Varanasi: In a celebration of cultural and educational achievements, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi graced the prize distribution ceremony of Sansad Sanskrit Pratiyogita at Swatantra Sabhagar, BHU, Varanasi, today. The event saw the Prime Minister’s active involvement in recognizing and rewarding winners of various competitions, as well as the unveiling of a booklet on Kashi Sansad Pratiyogita and a coffee table book.
The ceremony included the awarding of winners in Kashi Sansad Gyan Pratiyogita, Kashi Sansad Photography Pratiyogita, and Kashi Sansad Sanskrit Pratiyogita. Additionally, the Prime Minister distributed books, uniform sets, music instruments, and merit scholarships to Sanskrit students of Varanasi, underlining the government’s commitment to the promotion of education and cultural activities.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi expressed his delight in being among the young scholars, likening the experience to a dip in the Ganga of knowledge. He lauded the efforts of the youth in strengthening the identity of the ancient city of Kashi, emphasizing that their contributions are a source of pride for the nation.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the progress made by Kashi in the last decade, attributing it to the divine will of Lord Mahadev. He highlighted the festival of development that Kashi is celebrating today, mentioning various projects worth crores of rupees that have transformed the city. The Prime Minister spoke about the rejuvenation of Kashi and the role of Vishwanath Dham in taking India towards a bright future.
“Kashi is not just a center of faith, but a vibrant center of India’s eternal consciousness,” remarked Prime Minister Modi. He emphasized that India’s ancient prestige was rooted not only in economic prowess but also in cultural, spiritual, and social richness. The Prime Minister illustrated this through Kashi’s diverse cultural and spiritual history, mentioning its association with Shiva, Buddha, Jain Tirthankars, and Aadi Shankaracharya.
Highlighting the cosmopolitan allure of Kashi, the Prime Minister noted that the city’s diversity gives rise to new ideals and ideas, fostering the possibility of progress. He reiterated his belief that Vishwanath Dham will provide a decisive direction and take India to a bright future, emphasizing its role in scholarly declarations and the revival of justice traditions.
Prime Minister Modi spoke about the efforts to promote Sanskrit education through initiatives like Kashi Sansad Sanskrit Pratiyogita and Kashi Sansad Gyan Pratiyogita. He praised the scholars for their research on ancient knowledge from the perspective of modern science and highlighted Kashi’s role in promoting social inclusion through cultural events.
In his concluding remarks, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that the youth emerging from Kashi will become flag bearers of Indian knowledge, tradition, and culture worldwide. He affirmed his commitment to serving the people of Kashi and encouraged continued efforts towards the city’s holistic development.
Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath, and Ministers of the Government of Uttar Pradesh were also present at the event.
