Union Minister Calls on Youth to Champion Indian Culture in Haridwar Address
Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat delivered a powerful message in Haridwar on Sunday. He urged the younger generation to take active responsibility for both driving national development and safeguarding India's rich cultural heritage.
Shekhawat described Indian culture as the nation's unique identity and its fundamental inner strength. He spoke during the Dhwaj Vandan Samaroh, a flag salutation ceremony organized by Dev Sanskriti University.
Historical Preservation and Modern Responsibility
The minister highlighted the historical context of cultural preservation. He noted that foreign invaders made repeated attempts over centuries to erase India's civilization and heritage.
"Our ancestors preserved this cultural legacy through remarkable courage, penance, and sacrifice," Shekhawat stated. "This legacy now falls to the younger generation to protect and nurture."
Shekhawat pointed specifically to the colonial period. He explained that systematic efforts during British rule aimed to sever Indian society from its cultural roots.
"They reshaped our history and education system for this purpose," he said. "This deliberate distortion led to a significant decline in cultural self-esteem among Indians."
Beyond Material Development
The minister presented a comprehensive vision of national progress. He argued that India's development cannot focus solely on material achievements.
"True development remains incomplete without cultural awareness, strong moral values, and spiritual balance," Shekhawat emphasized. "These elements form the foundation of our national character."
He described the All India Gayatri Parivar centenary celebrations as a significant confluence. The event brought together service, spiritual practice, and cultural values.
"This celebration marks a milestone," Shekhawat declared. "It will help shape a new era for our nation."
Chief Minister Dhami Honors Spiritual Legacy
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami also addressed the gathering. He framed the centenary celebrations as a national expression of gratitude.
"This event represents a tangible and emotional thank you from the nation," Dhami stated. "We honor Mata Bhagwati Devi Sharma for her ascetic life, selfless service, and unwavering devotion."
The Chief Minister offered a broader definition of the Gayatri Parivar's significance. He described it as more than just an organizational entity.
"The Gayatri Parivar transcends organizational boundaries," Dhami explained. "It represents a flow of consciousness that moves from individuals to society, ultimately uplifting the entire nation."
Distinguished Gathering and Honors
The event attracted numerous prominent figures from various fields. Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj attended alongside Minister of State Vinay Ruhela.
Other notable speakers included Sudarshan News Managing Director Suresh Chavhanke and former Enforcement Directorate Director Rajeshwar Singh.
Dr. Chinmay Pandya presided over an honors ceremony during the program. He presented special awards to several distinguished personalities alongside other dignitaries.
The honorees received symbolic gifts representing spiritual and cultural values:
- Judge Parvinder Singh
- Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla
- Swami Sampurnanand Ji
- Swami Velu Bapu Ji
- K Narayan Rao
- Ramesh Bhatt
- Dinesh Kandpal
- Acharya Dayashankar Vidyalankar
Each recipient received the symbol of Shantikunj, a vessel containing Ganga water, a Rudraksha rosary, and spiritual literature. These items carried deep cultural and religious significance for the occasion.
The Haridwar event successfully blended cultural celebration with serious discussion about national identity. Leaders from politics and spirituality united to emphasize cultural preservation as essential for India's future development.
