Chandigarh, June 8 -- Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Monday flagged off a special train carrying more than 1,100 devotees from Kurukshetra to the Somnath Temple in Gujarat, describing pilgrimages as an important means of strengthening social harmony and preserving India's cultural heritage.
Addressing a gathering on the occasion, Saini said such spiritual journeys help connect younger generations with their roots, values and civilisational legacy while providing pilgrims with renewed energy, inspiration and spiritual awakening. He also honoured saints and spiritual leaders with ceremonial shawls.
The Chief Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership since 2014 has given a new direction to the country's development and highlighted efforts undertaken for the preservation and promotion of India's religious and cultural heritage. He cited the inauguration of the Ram Mandir, redevelopment of Kashi Vishwanath Dham, the Char Dham Project and the PRASAD Scheme as key initiatives reconnecting the nation with its civilisational roots.
Saini said the Somnath pilgrimage, undertaken by senior citizens under the Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana, reflected the government's commitment to the welfare of the elderly. He noted that thousands of senior citizens have already visited major pilgrimage centres under the scheme.
Describing Somnath Temple as the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas, Saini said its history symbolises India's resilience and unwavering faith. Despite repeated attacks and destruction, the temple was rebuilt time and again, becoming a symbol of cultural renaissance after Independence. He recalled that Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had viewed its reconstruction as a vital step towards restoring India's cultural identity.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.