Srinagar, Aug 17 (IANS) J&K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday laid the foundation stone for a series of initiatives dedicated to heritage and cultural preservation in Anantnag district.
The L-G visited the Shri Ramakrishna Mahasammelan Ashram in Anantnag on the occasion of Samadhi Pratishtha Divas, Nag Panchami Mahotsav and the Purnahuti of the Yajna.
He expressed reverence for the Ashram, which has preserved the wisdom of sages, and paid homage to Swami Ashokanand Ji Maharaj.
Recalling the Maharaj’s visionary resolve in 1937, Sinha said the Ashram became a vibrant spiritual centre that carried forward the eternal message of Sanatana Dharma while serving society’s real needs.
“His legacy of service, discipline and dedication continues to inspire generations. When Swami Ashokanand Ji Maharaj left his mortal body in 1971, he left behind a living tradition of service, sadhana and dedication that can still be felt in every activity of this Ashram,” the L-G said.
He emphasised that Indian civilisation has always seen spirituality and nature as inseparable, quoting the Isha Upanishad to remind the gathering that the Divine pervades all creation.
In the context of global climate challenges, he urged youth to embrace responsibility towards rivers, forests, animals and all living beings, ensuring sustainable development in harmony with nature.
Highlighting new initiatives at the Ashram, including the construction of a Yatri Niwas, renovation work, a dining complex, and the expansion of the Yajnashala, the L-G said these projects would embody faith transformed into action.
He stressed that spirituality in Indian culture means responsibility towards the world, carried out through selfless service.
Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita, he underlined that when action becomes service and service becomes dedication, ordinary work becomes sadhana.
He praised the Ashram’s affiliation with the Swami Vivekananda Kendra, Kanyakumari, which serves on the principle of “Atmano Mokshartham Jagad Hitaya Cha”, for one’s own liberation and for the welfare of the world.
He urged youth to draw inspiration from Swami Vivekananda’s message of self‑confidence, fearlessness, and selfless service, reminding them that true strength lies within and that every individual makes their own destiny.
Reaffirming India’s philosophy of unity in diversity, the L-G said India’s strength lies in respecting diversity while moving forward together.
“The message of Sarva Dharma Samabhava (equal respect for all religions) has been India’s gift to the world,” he said.
He added that Swami Vivekananda revealed the secret of true success and happiness, saying that the truly rich person serves without expecting reward and acts with a selfless spirit.
–IANS
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