Margshirsha Amavasya Vik. Samvat 2081, Yugabda 5126 : 1 December, 2024: SM 6017 (For Private Circulation only)
1. FESTIVALS:
VEER BAL DIWAS: December 26 is a significant day in Bharat's history as it
was on this day in 1705 that Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh,
younger sons of the tenth and last Sikh Guru Sri Guru Gobind Singh made supreme
sacrifice at the tender age of 9 and 6 years respectively, to defend the dignity
and honour of Dharma against the Mughal Badshah Aurangzeb and his army.
2. PROGRAMS OF SARSANGHCHALAK DR. MOHAN BHAGWAT:
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh Sarsanghchalak Dr. Mohan Bhagwat, along with Swami
Avadheshanand Giri and Delhi University Vice Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh,
launched a book ‘Banayen Jeevan Praanwaan’ authored by RSS Pracharak Mukul
Kanitkar on November 26 in New Delhi.
Swami Avadheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj and Author Mukul Kanitkar elaborated on the scientific underpinnings of Bharatiya culture. The book serves as a bridge between classical principles and contemporary relevance for understanding the essence of Bharatiya heritage and spirituality.
On November 17, Dr Bhagwat inaugurated the newly constructed Sher Singh Karki Saraswati Vihar Bhawan in Muaani, Pithoragarh district. He underscored that cultural values and an understanding of education’s purpose strengthen society. Distinguished guests, including former Governor and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Bhagat Singh Koshiyari also graced the occasion. The Sher Singh Karki Saraswati Vihar Bhawan aims to uplift the border regions of Pithoragarh by offering quality education to children while promoting Bharatiya cultural and environmental values. -GoTop
3. RSS’S 25-DAY KARYAKARTA VIKAS VARG DVITIYA (VISHESH)
BEGINS AT NAGPUR: The inauguration of Karyakarta Vikas Varg Dvitiya (Vishesh)
of RSS was held at Dr Hedgewar Smriti Bhavan, Reshimbagh, Nagpur on November 18.
On this occasion, RSS Sah Sarkaryavahs Dr Krishnagopal, Mukunda CR and Ramdutt
Chakradhar along with Akhil Bharatiya Sahsewa Pramukh and Varg Palak, Rajkumar
Matale and Jodhpur Prant Sanghchalak and Sarvadhikari Hardayal Verma were
present.
In the varg, training will be imparted on social awareness and social transformation. During the inauguration, varg palak Rajkumar Matale addressed the shiksharshis. He stated that this Vishesh Varg, which is being held on the sacred land of Dr Hedgewar and Shri Guru Ji is historic. -GoTop
4. LOKMANTHAN BHAGYANAGAR 2024 CONCLUDES: Pragna
Pravah’s Lokmanthan Bhagyanagar 2024 concluded on November 24. The event, held
from November 21, brought together thought leaders, cultural icons, and
delegates from across the world reaffirming Bharat’s role as a guiding light in
the modern era. During the concluding session of the event, RSS Sarsanghchalak
Dr. Mohan Bhagwat provided a profound perspective on Bharat’s eternal concepts
of Dharma and creation. He emphasized that while the world races ahead without
contemplating its destination, Bharat has always reflected on the deeper truth
of unity and oneness.
On November 22, Rashtrapati Draupadi Murmu inaugurated the event and also launched a book “Lok Avalokan” compiled by Pragna Pravah.
A cultural exhibition was inaugurated on November 21 by former Uprashtrapati M Venkaiah Naidu. Several Union and State Ministers including G Kishan Reddy and Pragna Pravah chairperson Padma Shri Dr T. Hanuman Chowdary graced the event. -GoTop
5. VIVIBHA2024: VISION FOR VIKSIT BHARAT: Bharatiya
Shikshan Mandal organized a three-day national researchers’ conference
‘VIVIBHA2024: Vision for Viksit Bharat' in Gurugram, Haryana from November 15 to
17 with the theme “Research for Realisation” which marks a significant step
towards achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat.
In preparations of VIVIBHA 2024, the BSM-Yuva Aayam reached over 10 lakh students/researchers and over one lakh teachers/educationists of about 10,000 educational institutions in the past one year. It also organized a “Research Paper Writing Competition” where 1,68,771 students registered. 1200 research papers were selected for participation in conference and research papers selected at the state level were conferred with certificates. -GoTop
6. ABVP’S 70TH NATIONAL CONVENTION: Akhil Bharatiya
Vidyarathi Prishad’s 70th National Convention was held in Gorkhpur from November
22 to 24. While addressing the closing session of the convention Chief Minister
Yogi Adityanath remembered the contributions of freedom fighters and youth
leaders during the freedom movement of Bharat. He urged youth to continue
working towards building a strong nation.
During the convention, it was also announced that ABVP has set a milestone by surpassing 55 lakh members, solidifying its position as the world's largest student organisation. -GoTop
7. 75TH SAMVIDHAN DIWAS OF BHARAT: Since 2015 every year
November 26 is observed as a Constitution Day of Bharat as on this day in 1949,
the Constituent Assembly of Bharat adopted the Constitution, which came into
effect on January 26, 1950. On the occasion, Rashtrapati Droupadi Murmu
addressed a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament in the Central Hall of
Samvidhan Sadan, marking the beginning of year-long celebrations of 75 years of
adoption of Bharat's Constitution. Rashtrapati Murmu said, “The fundamental
duties of every citizen had been clearly defined in country's founding document,
which lay stress on protecting nation's unity and integrity, promoting harmony
and ensuring the dignity of women.
Addressing an event of Constitution Day at Supreme Court, PM Modi said that Constitution has now been fully implemented in J&K and Constitution Day was celebrated there for first time. Bharat’s Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and other Judges of SC were present at the event. -GoTop
8. TRIBAL COMMUNITY IS THE PRIDE OF OUR COUNTRY –
UPRASHTRAPATI JAGDEEP DHANKHAR: On November 16, on the occasion of
celebration of 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda as Janjati Gaurav
Mahotsav, the Chief Guest - Uprashtrapati Jagdeep Dhankhar said that the tribal
community is the pride of the nation.
9. AHIYALBAI HOLKAR BUILT TEMPLES TO RE-ESTABLISH THE SENSE
OF NATIONHOOD AND SELF-HOOD: DR KRISHNA GOPAL : An event to commemorate the
300th birth anniversary of Punyashlok Devi Ahilyabai Holkar was held in New
Delhi on November 14. She was a great ruler and was born on May 31, 1725 in
Maharashtra. Ahilyabai Holkar is a revered icon of justice, governance, and
dedication to cultural restoration.
10. GUYANA AND DOMINICA CONFER TOP AWARDS ON PM MODI:
On November 20, Guyana and Dominica conferred their top awards on Pradhan Mantri
Narendra Modi for his contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic and his
exceptional contributions to the global community and efforts in strengthening
bilateral ties with the two Caribbean nations.
11. HSS CANADA DISPLAY DARSHANA EXHIBITION: On November
17, HSS Canada organised Darshana Exhibition at the Surrey Museum during Hindu
Heritage Month. This inspiring event welcomed a diverse gathering of Hindu
families, especially from the Langley and Abbotsford shakhas, creating an
atmosphere of cultural pride and unity. The exhibition offered a rich journey
into Hindu cultural and spiritual heritage, captivating attendees with its
thoughtful displays.
12. HINDU STUDENTS COUNCIL CANADA: During the Hindu
Heritage month celebrations in Canada, Shakti Foundation with Hindu Student
Council of Canada organised a Hindu arts and culture festival on November 9.
13. SEWA DIWALI 2024 EVENTS: SewaDiwali is a charitable
food drive organized by Dharmic communities across the United States during
Diwali month. In Ohio region communities donated over 6,000 pounds of
food this year, in collaboration with 25+ community partners, benefiting three
food pantries across Greater Columbus.
Hindu and Jain communities of Indiana joined hands over the two weeks in November for a transformative mission to families in need. With over 150 volunteers from 20 Dharmic organizations, including HSS and Care collected over 9,000 pounds of non-perishable food and 2,600 pounds of fresh produce. All donations were directed to the Mason Comet Cupboard at Mason City Schools. The Hindu community of Peoria including the HSS chapter donated 4,000+ pounds of non-perishable food items and over $2,500 in monetary contributions.
HSS San Diego Vibhag collected and donated 1500 lbs of non-perishable food to Feeding San Diego home and food deprived families. HSS and Sewa International North LA chapters in Oak Park City coordinated for food donations to two local food pantries. At the Simi Valley Samaritan Center 800 pounds of food was donated and Moorpark Pantry was donated 2,000 pounds of food.
HSS USA Abhinanyu chapter in Schaumburg, IL collected and donated 3,800 pounds of food to Schaumburg Food Pantry.
HSS, Sewa, VHP in Australia also organized SewaDiwali food drive in their respective chapters through out the country. HSS QLD Vibhag donated 250 Kg groceries to Community Friends, West End. SewaDiwali Bunbury team delivered grocery to beneficiary Doors Wide Open. VHP SewaDiwali Western team donated collected food to Midland Meals Perth Homless Support Group Inc Foodbank.
Milton Dick MP, Speaker of the House of Representatives and Federal Member for Oxley, alongside Jess Pugh MP, State Member for Mount Ommaney joined Diwali celebration by donating groceries to SewaDiwali initiative. -GoTop
14. UN CELEBRATES DIAMOND JUBILEE OF HINDI DIWAS IN NY:
The Permanent Mission of Bharat to the United Nations organized the Diamond
Jubilee celebrations of Hindi Diwas in New York on November 22. This landmark
event commemorated the 75th anniversary of Hindi’s adoption as an official
language of Bharat on September 14, 1949. The event was attended by a visiting
delegation of Bharatiya MPs, including Permanent Representatives (PR) and Deputy
PRs from over 40 countries, senior UN officials, academics, diaspora members,
and winners of various competitions.
15. PM MODI ENCOURAGES BHARATIYA DIASPORA TO PARTICIPATE IN
‘BHARAT KO JANIYE’ QUIZ: In his recently concluded trip to Guyana, on
November 23, Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi has urged the diaspora to participate
in the ‘Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz’ as it was an opportunity to understand Bharat,
its values, culture and diversity.
The 5th edition of the Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz is being held online (www.bkjquiz.com) from 11 November 2024 to 11 December 2024 and is open for participation in two categories (i) Non-Resident Indians and (ii) Persons of Indian Origin/Foreign nationals, aged between 14 to 50 years. The top 30 scorers of the quiz, 15 in each category, will be invited for a two-week immersive Bharat Ko Janiye Yatra (Know India Tour). They will also participate in the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubhaneshwar from January 8 to 10, 2025. -GoTop
16. PM MODI’S UNIQUE BHARATIYA GIFTS TO LEADERS DURING
THREE-NATION VISIT: Over the years, Pradhan Mantri Narendra Modi has
transformed Bharat’s foreign diplomacy into a vibrant display of cultural
diversity. With each international visit along with diplomatic agenda he also
present Bharat’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing its traditions, languages,
art and spirituality in the form of gifts to the head of states and other elite
dignitaries.
17. LAOS: RAJNATH SINGH OFFERS PRAYERS AT WAT SI SAKET,
URGES WORLD TO EMBRACE BUDDHIST TEACHINGS FOR PEACE
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh offered prayers on November 22 at the Wat Si
Saket, a Buddhist temple in Vientiane, Laos.
18. BALI JATRA IN ODISHA TO CELEBRATE SEA-TRADING HISTORY:
Bali Jatra (Asia’s largest open-air trade fair), was started to celebrate
Odisha’s ancient sea-trading history. This year’s fair opened on Kartik Purnima
and concluded on November 22 in Cuttack.
Around 2,500 stalls were showcased crafts, household items, and foods for visitors. High Commissioners and Heads of Mission of many countries and several other diplomats attended the Bali Jatra Cuttack Utsav 2024. -GoTop
19. BHARAT’S FIRST INDIGENOUS ANTIBIOTIC DRUG NAFITHROMYCIN
FOR RESISTANT INFECTIONS LAUNCHED: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh on
November 20 in New Delhi formally launched the first
indigenous antibiotic “Nafithromycin” for resistant infections. The antibiotic
has been developed with the support of "Biotechnology Industry Research
Assistance Council" (BIRAC), a unit of the Department of Biotechnology. It is
the country's first indigenously developed antibiotic aimed at tackling
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).
Bharat, which bears 23% of the world’s community pneumonia burden, faces challenges with existing treatments, including widespread resistance to drugs like azithromycin. The new antibiotic is said to be ten times more effective than current options and offers a safer, faster, and more tolerable solution for patients. -GoTop
20. BHARAT SUCCESSFULLY TESTS HYPERSONIC MISSILE: On
November 16, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)
successfully flight tested Bharat's first long range hypersonic missile from Dr.
APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. After launch, its speed can
reach up to 6,200 kilometres per hour, which is 5 times the speed of sound.
21. JNU BECOMES FIRST UNIVERSITY TO INTRODUCE BHARATIYA
KNOWLEDGE TRADITIONS COURSE: Students across all disciplines at Jawaharlal
Nehru University (JNU), including engineering and management, will study
traditional Bharatiya knowledge as part of a newly introduced elective course.
JNU becomes first university to introduce this course.
22. AYODHYA RAM MANDIR’S FIRST PRAN-PRATISHTHA ANNIVERSARY
TO BE CELEBRATED ON ‘PRATISHTHA DWADASHI’: The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth
Kshetra Trust has announced that the first anniversary of the Pran Pratishtha of
Ram Lalla’s 51-inch murti will be celebrated with great grandeur on January 11,
2025, in alignment with the Hindu calendar as ‘Pratishtha Dwadashi’.
23. SHRI VISHWA NIKETAN: Pravas: Visitors:
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Mere book learning and discussions are comparable to a
man shaving the image in the mirror. – Ramana Smruti -pg 59.
-GoTop
JAI SHRI RAM
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FIRST BODOLOLAND MAHOTSAV:TESTAMENT TO UNITY AND INCLUSIVITY
Bharat’s strength lies in its unique
diversity. This was encapsulated in the 1st Bodoland Mahotsav which focused on
language, literature and culture of Bodo community. The two-day Mahotsav, which
concluded in New Delhi on November 16, was a triumph of national integration
Dr Velentina Brahma
Bharat is a nation defined by its
remarkable diversity and the 1st Bodoland Mahotsav, held in New Delhi on
November 15th and 16th, 2024, beautifully encapsulated this strength. The event,
a celebration of the Bodo community’s rich cultural heritage, was not merely a
festival—it was a powerful testament to the unity and inclusiveness that lies at
the heart of Bharat. By showcasing traditions and aspirations of the people of
Bodoland, the Mahotsav shattered long-standing perceptions of the North-East as
a distant, isolated region and reaffirmed its vital role in national integrity.
Remembering Bravehearts: What strikes the most about the Bodoland
Mahotsav was how it seamlessly showcased the geographical and cultural
continuity between North East and Delhi that was always misintepretated and
misrepresented previously due to lack of development and infrastructure in Seven
Sisters. The sheer scale of the event, with over 5,000 participants from
Bodoland gathering in Delhi, symbolised not just cultural pride but an essential
affirmation of Bodoland’s contribution to national integration. When the Bodo
community marched from Rajghat to India Gate—two of India’s most iconic symbols
of unity and sacrifice—it was more than a procession; it was a powerful
statement of how far we’ve come as a nation in embracing our diversity.
The significance of this cultural rally cannot be overstated. Rajghat, the
resting place of Mahatma Gandhi, is a symbol of peace, while India Gate
commemorates the sacrifices of soldiers who fought for our collective freedom.
The Bodo community, traditionally associated with North-East, linked these two
historic landmarks through music, dance, and art, offering a window into their
rich heritage while simultaneously affirming their place within the fabric of
India. This was not simply an expression of local pride; it was a declaration of
unity —an acknowledgment that Bodoland, with its unique culture and history, is
integral to India.
Journey from Conflict to Peace: What is even more inspiring is how Bodoland Mahotsav reflected the leadership of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) and region’s journey from conflict to peace. Under visionary leadership of Pramod Boro, the region has undergone a remarkable transformation.
The Bodo Peace Accord of 2020, which marked the end of decades of insurgency and instability, created the space for economic progress, cultural revival, and peaceful coexistence. The Mahotsav, as an outcome of this peace, symbolised not only resilience of the people of Bodoland but also their aspiration to contribute to the broader progress of the nation. The Mahotsav marked the 73rd Foundation Day of Bodo Sahitya Sabha. The Sahitya Sabha’s efforts to preserve and promote Bodo language were lauded by Prime Minister Modi, who remarked: “Language is the foundation of culture. By nurturing the Bodo language, you are enriching India’s collective heritage.” A country as diverse as India, where thousands of languages and dialects are spoken, preserving linguistic and cultural heritage is not just important—it’s essential. Prime Minister Modi’s recognition of the Bodo language as a vital part of India’s multilingual fabric was a poignant reminder that every language, every dialect, is a thread in the intricate tapestry of our nation’s identity.
Showcasing Prosperity: But the Mahotsav wasn’t solely about cultural pride—it was also a demonstration of economic progress. The exhibition of Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products from Bodoland, such as handloom textiles and silk, highlighted the region’s economic potential and the efforts being made to revitalise traditional crafts. It was heartening to see how initiatives like Bodoland Sericulture Mission and Handloom Mission are creating sustainable livelihoods and providing economic opportunities for local communities, while also contributing to the wider Indian economy.
The event also highlighted Bodoland’s ecological wealth, and this is something that cannot be ignored. With Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other protected areas like Raimona National Park and Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary, Bodoland is an ecological treasure trove. These areas are not only critical for biodiversity but also hold immense potential for eco-tourism, which can significantly contribute to both environmental conservation and economic growth. Prime Minister Modi’s call for collective responsibility in protecting these natural resources resonates deeply. Bodoland’s natural beauty is not just its own—it is a national treasure.
Another highlight of the Mahotsav was the tribute paid to Bodofa Upendranath Brahma, the “Father of the Bodos.” His vision of peace and coexistence has been the guiding light for Bodoland’s integration into the national fold. Bodofa’s philosophy of “live and let live” laid the foundation for the region’s peaceful transformation, and it’s a message that resonates with all of India today. In his tribute, Prime Minister Modi rightly emphasised that Bodofa’s ideals are not just for Bodoland, but for the entire nation. His vision remains a beacon for a unified, harmonious India.
In my view, the 1st Bodoland Mahotsav was not just an event—it was a turning point. It was a celebration of India’s unity in diversity, a manifestation of our collective strength, and a reflection of our progress as a nation that is finally shedding old prejudices and embracing its vast cultural diversity and geo-cultural continuity. The Mahotsav proved that North East is no longer the “distant” region that people once thought of it as; it is at the very heart of our national story.
This Mahotsav was about more than just Bodo culture—it was about celebrating the soul of India. As we look to the future, Bodoland’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when communities work together toward mutual respect and understanding. As we move forward, let us take inspiration from Bodofa Upendranath Brahma’s vision and continue to build an India that truly represents the best of all its people. https://organiser.org/2024/11/27/267026/bharat/first-bodololand-mahotsav-testament-to-unity-and-inclusivity/ -GoTop
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