Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi shared his remarks during the Shikshapatri Dwishatabdi Mahotsav via video message today. Speaking on the occasion, Shri Modi highlighted that today all are witnessing a special occasion marking 200 years of Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s Shikshapatri. He emphasized that the bicentenary celebration is a moment of fortune for everyone to be part of this sacred occasion. Underlining that in this pious period he bows to all the saints, Shri Modi extended his greetings to crores of followers of Bhagwan Swaminarayan on the bicentenary festival.
Highlighting that India has always been dedicated to the path of Jnanyoga, Shri Modi remarked that the thousands of years old Vedas continue to inspire even today. He underlined that the saints and seers, in accordance with the needs of their times, developed systems in the light of the Vedas. PM noted that from the Vedas came the Upanishads, from the Upanishads came the Puranas, and through shruti, smriti, kathavachan, and singing, the tradition has remained powerful.
PM emphasized that, in different eras, great saints, seers, and thinkers added new chapters to this tradition as per the requirements of the time. He stated that everyone knows the life episodes of Bhagwan Swaminarayan were deeply connected with public education and public service. He remarked that this experience was explained in simple words, and through the Shikshapatri, Bhagwan Swaminarayan gave invaluable guidance for life.
Prime Minister underlined that the bicentenary celebration provides an opportunity to assess what new lessons are being learned from the Shikshapatri and how its ideals are being lived in daily life. He remarked that the life of Bhagwan Swaminarayan was a symbol of both spiritual practice and service. The Prime Minister emphasized that today his followers are running numerous campaigns dedicated to society, the nation, and humanity. He noted that projects related to education and health, commitments for farmers’ welfare, and initiatives connected with water are truly commendable. Shri Modi stated that seeing saints continuously expand their responsibilities towards social service is deeply inspiring.
Underlining that the country is advancing mass movements such as Swadeshi and Swachhata, Shri Modi said the resonance of the mantra “Vocal for Local” is reaching every household. He remarked that when these efforts are connected with such campaigns, the bicentenary celebration of the Shikshapatri will become even more unforgettable. He pointed out that the nation has launched the Gyan Bharatam Mission for the preservation of ancient manuscripts and urged all enlightened organizations to extend greater cooperation in this work. Shri Modi stressed that India’s ancient knowledge and its identity must be preserved, and with the cooperation of such organizations, the success of the Gyan Bharatam Mission will reach new heights.
Pointing out that the nation is currently celebrating the grand cultural festival of Somnath Swabhiman Parv, Shri Modi remarked that from the first destruction of the Somnath temple till now, the country is commemorating a thousand-year journey through this festival. The Prime Minister urged everyone to join this celebration and to carry its objectives to the masses. He concluded by expressing confidence that through the efforts of the followers, India’s development journey will continue to receive the blessings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan.
