Shri Jishnu Dev Varma
Honourable Governor of Telangana
Greetings and a warm welcome!
Namaskar, Pranam!
Honourable President of India, respected Dr. Mohan Bhagwat ji, Sarsanghchalak of RSS, Honourable Union Minister of Coal and Mines, Shri G. Kishan Reddy ji, Honourable Minister of Panchayat Raj and Women & Child Development, Government of Telangana, Smt. Seethakka, respected T. Hanuman Chowdary ji, Working President and the Reception Committee of Lokmanthan 2024, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, a very good morning to all of you!
Cultural Tapestry of Our Universe – Bharat
It is a profound privilege to address this esteemed gathering at the inaugural session of the fourth edition of Lokmanthan, Bhagyanagar 2024-a colloquium that celebrates the essence of Bharat—the indomitable spirit of India.
Today, as we embark on this journey of Lok-Jana Drishti (People’s Perspective), we are presented with an unparalleled opportunity to explore the richness of India’s cultural ethos and timeless traditions. Bharat, the cradle of one of the world’s oldest civilisations, has always been a beacon of diversity, harmony, and intellectual prowess.
In the words of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, “It is the unity of culture that is the basis of our nationalism.”
Unity in Diversity – Our Forte
This unity, deeply embedded in our civilisational ethos, is not just an idea but a living reality. manifested in the lives of ordinary people across our vast nation. India is a land where diversity thrives in every sphere of language, religion, cuisine, and art forms—yet beneath this vibrant diversity lies the unifying thread of Bharatiyata (Indian identity). As we stand here in Hyderabad, a city that exemplifies the confluence of cultures and traditions, we must recognise and celebrate the integral role that each region—including the Northeast—plays in shaping the collective identity of Bharat.
Foreign Invasion and Distorted Divisions
History is replete with examples of robust intellectual traditions-from the dialogues of the Upanishads to the Shastras of ancient scholars. Debate and discussion have been the cornerstones of our civilisational growth. It is heartening to see Lokmanthan 2024 providing a platform for thinkers, artists, and academics to come together and deliberate on our shared heritage.
Over the centuries, our nation has endured foreign invasions and colonisation, which not only targeted our land and people but also distorted our cultural and intellectual fabric. Artificial divisions such as tribal vs. non-tribal and rural vs. urban were imposed to splinter our unity. As Swami Vivekananda famously said, “The longest night seems to be passing away. The soul of the nation is awakening.”
Time to Rediscover Our Spirit
This edition of Lokmanthan is particularly exciting, as it brings together our diverse streams of thought. Each session here is a testament to the richness of our traditions and the need to integrate them into our contemporary context. Let us remember the words of the Rig Veda, which say, “Let us move forward together, speak together, and let our minds live in harmony.”
Our youth must be encouraged to embrace rational inquiry and be inspired by our indigenous knowledge systems. By doing so, they will be better equipped to counter divisive forces and uphold the ideals of unity, harmony, and universal brotherhood.
Closing Remarks
In conclusion, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the organisers of Lokmanthan 2024 for creating such a meaningful platform, especially Shri Nandakumar ji for his efforts. Let this programme strengthen the bonds that unite us and pave the way for a brighter and more harmonious future.
Thank you!
Dhanyavad, Namaskar!
“It is heartening to see Lokmanthan 2024 providing a platform for thinkers, artists, and academics to come together and deliberate on our shared heritage …. Let this programme strengthen the bonds that unite us and pave the way for a brighter and more harmonious future.”
– Shri Jishnu Dev Varma
Honourable Governor of Telangana
