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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday addressed the Shikshapatri Dwishatabdi Mahotsav through a video message, marking 200 years of Lord Swaminarayan's Shikshapatri, and described the bicentenary as a moment of pride and spiritual significance for the nation.
Highlighting India's civilisational heritage, the Prime Minister said the country has always remained committed to the path of Jnanyoga, with the Vedas continuing to inspire humanity even after thousands of years. He noted that India's spiritual tradition evolved over time through the Upanishads, Puranas and other forms of oral and written transmission, shaped by saints and seers in line with the needs of different eras. PM Modi said Lord Swaminarayan's life was deeply rooted in public education and service. He underlined that the Shikshapatri offered simple yet profound guidance for righteous living and continues to remain relevant in everyday life. "Lord Swaminarayan's life was a symbol of both spiritual practice and service," the Prime Minister said, adding that his followers today are actively engaged in initiatives dedicated to society, the nation and humanity. The Prime Minister praised the Swaminarayan tradition for its contributions in areas such as education, healthcare, farmers' welfare and water conservation, calling these efforts a source of inspiration. He said the bicentenary celebrations provide an opportunity to reflect on the teachings of the Shikshapatri and assess how its ideals are being practised in contemporary times. Linking spiritual values with national movements, PM Modi said campaigns such as Swadeshi, Swachhata and "Vocal for Local," are resonating across the country. He added that aligning such initiatives with the Shikshapatri bicentenary would make the celebrations even more meaningful. The Prime Minister also urged greater participation in the Gyan Bharatam Mission, launched to preserve India's ancient manuscripts. He called upon enlightened organisations and spiritual institutions to cooperate in safeguarding the nation's ancient knowledge systems, saying this heritage forms a core part of India's identity. PM Modi further referred to the ongoing Somnath Swabhiman Parv, noting that it commemorates a thousand-year journey from the first destruction of the Somnath temple to the present day. He appealed to people to join the celebrations and spread awareness about its significance. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that with the continued efforts of Lord Swaminarayan's followers, India's development journey would keep receiving spiritual blessings and inspiration. (ANI)
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