Honourable Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gol

From the late 1980s, when I started my social and political life as a volunteer, I used to stand at the back during such events, looking after the arrangements. At that time, I felt that staying awake after meals was a challenge. Later, when I got the opportunity to sit in the back rows, I realized staying awake was even more difficult. As I moved to the front rows, the challenge increased further, and when I finally reached the stage, I understood that not only did I have to stay awake, but I also had to keep others engaged. At this special event of Lokmanthan, as we formally gather for the closing ceremony, I am truly honored to share this platform with revered saints and intellectuals. Today, we are privileged to have the highly respected Swami Mithilesh Nandini Sharan ji from Ayodhya, who has dedicated his life to upholding Sanatan Dharma and preserving India’s cultural heritage. We are also fortunate to have the esteemed Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat ji and
other dignitaries present here today. This remarkable blend of spiritual and intellectual leadership at this event is a moment of pride for every one of us.

India’s Intellectual and Cultural Heritage

For thousands of years, India has been a center of knowledge, science, and cultural repository. India’s intellectual excellence, scientific advancements, spiritual wisdom, and medical practices have, in fact, attracted scholars and seekers from across the world. However, history teaches us that greatness comes at a price. Due to envy and greed, invaders repeatedly attacked India to destroy its well-woven cultural fabric and imposed alien ideologies.

Despite facing continuous cultural and physical attacks for over thousands of years, India’s Sanatan culture has withstood and continues to thrive. Many civilizations collapsed under such assaults, but India endured.

Why did India survive while others perished?

The answer lies in our deep-rooted spiritual consciousness. Our people remained bound to
Dharma and our culture were nourished by sages, saints, and spiritual leaders, who selflessly dedicated their lives to preserving our traditions. Today, we have Swami ji (Acharya Mithilesh Nandini Sharan) among us as a representative of that sacred lineage.

Post-Independence Challenges

Even after independence, the era that followed should have been a golden age for India. However, due to the colonial mindset of our leadership, India continued to struggle. For nearly six to seven decades, India’s Sanatan culture faced ideological attacks under foreign influences. During this time, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) played a critical role in protecting and reviving India’s cultural identity.

Today, as Param Pujya Sarsanghchalak ji stands among us, we recognize the sacrifices and dedication of those who fought to keep India’s traditions alive. This closing session of Lokmanthan is not just an ending—it is the beginning of a new journey.

A Renewed Commitment to India’s Cultural Identity

On this platform, we have the Honorable Finance Minister Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman ji, Union Minister for Coal and Mines Shri G. Kishan Reddy ji, National Convener of Prajna Pravah Shri J. Nandakumar ji, National Organizing Secretary of Sanskar Bharati Shri Abhijit Gokhale ji, respected Srinivas ji, and other distinguished thinkers and scholars.

I bow in reverence to all of you!

This gathering marks the beginning of a new ideological and cultural resurgence—one that will restore Sanatan values and India’s rightful place in the world. India is witnessing a moment of global recognition. The “Idea of India” is no longer limited to a mere political or economic vision. Instead, it embodies a holistic philosophy that integrates cultural wisdom with global well-being. This event, Lokmanthan, is an ongoing sacred, intellectual and spiritual movement

India’s Global Ascent

Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji often says that no challenge is too big if society collectively takes responsibility in addressing it. We are currently experiencing a historic phase where India’s influence is growing worldwide. The world is recognizing India’s spiritual and cultural strength alongside its economic and strategic power. A recent
An article by a Nobel laureate highlighted that India is on the path to becoming a globally respected leader. While India is excelling economically and in technology, its greatest strength lies in its cultural and spiritual values. This cultural strength will once again establish India as “Vishwaguru” (World Leader).

The Role of Lokamanthan in India’s Future

The Lokmanthan movement will play a significant role in this journey. Over the years, Prajna Pravah has connected Indian consciousness with our cultural roots, ensuring that our heritage is preserved for future generations. For the past two generations, we have witnessed a decline in cultural consciousness due to weakening family structures and external ideological influences.

However, initiatives like this event are reviving the essence of joint families, cultural traditions, and spiritual values. The presence of so many intellectuals and cultural leaders today gives me confidence that we are heading towards a stronger, more unified India. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji’s leadership, India is progressing materially, economically, and strategically.

At the same time, we must ensure that India’s cultural and spiritual renaissance continues. The world acknowledges India’s military and economic power, but true leadership will come when India asserts its spiritual and cultural wisdom globally. This requires a continuous and collective effort, which is why Lokmanthan is not just an event—it is a long-term mission with a clear, defined vision.

Final Words

As we conclude this gathering, let us carry forward the inspiring words of our leaders and apply them in our daily lives. When we meet again at the next Lokmanthan in two years, let us ensure that we can climb even higher—not just in numbers, but in terms of influence, thought, and action. Our civilization has survived for 5,000 years despite countless challenges. Now, as we reclaim our rightful place, let us bury the divisions and embrace unity (Abheda). With these thoughts, I express my sincere gratitude to all of you.
Bharat Mata Ki Jai!

“The world is recognizing India’s spiritual and cultural strength alongside its economic and strategic power.”

– Shri Gajendra Singh Shekawat (Honorable Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, GoI)