Celebrating Arya Samaj’s Reformist Legacy
During his address, the Prime Minister highlighted how Arya Samaj’s foundation, laid 150 years ago, continues to inspire social transformation, education, and empowerment. He emphasized that the occasion was not confined to any single sect or community but symbolized India’s collective journey toward equality, knowledge, and reform.
Shri Modi stated, “The 150th anniversary of Arya Samaj is a divine milestone that reflects the unbroken tradition of social reform. Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati awakened the nation during colonial times, reminding Indians of their cultural strength and moral duty.”
Marking the 200th birth anniversary of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati, the Prime Minister expressed pride in releasing a special ₹200 commemorative coin and a ₹150 coin to honor Arya Samaj’s century-and-a-half legacy. These coins, he said, embody the timeless message of truth, reform, and unity.
He praised Maharshi Dayanand for challenging social evils such as untouchability and discrimination, calling him a “visionary who reignited India’s national consciousness during a time of slavery.” Modi reiterated that the reformer’s ideals continue to influence India’s social and educational fabric.
Women Empowerment and Sanskrit Revival
The Prime Minister lauded the Sanskrit chants performed by young women at the Mahasammelan, calling it a reflection of India’s inclusive cultural resurgence. “The way our daughters are leading in every field is living proof of a major transformation,” he said, linking it to Dayanand Saraswati’s belief in women’s education and empowerment.
He emphasized that today’s empowered women symbolize the realization of Swami Dayanand’s dream for an enlightened and equitable India.
Call for Swadeshi and Ethical Growth
As India strengthens its self-reliant movement, Prime Minister Modi called upon Arya Samaj members to play a proactive role in promoting the spirit of ‘Swadeshi’. He underlined that ethical living, indigenous development, and moral leadership are vital for India’s global rise in the 21st century.
“At a time when the nation is once again embracing the responsibility of ‘Swadeshi’, I urge the Arya Samaj community to carry this message forward with renewed vigor,” he said.
Through his message, the Prime Minister underlined that spiritual discipline and social reform must go hand in hand to build a just and progressive society a vision deeply rooted in Arya Samaj’s teachings.