Haryana’s Energy, Transport, and Labour Minister, Sh. Anil Vij said that by following the teachings and principles of Maharishi Valmiki, one can lead a purposeful and virtuous life. He emphasized that Maharishi Valmiki laid the very foundation of India’s religious and cultural heritage.
Addressing devotees as the chief guest at celebrations held on the occasion of Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti at Valmiki Temples in Topkhana Bazaar and Babiyal, Ambala Cantonment, the Minister extended his heartfelt greetings to everyone present.
“Maharishi Valmiki is revered as the Adi Kavi (the first poet), the creator of the universe’s first poem, and the author of the ancient epic Ramayana, the oldest scripture known to humankind,” said Vij. “The first Sanskrit verse was revealed through the divine words of Maharishi Valmiki himself. He was the first sage to express sacred scriptures in poetic form—an innovation that continues to enlighten generations.”
Sh.Vij added that through the Ramayana, Maharishi Valmiki immortalized the life and ideals of Lord Rama, portraying His love for His brothers, respect for parents, devotion to His wife, and duty toward His people. “The Ramayana remains a timeless guide to righteous living and moral strength,” he said.
*“Ramayana Was Written for the Welfare of Humanity” – Vij*
Sh. Vij further stated that Maharishi Valmiki wrote the Ramayana for the welfare of humankind. “Through the life of Lord Rama, he showed us the path to truth and virtue. The Ramayana is a key to success and wisdom—it guides us through life’s most challenging circumstances,” he said.
He urged devotees to take a pledge on this sacred occasion to follow the noble teachings of Maharishi Valmiki and imbibe the essence of his verses to purify and elevate their lives.
*Rs.10 Lakh Granted for Topkhana and Rs 12 Lakh for Babiyal Valmiki Temple Committees*
During the program, Sh. Vij inaugurated the Valmiki Dharamshala at Topkhana Bazaar, constructed at a cost of Rs.22 lakh. He announced a donation of Rs.10 lakh from his discretionary fund for the expansion and activities of the Dharamshala. Additionally, he also announced Rs.12 lakh for the expansion of Ambedkar Dharamshala in Babiyal.
The Minister was warmly welcomed at both venues with garlands, shawls, mementos, and ceremonial turbans by the temple committee members and local dignitaries.Later in the evening, Sh. Vij also participated in the Bhagwan Valmiki Shobha Yatra near BD Floor Mill and attended community programs at Tundla village and Railway Colony.
Among those present were Municipal Council Vice President Lalita Prasad, Valmiki Sabha officials Ashwini Kumar, Nand Lal, Bhagat Ram, Raj Kumar Raja, Mohan Lal Baggan, Madan Lal Sharma, Sanjay Kumar, Raja Ram, Ravi, Mohan Lal Boby, Laxmi Devi, Raj Kumar Mattu, Raj Kumar Boh, BJP representatives Kiran Pal Chauhan, Sanjeev Atri, Sanjeev Soni, Deepak Bhasin, Ravi Budhiraja, Narendra Rana, Ashima, and Anil Walia, along with several other prominent citizens and devotees.