In a recent event in Jammu, Gujarat’s Governor Acharya Devvrat spoke on the significance of the Vedas in addressing global issues. This event celebrated the 200th birth anniversary of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati and the 150th anniversary of the Arya Samaj. Governor Devvrat said that the world is engulfed in terrorism, conflict, and war, stressing that the Vedas hold effective solutions to these frightening problems.
The grand celebration took place at Baba Jitto Auditorium, part of the Sher-e-Kashmir University. During his speech, the Governor expressed pride in the ongoing series of programmes related to the Arya Samaj, initiated under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. These events have seen participation from notable figures like President Droupadi Murmu and Home Minister Amit Shah, inspiring a renewed energy among followers of the Vedic path.
Governor Devvrat highlighted that when Maharshi Dayanand was born, India’s population was about 330 million. He launched a movement against rigid customs and superstitions, which had shrouded the Vedas in dust. His efforts led to the emergence of a new generation of thinkers, including Guru Datt Vidyarthi and Swami Shraddhanand.
Today, the Governor noted, there is a mindset that believes only its own opinion is correct, which leads to global conflicts. He reaffirmed that the Vedas are meant for the welfare of all humanity and that Maharshi Dayanand was a key figure in introducing these teachings.
He expressed concern that while knowledge of the Vedas exists, its dissemination is lacking. If this knowledge does not reach future generations, it will lose its meaning. He began his address with a famous Vedic mantra, emphasising its relevance even in today’s challenging times.
The period from 1900 to independence was termed a golden age for the Arya Samaj, with Vedic thought widely spread across North India. The Governor mentioned that all major leaders of the independence movement were inspired by Maharshi Dayanand and the Arya Samaj.
However, he lamented the resurgence of superstitions and false beliefs in society, stating that this increases the responsibility on everyone to combat such issues. He acknowledged the contributions of social reformers like Mahatma Hansraj and Lala Lajpat Rai, who dedicated their lives to educating the new generation.
The Governor also shared the inspiring story of Swami Shraddhanand, who re-established Vedic Gurukuls after reading Satyarth Prakash. He noted that Swami Shraddhanand faced ridicule and challenges but never wavered from his mission.
He concluded with a call to action, urging the followers of the Arya Samaj to advance the path of the Vedas and illuminate society with their teachings. He suggested that organisations like Arya Veer Dal could pave the way for the revival of the Arya Samaj.
In recognition of significant contributions to natural agriculture and resource management, Dr Vivek Manohar Arya from Sher-e-Kashmir University was honoured by the Governor during this event. The Arya Pratinidhi Sabha, led by Narendra Trehan, organised the programme, with active participation from various members and dignitaries.
This event highlighted the ongoing efforts to promote Vedic teachings and their relevance in modern society, aiming for a brighter future through education and social reform.