Vice President inaugurates ‘Namo Ghat’ in Varanasi on the occasion of Dev Deepawali

Varanasi, 15 November– Today, Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, while addressing the grand celebrations of Dev Deepawali in Varanasi, emphasized, “India is the land of Sanatan. Kashi is its center. Sanatan carries the message of world peace. Sanatan encompasses all. Sanatan opposes divisive forces.” The Honorable Vice President was the chief guest at the Dev Deepawali event in Varanasi, where he also inaugurated the “Namo Ghat.” The event was attended by the Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Honorable Anandiben Patel, Chief Minister Shri Yogi Adityanath, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, and other dignitaries.

Describing Sanatan as the soul of India, Shri Dhankhar said, “Sanatan is the national duty, the reflection of Indian identity. Sanatan teaches us to be steadfast, united, and strong. In today’s times, given the challenges we face, it is absolutely essential that we have faith in the core spirit of Sanatan. Sanatan is the soul of India, and any challenge to Sanatan is intolerable.”

Emphasizing the importance of preserving culture and heritage, Shri Dhankhar remarked, “We must remember that our cultural roots shape both our present and our future, and these roots are crucial for keeping us alive and vibrant.”

Praising Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, he said, “Our India is changing. It is changing in unimaginable ways. What was once thought impossible is now happening in the country. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi and the dedication of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Uttar Pradesh, the transformation that is taking place has amazed the world. Whether it is water, land, air, or space, India’s achievements are being praised globally. The preservation and creation of our unique cultural heritage, which is over 5000 years old, is truly remarkable.”

On the importance of Swadeshi awakening, Shri Dhankhar said, “Awaken the spirit of Swadeshi within yourself. Swadeshi has been a key part of our independence. Here, look at the Swadeshi lamp, which symbolizes the soil, oil, and cotton of our country. One lamp lighting many others – this is the awakening and spreading of the Swadeshi spirit. Swadeshi awakening is the path to prosperity. The results of this are self-reliance, protection of foreign currency, and the expansion of domestic employment. Every individual can contribute to this.”

Referring to Samajik Samrasta as an integral part of Indian culture, the Vice President said, “Samajik Samrasta has always been an essential part of our cultural heritage. In this country, no one has ever thought of invading others. We have absorbed invaders into our culture. Our culture inspires us to move forward together. India is the foundation of social harmony and sends a powerful message to the world. What is the greatest religion of humanity? It is Samajik Samrasta. We may have differences among us, but misunderstandings should be kept to a minimum. When we see some individuals not prioritizing national interests, it creates a challenging atmosphere in the country. To remain vigilant against such an environment, we must remain part of the cultural thread that unites us. I urge you all to maintain harmonious dialogues, stay in touch with your family, and take care of your neighbors wherever you live.”