the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. The CM also reminded the gathering of India’s role during the pandemic in providing COVID vaccines to over 100 countries and PM Modi’s efforts to elevate Yoga and Ayurveda to global prominence.
The CM also outlined the state government’s initiatives to preserve and promote Sanatan culture. He highlighted significant progress in the reconstruction of Kedarnath, the master plan for reconstruction of Badrinath Dham, and the Manaskhand Mandir Mala Mission.
He also announced the establishment of a ‘Centre for Hindu Studies’ at Doon University, where research on Hindu civilisation and culture would be undertaken. The centre would focus on innovative studies and the teaching of various aspects of Hinduism, contributing to India’s aspiration to reclaim its status as a “Vishwaguru” through the promotion of Sanatan culture and Vedic education.
Among those present on the occasion included Union Water Power Minister CR Patil, Haridwar MP Trivendra Singh Rawat, Chancellor Satyapal Malik, Roorkee MLA Pradeep Batra, District Panchayat President Kiran Chaudhary, former MLAs Swami Yatishwaranand and Kunwar Pranav Champion, actor Vivek Oberoi, District Magistrate Karmendra Singh and SSP Pramod Dobhal amongst others.
