Amit Shah Joins Centenary Celebrations of Mata Bhagwati Devi Sharma and Akhand Deep, Underscores Importance of Gayatri Mantra

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah attended the centenary celebrations of Param Vandaneya Mata Bhagwati Devi Sharma and Akhand Deep at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday. During the event, he spoke about the spiritual legacy of the Gayatri Pariwar and highlighted the importance of the Gayatri Mantra in shaping individual character and society. Reflecting on the Gayatri Pariwars 100-year journey, Amit Shah said the organisations history represents a remarkable combination of devotion, sacrifice, dedication and spiritual discipline. He observed that lighting a lamp requires only a flame, but ensuring that it continues to burn for a century demands three essential qualities: penance, sacrifice and firm determination.

He noted that the completion of 100 years of Akhand Jyoti should not be viewed simply as the achievement of keeping a lamp illuminated continuously. Instead, it represents the collective spiritual commitment and dedication of millions of devotees. Describing 100 as a symbol of completeness, Shah said the centenary year also holds special significance for India. He added that the birth centenary of Mata Bhagwati Devi Sharma and the completion of 100 years of Akhand Jyoti make the occasion particularly meaningful.

Addressing the gathering, Shah said the sacred flame symbolised a sense of divine energy and spiritual inspiration. He described the celebration as an occasion centred on faith, service and determination. Paying tribute to Mata Bhagwati Devi Sharma, he recalled her extraordinary spiritual discipline and said her personal penance was dedicated to bringing light and positivity into the lives of others.

He also acknowledged the contribution of Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya, popularly known as Gurudev, towards preserving and promoting Indian cultural values. According to Shah, his efforts played a significant role in spreading the message of the Gayatri Mantra across the world. Emphasising the significance of the Gayatri Mantra, Shah described it as a means of personal transformation and positive change. Drawing from his own experience, he said regular engagement with the mantra could bring meaningful improvements in an individuals life. However, he expressed concern that many young people today have limited knowledge of its importance.

Recalling his interactions with young students, including those at an Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Shah said he had discussed the relevance of the Gayatri Mantra with them after finding that several youngsters were unfamiliar with its deeper meaning. He referred to Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharyas explanation that the mantras 24 syllables correspond to 24 subtle centres linked with positive human qualities. According to this spiritual interpretation, chanting the mantra helps awaken and harmonise these centres, encouraging the development of virtues such as compassion, courage, selflessness and intelligence.

Shah further stressed that the Gayatri Mantra should not be viewed merely as part of religious ceremonies. He described it as a tool for strengthening individual character and encouraging wider social progress. He said the century-long journey of the Gayatri Pariwar reflects the enduring values of sacrifice, penance, commitment and spiritual discipline. The event was organised by the Gayatri Pariwar to mark the 100th birth anniversary of Mata Bhagwati Devi Sharma, a century of Akhand Deep and 100 years of the spiritual journey associated with Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharya.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.