Jammu, March 19:
In a vibrant display of spiritual fervor and cultural pride, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha joined the Kashmiri Pandit community today to celebrate Navreh at the Kashmiri Pandit Sabha in Amphalla.
Addressing a large gathering of devotees and youth, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized that the future of Jammu Kashmir as a prosperous Union Territory rests on the shoulders of the younger generation, whom he described as the “reshapers” of India’s legacy.
A Vision for a Vibrant Jammu Kashmir
LG Sinha underscored his belief that the region is on the cusp of a cultural and economic renaissance. He called upon the youth to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern progress.
“Jammu Kashmir holds the potential for a dynamic and flourishing future. Achieving this vision ultimately depends on the younger generation. I sincerely hope our youth will draw strength from the wisdom of our ancestors to elevate J&K among the country’s most developed regions.” — LG Manoj Sinha
The Spiritual Path: Navreh and the Inner Journey
Invoking the blessings of Maa Sharika, the LG spoke extensively on the metaphysical significance of the festival. He described Navratri and Navreh not merely as calendar events, but as transformative “inner journeys.”
The Four Stages of Devotion
The Lieutenant Governor outlined a spiritual roadmap for seekers, based on traditional Vedic wisdom:
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Shravana: Attentively hearing the prayer.
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Manana: Deeply contemplating the divine word.
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Nididhyasana: Internalizing the truth fully.
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Samadhi: Reaching the state where the knower and the known merge as one.
“Worship of Maa Durga and Maa Sharika is a profound bow to the primal source of power,” the LG added, citing the Rigveda to highlight the infinite strength of the Mother Goddess.
Honoring Excellence and Heritage
A highlight of the event was the felicitation of Padma Shri Brij Lal Bhat for his contributions to society. The LG noted that such icons serve as inspirations for the youth to connect with their “timeless traditions and rich spiritual heritage.”
Key Dignitaries in Attendance
The celebration saw a gathering of prominent leaders and officials, including:
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Shri K.K. Khosa, President, Kashmiri Pandit Sabha.
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Dr. Ashok Bhan, Member, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
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Shri Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary Culture.
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Shri Ashok Koul, BJP General Secretary (Org).
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Padma Shri Dr. SP Varma.
As the New Year begins, the Lieutenant Governor’s message was clear: tradition is the foundation, but the youth are the engine of change. He concluded by wishing that the dawn of Navreh illuminates paths to “renewed hope and a thriving, sustainable tomorrow.”
