Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a majestic 77-foot-tall bronze statue of Lord Ram in South Goa on Friday, marking a significant moment in the nation's cultural landscape. The unveiling ceremony was the centerpiece of the 550th-anniversary celebrations of the Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math in Canacona.
During his address, the Prime Minister proclaimed that India is currently witnessing an extraordinary cultural reawakening. He articulated a powerful vision for national development, stating that the path to a Viksit Bharat, or a Developed India, is paved through unity. "When society unites, when every area, every section stands united, the nation takes a big leap," Modi asserted.
A Nation Reviving Its Spiritual Heritage
Prime Minister Modi connected the event in Goa to a larger national movement. He highlighted several landmark projects as evidence of this cultural resurgence, including the restoration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the grand redevelopment of Kashi Vishwanath Dham, and the expansion of Mahakal Mahalok in Ujjain.
"Today's Bharat is advancing its cultural identity with new resolve and self-confidence," he said. The Prime Minister also pointed to initiatives like the Ramayana Circuit, Krishna Circuit, development works at Gaya Ji, and the unprecedented management of the Kumbh Mela as examples of this renewed focus. He emphasized that this collective awakening serves to inspire future generations to remain connected to their cultural and spiritual roots.
Honoring a 550-Year Legacy of Resilience
PM Modi paid rich tribute to the legacy of the Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math, which is observing its 550th year. He noted that throughout its long history, the math has navigated numerous upheavals and societal transformations.
"But even amidst changing times and challenges, it never lost its direction," he remarked. The Prime Minister praised the math for emerging as a guiding center that provided direction to the people, calling this its most significant identity. He specifically lauded its spirit of service, recalling how it supported communities during adverse times, organized refuge in new locations, and established temples and shelters.
Nine Resolutions for a Developed India
Shifting focus to the nation's future, the Prime Minister outlined a set of nine public resolutions essential for realizing the dream of a Viksit Bharat. He declared that this dream can only be fulfilled when citizens consider protecting the environment their fundamental duty.
The nine resolutions presented by PM Modi are:
- Conserve water and save rivers.
- Plant trees, supporting the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign.
- Ensure cleanliness through the 'Swachhta Mission'.
- Adopt 'Swadeshi' and be 'Vocal for Local'.
- Undertake 'Desh Darshan' to learn about different parts of India.
- Adopt natural farming.
- Embrace a healthy lifestyle, including millets and reduced oil consumption.
- Adopt yoga and sports.
- Help the poor in any possible form.
Alongside the grand statue, the Prime Minister also inaugurated a theme park based on the Ramayana, further cementing Goa's connection to this national cultural revival. He reflected on Goa's unique strength, noting that even when its temples, language, and traditions faced challenges, its culture not only preserved its original essence but also rejuvenated itself with time, with institutions like the Partagali Math playing a pivotal role.
PM Modi concluded by stating that India is in a decisive phase, where the energy of its youth, the nation's growing confidence, and its inclination towards cultural roots are collectively shaping a new India.
