NEW DELHI: The session was graced by the esteemed presence of Dr Krishna Gopal Ji, Sah-Sarkaryavah of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, as the chief guest. He was joined on the dias by Ravindra Kanhere Ji (All India President), Shri Deshraj Ji (General Secretary), Govind Ji Mahant (Organising Secretary), and Rohit Vaswani Ji (Treasurer).
Addressing the gathering, Dr Krishna Gopal Ji emphasised that Vidya Bharati continues to expand its role as a strong educational organisation, rooted in national consciousness and a spiritual outlook. Referring to the principle “Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti”, he highlighted India’s cultural strength of unity in diversity.
He stated that the purpose of education is not merely the dissemination of knowledge, but the development of a sense of national commitment, the establishment of spiritual values, and a holistic outlook towards life among students. Vidya Bharati, he said, is actively working towards achieving this harmonious integration.
Dr Krishna Gopal Ji stressed three key dimensions of education: national consciousness, understanding of spiritual fundamentals, and the nurturing of value-based students. He observed that increasing self-centeredness and materialistic tendencies in contemporary society are leading to intolerance, and that the solution lies in harmonising nationalism with spirituality.
Highlighting the impact of modern technological developments, he spoke about Artificial Intelligence (AI), stating that while technology is useful, it cannot replace human sensitivity, creativity, and values. Therefore, preserving human values within education is essential.
He further emphasised that, alongside worldly education, imparting a spiritual perspective to every student is necessary to enable them to lead purposeful, value-oriented lives. He noted that the work of Vidya Bharati is an expanded manifestation of the foundational ideas of Dr Hedgewar and is playing a significant role in nation-building.
During the session, Shradhanjali was paid to depart, inspiring personalities, and a framework for four days of deliberations for the coming year was presented.
On this occasion, a ‘Smarika’ (Commemorative Publication) based on the theme “Saptashakti Sangam” was ceremonially released in the presence of Dr Madhu Savji, Sadhana Bhandari Ji, Rajshri Vaidya Ji, and Avneesh Bhatnagar Ji.
