Amit Shah Lauds PM Modi for Reviving National Pride Through Sanatan Heritage
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, speaking at the Maha Aarti of Sarveshwar Mahadev at Sursagar Lake in Vadodara on the occasion of Maha Shivratri, credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a profound psychological transformation in India. Shah asserted that over the past 11 years, Modi has successfully removed an "inferiority complex" from the minds of the people, replacing it with a robust self-confidence deeply rooted in Sanatan Dharma.
Reclaiming Cultural and Civilizational Heritage
Addressing a massive gathering, Shah highlighted that under Modi's leadership, India has reclaimed pride in its rich cultural, spiritual, and civilizational heritage. He pointed to several landmark projects as tangible evidence of the government's unwavering commitment to Sanatan traditions.
Key initiatives cited by Shah include:
- The construction of the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya, which he noted ended a wait of over 550 years, transforming Lord Ram's abode from a tent to a magnificent structure at his birthplace.
- The development of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in Varanasi, which Shah described as a symbol of faith's enduring strength, having survived destruction during the Mughal era.
- The restoration of pilgrimage centres such as the Mahakaleshwar Temple, emphasizing the government's dedication to preserving sacred sites.
Symbols of Resilience: Somnath Temple and National Pride
Shah also drew attention to the Somnath Temple in Gujarat, a powerful emblem of resilience. He recounted its repeated reconstruction after multiple destructions, viewing it as a reflection of the indomitable spirit of Sanatan culture. The Home Minister noted that the central government observed "Somnath Swabhiman Varsh" to commemorate 1,000 years since the temple's first attack and developed the Somnath corridor as part of broader efforts to restore national pride and historical consciousness.
Celebrating Local Traditions: Vadodara's Shivji Ki Savari
Turning to local festivities, Shah praised Vadodara's "Shivji Ki Savari" procession, calling it a significant source of pride for the city. He congratulated the organizers for sustaining this vibrant tradition since 1996. Shah particularly admired the gold-plated adornment of the Sarveshwar Mahadev idol, stating that the procession's grandeur is a testament to public devotion and the blessings of saints, showcasing the deep-rooted spiritual fervor in the community.
Ensuring Security for the Grand Event
To ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the Maha Shivratri celebrations, extensive security measures were implemented. Approximately 3,000 police personnel were deployed, supported by teams from the State Reserve Police Force, State Armed Police Force, and the State Disaster Response Force. These arrangements underscored the importance of the event and the government's commitment to maintaining public order during large-scale religious gatherings.
In his address, Amit Shah's message was clear: the Modi government's initiatives have not only restored physical structures but have also rejuvenated the nation's collective psyche, fostering a renewed sense of identity and confidence based on Sanatan principles.
