Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday said that pilgrimage serve as a powerful medium for strengthening social harmony and preserving India’s rich cultural traditions.
Saini was addressing a gathering on the occasion of the departure of a special train from Kurukshetra to Somnath, carrying more than 1,100 devotees.
He said that keeping in view the significance of pilgrimage centres, unprecedented efforts are being made by the government for the preservation and promotion of India’s religious and cultural heritage.
Several sacred sites have been restored and rejuvenated in the recent years.
Saini further added that through the development of pilgrimage destinations across the country — the Char Dham Project, PRASHAD Scheme and initiatives aimed at preserving India’s cultural heritage — the nation is reconnecting with its civilisational roots. This, he said, is a defining period in New India where development and heritage are progressing together.
Saini further mentioned that the world today faces numerous challenges and uncertainties. However, India’s ‘sanatan’ culture continues to offer the values of balance, compassion and humanity.
He said Lord Shiva teaches that one can absorb poison and still offer nectar to the society, transforming adversity into strength for the welfare of others.
He said that Somnath is a symbol of enduring faith, teaching humanity that the power of creation is always greater than the forces of destruction.
The CM said the history of the Somnath Temple stands as a saga of India’s resilience and unwavering faith. The temple was attacked, damaged and plundered several times throughout history, yet each time it rose again with greater strength and determination.
Saini also paid obeisance at the Sarveshwar Mahadev Temple at Brahma Sarovar.
