Overview
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the International Arya Mahasammelan 2025 in New Delhi, marking the 150th anniversary of the Arya Samaj. The Prime Minister emphasized the deep connection between the Arya Samaj and the Vedic identity of the nation, highlighting its role in upholding Indianness and inspiring freedom fighters.
Key Highlights
- Prime Minister's Address: Shri Modi spoke about the divine experience of being among the gathering and his reverence for Swami Dayanand Ji’s ideals.
- Past Events: He recalled participating in a special program at Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati Ji’s birthplace in Gujarat and inaugurating the 200th birth anniversary celebrations in Delhi.
- Commemorative Release: The Prime Minister released a commemorative coin and postal stamp on the occasion.
- Vedic Identity: He emphasized that the anniversary is a celebration of the Vedic identity of the entire nation and its philosophical tradition.
- Role in Freedom Struggle: He cited examples of freedom fighters like Lala Lajpat Rai and Ramprasad Bismil who drew inspiration from the Arya Samaj.
Arya Samaj's Contributions
Upholding Indianness
The Prime Minister noted that the Arya Samaj has fearlessly upheld and promoted the essence of Indianness, challenging anti-India ideologies and divisive mindsets.
Tribute to Scholars
He paid tribute to scholars like Swami Shraddhanand, who gave a new direction to history through religious awakening.
Swami Dayanand Saraswati's Vision
Swami Dayanand Saraswati Ji emerged during a period of colonial subjugation, calling upon society to “Return to the Vedas!” He reawakened the suppressed national consciousness.
UPSC Relevance
GS1: Indian Culture and Modern History
This event and the associated information are relevant to GS1, particularly the sections on Indian Culture, Modern Indian History, and the Freedom Struggle. Understanding the role of socio-religious reform movements like Arya Samaj is crucial.
Key Figures
- Swami Dayanand Saraswati: Founder of Arya Samaj, a key figure in 19th-century socio-religious reform.
- Lala Lajpat Rai & Ramprasad Bismil: Freedom fighters inspired by Arya Samaj.
- Swami Shraddhanand: Scholar who contributed to religious awakening.
Potential Questions
- Analyze the role of Arya Samaj in shaping Indian nationalism.
- Evaluate the contributions of Swami Dayanand Saraswati in the context of 19th-century socio-religious reform movements.
Important Facts
- 150th Anniversary: The event celebrated the 150th anniversary of the Arya Samaj.
- Location: The event took place in New Delhi.
- Inspiration: Many freedom fighters drew inspiration from the Arya Samaj.
- Call to Action: Swami Dayanand Saraswati called upon society to "Return to the Vedas!"