Rishikesh, January 21 – In a powerful address at the centenary release of Gita Press’s iconic monthly magazine ‘Kalyan’ in Uttarakhand’s Rishikesh, Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that protecting Sanatana Dharma requires the strength of scriptures and logic, not mere clamor. The event, held at a revered venue, drew dignitaries including Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
Before his speech, Shah paid homage at Laxminarayan Temple and offered prayers to Maa Ganga, underscoring the spiritual significance of the occasion. He hailed Gita Press as an indispensable beacon for anyone cherishing Indian culture, noting its 103-year legacy under the visionary leadership of Swami Hanuman Prasad Poddar.
‘Poddar ji dedicated his life to igniting the flame of Sanatana Dharma through Gita Press,’ Shah said. ‘He inspired millions towards devotion and spirituality, paving the path to moksha. By embedding unwavering faith in Indian culture in every heart and home, he created an enduring legacy.’
Celebrating ‘Kalyan’s’ 100 years, Shah described it as a monumental achievement. Every word, sentence, and issue has been devoted to Sanatana Dharma and Indian ethos. He praised Gita Press for making ancient texts like Adi Shankaracharya’s Upanishad commentaries accessible across generations without dilution.
Reflecting on colonial times when faith was dismissed as superstition, Shah lauded Poddar for lighting the lamp of knowledge through ‘Kalyan’ – non-aggressively yet firmly. ‘Its aim was the welfare of individuals and the world,’ he added. Shah stressed that true defense of Sanatana comes through shastra (scriptures), tarka (logic), and shanti (peace), countering opposition effectively.
Gita Press never chased publicity or funds, focusing instead on ideas over individuals. ‘Civilizations rise not on swords but on words illuminated by truth and essence,’ Shah declared. He highlighted transformative changes under PM Modi’s 11-year tenure, including the Ram Temple in Ayodhya after 550 years and the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, symbols of faith’s triumph over destruction.
The minister’s words resonated deeply, reinforcing Gita Press’s role in preserving cultural heritage amid modern challenges. As ‘Kalyan’ enters its next century, it stands as a testament to enduring wisdom.
