Governor Kavinder Gupta said that ‘Rashmirathi Parv’ is not merely a remembrance of a great poet but a call to imbibe the values of social harmony, equality and patriotism in our lives. He said that the true tribute to Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh ‘Dinkar’ would be to uphold these ideals and contribute towards building a stronger and more inclusive nation.
The Governor was addressing the inaugural session of the two-day ‘Rashmirathi Parv’ organized at the historic Gaiety Theatre, Shimla, today to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee Year of Rashmirathi, the immortal epic poem of Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh ‘Dinkar’.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Gupta said that the festival also serves as a tribute to the great personalities who shaped the national consciousness of India. Referring to Swami Vivekananda, Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Ramdhari Singh ‘Dinkar’, he said that although they illuminated society through different paths, they all shared a common vision of placing the nation, society and humanity above all else.
“Swami Vivekananda inspired the youth to rise and awaken, Lokmanya Tilak transformed Swaraj into the birthright of every Indian, Atal Bihari Vajpayee demonstrated that politics is rooted in dialogue and sensitivity, while Dinkar immortalized these values through the power of poetry,” the Governor observed.
Referring to the central character of Rashmirathi, Shri Gupta said that Karna’s life is not merely an ancient tale but a mirror reflecting the struggles and aspirations of every individual. He urged young people to draw inspiration from Karna’s perseverance, courage and determination.
“The true Rashmirathi was not the one who possessed everything, but the one who conquered the darkness of adversity through his own inner light. You are the charioteers of your own destiny. Pursue knowledge, work hard, innovate and achieve success, but never forget your roots, your language, your culture and your national values,” he said.
The Governor expressed confidence that the younger generation would imbibe the timeless values reflected in Dinkar’s works and emerge as torchbearers of India’s bright future. On the occasion, the Governor also released a commemorative publication titled “Rashmirathi Se Samvad” and watched the theatrical presentation based on the celebrated literary masterpiece Rashmirathi.
Former Union Minister of State Ashwini Kumar Choubey, who attended the event as the Guest of Honour, congratulated the organizers for holding the two-day festival dedicated to promoting an egalitarian, harmonious, inclusive and culturally vibrant society. He also spoke about the life and philosophy of Swami Vivekananda and attended a theatrical performance based on his life.
Earlier, Chairman of Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh ‘Dinkar’ Smriti Nyas, Neeraj Kumar welcomed the Governor and highlighted the objectives of the event. Renowned litterateur and theatre personality from Mumbai, Mujeeb Khan also shared his views on the literary legacy of Dinkar.
Member of the Nyas, Sandeep Shahi briefed the audience about the significance of Rashmirathi Parv, while the programme coordinator Narendra Sharma proposed a vote of thanks.