President of India Addresses Srinagar, Praises Kashmir’s Rich Heritage and Progress
In a historic address at the Nagarik Abhinandan Samaroah held in Srinagar, the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, celebrated the rich cultural heritage and progress of the Jammu and Kashmir region, under the divine blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi and Hazratbal.
The Presidents Speech
Translated To English
As the President of the nation, this marks my first visit to the picturesque land of Jammu and Kashmir. Today, the warm welcome I have received in the company of Governor Manoj Lasunha and the hospitable people of Jammu and Kashmir has touched the depths of my heart. These memories will remain etched in my heart and mind forever.
For such a heartfelt welcome, I extend my appreciation not just from the surface of my heart but from its deepest core.
Honoring our Martyrs
In the morning, I had the privilege of paying homage to the eternal patriots at the War Memorial, offering my deepest respects to the immortal soldiers of Mother India. I bow to the valorous heroes who sacrificed their lives for the nation. I express my heartfelt gratitude to the brave warriors.
Jammu and Kashmir, a land of diversity and individuality, is a source of pride not only for the region but for the entire nation. The people here have not just made a mark in this region but have also elevated the dignity of the entire nation. I commend all of you for your contribution.
Dear countrymen and women,
About thirteen hundred years ago, the great sage Shankaracharya, nearly a thousand years ago Al-Biruni, and about three hundred years ago Frenchman Francois Bernier visited this land and praised the people of Kashmir. This region has been the center of art, culture, and education. The ancient work ‘Nilamata Purana’ mentions a saying that illuminates the essence of ancient culture and elevated thinking in Kashmir. It states:
“Shrotravyam Geetavadhyam Cha Tatha Sangeyam Samgama”
Meaning, one should listen to music, play a musical instrument, and engage in performing arts.
Our nation is known for giving immense respect to intellectuals and scholars, even more than rulers. Our tradition of giving priority to knowledge has shown us the path of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – the world is one family.
Beauty of Kashmir
The fertile land of Kashmir is not just adorned with colorful flowers; it is also a spiritual abode. Nearly two thousand years ago, the Fourth Buddhist Council was held in Kashmir, where the explanations of Hinayana and Mahayana were discussed for the first time.
It is believed that about thirteen hundred years ago, Adi Shankaracharya praised the beauty of the meadows of Kashmir through his hymn ‘Soundarya Lahari.’ His words and the teachings of Rishi Laldyed and Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani have illuminated the spiritual path. I acknowledge the Governor Manoj Lasunha’s initiative in promoting literature and culture.
Sufism and Shaivism have been the driving forces in promoting spirituality and have shown that the ‘Shanta Rasa’ and ‘Shanta Tattva’ are the sources of all Rasas. Maintaining the cultural heritage of Kashmir is vital.
In today’s world, great changes have come in the entire country, including Jammu and Kashmir. Progress, peace, and prosperity have begun a new era.
Development in Kashmir
Major transformations have taken place in infrastructure development, e-governance, healthcare, housing, women’s empowerment, tribal outreach, and inclusive development. It’s a matter of immense joy that nearly one crore seventy lakh tourists have visited Jammu and Kashmir until September this year, setting a record. It’s been told to me that several foreign dignitaries, who participated in the G20 Tourism Working Group meeting held in Kashmir, have been highly impressed, and this meeting is expected to have a positive impact on tourism in the region. Today, I attended the convocation of the University of Kashmir.
I was delighted to meet the young minds, especially those from our border areas. The energy and enthusiasm they have for progress are commendable. I also met the sisters of Self-Help Groups and youth from Tribal Groups who are equally passionate about making a difference. It’s because of such transformations that I extend my best wishes to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and Governor Manoj Lasunha’s team.
Honored Citizens of Jammu and Kashmir
The people of Jammu and Kashmir are highly respected for their contributions. Freedom fighters like Gulam Nabi Azad and Mazdoor Hussain Bagh have been honored with the Padma Bhushan. Shri Gulam Mohammad Jan has been recognized for his contribution to the arts, and Shri Mohan Lal Koul has been honored with the Padma Shri in 2023 for his services to society.
The list of such exceptional individuals in Jammu and Kashmir is long.
Our nation is progressing from the era of independence. By 2047, we aim to make India a developed nation, and the people of Jammu and Kashmir are marching forward with enthusiasm on the path of peace, progress, and love for the country. I wish you all the best.
Thank you! Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!
