“The well-being of the world is rooted in the thoughts of Bharat, and the strength of Bharat lies in a united Hindu society. Dr Hedgewar was steadfast in his resolve and unwavering in his commitment to his goal. Amidst adverse conditions, he found the guiding light for the organisation of nation. It is due to the impact of his sacrifice and penance that today, Bharat is once again moving towards becoming a Vishwaguru (world leader),” expressed Pujya Swami Govinddev Giri Maharaj, Treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, after being felicitated at the 36th Dr Hedgewar Pragya Samman Samaroh held on August 10, at the National Library Auditorium, Kolkata. The event was organised by the Shri Bada Bazar Kumar Sabha Library. Swamiji was presented with a citation and a cheque of Rs 1 lakh as part of the honour.
The event was presided over by Governor of Sikkim, Om Prakash Mathur, who praised the commendable work of Kumar Sabha, said it was his good fortune to be part of such a meaningful event. Recounting memories from his own journey in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), he highlighted the methodical approach developed by Dr Hedgewar. “The seed of patriotism that he planted continues to inspire us all ceaselessly even today,” he noted.
Keynote speaker and eminent intellectual, Mukul Kanitkar, observed that the world is currently passing through an intriguing phase, where Bharat is impacting the world through her culture as well as her growing prosperity. He emphasised that this transformation is being achieved through organisation, service, and systemic reform. He exhorted, “Dr Hedgewar didn’t merely organise the society, he emphasised the need for organisation within society. For building the nation, he saw the development of the individual as essential. His ideology of Hindutva has had an impact not only in Bharat but across the globe.”
Chief Guest Sajjan Kumar Tulsiyan lauded the selection of Swami Govinddev Giri Maharaj for an award associated with a nation-builder like Dr Hedgewar. “The RSS, founded by Dr Hedgewar, has today grown from a seed into a grand banyan tree,” he said.
Special Guest Prof Ajay Pratap Singh, Director General of the National Library, highlighted its historical and cultural importance, “After ancient universities like Nalanda were destroyed by invaders, the National Library today is striving to revive Bharatiya intellectual traditions and wisdom.”
The event began with a musical performance by renowned singer Omprakash Mishra, who presented the inspiring song Purn Karenge Hum Sab Keshav, Woh Sadhana Tumhari.
