Srinagar, July 26 (KINS): Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday attended the annual Harbah Festival at Anantnag, where he paid obeisance at Mata Sidh Lakshmi Temple and extended his greetings to devotees participating in the annual Hawan.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor described the Harbah Festival as a celebration of devotion, gratitude and spiritual awakening. He said Teerathraj Lok Bhawan in Anantnag, with its serene surroundings, stands as a symbol of India’s timeless spiritual and cultural heritage.
“Every stone, every stream and every breath here reflects the eternal consciousness of our Sanatan culture and spiritual legacy, which has guided humanity on the path of truth, compassion and dharma for centuries,” he said.
Highlighting the historical importance of the shrine, the Lieutenant Governor recalled that the place was known as Lokpunya, as mentioned in Kalhana’s Rajatarangini. He said the annual Hawan and flag-hoisting ceremony continue to strengthen the values of devotion, service, sacrifice, patience and social harmony.
Referring to the challenges of modern life, the Lieutenant Governor said that while science and technology have brought people closer, they have also contributed to increasing loneliness and social divisions. He stressed that spiritual values must remain the foundation of society and called for greater unity, compassion and mutual respect.
“The Harbah Festival reminds us that true devotion is expressed through service to humanity, mutual respect and selfless love,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor also outlined his vision for a peaceful and prosperous society, making three key appeals. He said spiritual values should guide both individuals and institutions to build trust and prosperity. He emphasised that mental and spiritual well-being must receive equal importance alongside physical health, and urged that young people be inspired towards selfless service and dedication to the nation.
Calling upon the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, he urged them to stay connected not only with modern education but also with the region’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions.
“True knowledge is realised through humility, and its strength becomes sacred when used in the service of others,” he said.
Among those present were Padma Shri Brij Lal Bhat, Swami Sriram Charana Aravinda Dasa, Director (Projects), ISKCON, DIG South Kashmir Javid Iqbal Mattoo, SSP Anantnag Amod Ashok Nagpure, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag Dr Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, All Minority Employees Association Kashmir President Sanjay Koul, senior officers of the Police and Civil Administration, members of the Teerathraj Sidh Lakshmi Peeth Trust, prominent citizens and a large number of devotees.(KINS)
LG Manoj Sinha attends Harbah festival at Anantnag
