Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Praises Bhajans as a Cornerstone of Social and Moral Education
Nagpur: In a compelling address at the grand finale of the MP Bhajan Competition, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari declared that bhajans remain one of the most effective mediums for social and moral education. Speaking on Saturday, Gadkari asserted that devotional music not only shapes individuals but also strengthens the very fabric of society, making it an invaluable asset in today's world.
Bhajans as a Catalyst for Personal and Societal Transformation
Organized by the MP Cultural Festival Committee, the event saw Gadkari, who is also the city MP, elaborate on the profound influence of cultural arts. "Music, dance, theatre, and literature deeply influence the human mind, nurturing sensitivity and virtue," he stated. He specifically highlighted bhajans as the premier medium for instilling social values. "Bhajan is also the best medium of social values. It shapes individuals, and such individuals are society's priceless assets," Gadkari emphasized, underscoring the role of devotional songs in fostering a cultured and peaceful community.
Celebrating Excellence in Devotional Music
The concluding ceremony, conceptualized by Gadkari himself, was held at the auditorium of Shikshak Sahakari Bank near Gandhi Sagar Lake. The event was graced by Padma Shri awardee Janardanpant Bothe of Shri Gurudev Seva Mandal, Gurukunj Mozari, as the chief guest, alongside several public representatives and organizing committee members.
The competition showcased remarkable talent across categories:
- Senior Category: Swarswarangini Bhajan Mandal of Hindustan Colony secured first place and was declared the overall winner, receiving Rs25,000 and a memento. Other winners included Sur Surangini Bhajan Mandal (Jayprakash Nagar), Guru Mauli Bhajan Mandal (Old Kailash Nagar), Mahalaxmi Bhajan Mandal (Aradhana Nagar), Swar Kamal Music Academy (Bharat Nagar), Swar Sadhana Bhajan Mandal (Trimurti Nagar), and Swar Vihar Bhajan Mandal (Zenda Chowk).
- Youth Category: Saraswat Bhajani Mandal of Uday Nagar won the top honour, also awarded Rs25,000 and a memento. Other notable winners were Hariom Bhajan Mandal (Mahal), Om Sangeet Yuva Bhajan Mandal, Sargam Sangeet (Old Subhedar), and Rashtrasant Gurudev Mandal.
Steady Growth and Historical Significance
Gadkari noted the competition's impressive growth since its inception in 2016. "In the first year, 123 bhajan mandals participated, and this year 754 mandals took part. As many as 13,270 women participated," he revealed. He expressed particular gratification at this response, which coincided with the 750th birth anniversary year of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj. Reflecting on the legacy of saints like Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Tukdoji Maharaj, Gadkari stated that their teachings continue to guide society, with singing devotional compositions positively influencing both performers and listeners.
Embracing Modern Technology for Traditional Values
Looking to the future, Gadkari stressed the importance of leveraging modern technology to pass on these timeless values to the younger generation. "We digitised the Gajanan Maharaj pothi. Similarly, Gramgeeta and Dnyaneshwari should also be digitised. Only then will the new generation imbibe these values," he urged, highlighting the need to make spiritual texts accessible through digital means.
Honoring a Legacy of Service
During the event, Janardanpant Bothe was felicitated following the announcement of his Padma Shri award. Gadkari, who has known Bothe for four decades, praised his dedicated efforts in spreading the message of Gramgeeta. "It is a matter of pride that he is honoured with the prestigious award. I pray that he completes 100 years," he said, acknowledging Bothe's significant contributions to cultural and spiritual education.
This celebration of bhajans in Nagpur not only highlighted their artistic merit but also reinforced their enduring role in shaping moral character and societal harmony, as championed by leaders like Nitin Gadkari.
