Chandigarh: On the auspicious occasion of the first Monday of Sawan, Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini offered prayers to Lord Shiva at the Mahadev Temple in Saketri amidst the chanting of Vedic mantras. He prayed for the happiness, prosperity, and well-being of the people of Haryana and the nation.
Interacting with the media persons after offering prayers, the Chief Minister extended his heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the people of the state and the country on the holy occasion of Sawan.
He said that Lord Shiva, the Lord of Lords, protects the entire creation by consuming poison himself, symbolising the highest ideals of sacrifice and selfless service. He added that Lord Shiva's spirit of sacrifice and dedication inspires everyone with renewed energy and commitment. The Chief Minister further said that he prayed for Haryana's continued progress and prosperity and for every citizen of the state to lead a life filled with happiness, peace, and contentment.
On the auspicious occasion, the Chief Minister urged the youth to embrace India's rich cultural heritage and values in their lives. He called upon them to stay away from drugs, prioritize education, and strive to lead successful, meaningful, and responsible lives.
Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, the Chief Minister said that under his visionary leadership, several prominent religious sites symbolising Sanatan culture, including Baba Kedarnath Dham, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Baba Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, and Somnath Temple, have witnessed grand redevelopment and renovation. He said these initiatives have not only enhanced the grandeur of these sacred places but have also reinforced the deep faith and reverence that millions of devotees have in India's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Congratulating the athletes for their outstanding performances at the Commonwealth Games, the Chief Minister said he had prayed to Lord Shiva for Haryana's athletes to continue bringing laurels to both the state and the nation on the global stage. He said that sportspersons from Haryana have consistently made the country proud through their exceptional achievements in international competitions.
Responding to a query regarding the Kanwar Yatra, the Chief Minister said he had directed the administration to ensure comprehensive and seamless arrangements for the smooth conduct of the Yatra. He said that besides Haryana, Kanwariyas from several states pass through Haryana during the yatra and assured that all necessary measures have been put in place to ensure their safety, convenience, and well-being throughout their journey.
The Chief Minister said that devotees carrying Kanwars undertake a long and arduous pilgrimage to collect the holy water of the River Ganga and offer it to Lord Shiva as an expression of their deep faith and devotion. He urged all Kanwariyas to complete the yatra with discipline and in accordance with religious traditions. He also appealed to the public to extend full cooperation, remain vigilant, and help ensure that the yatra is conducted peacefully and safely without any untoward incidents.
Among those present on the occasion were Mayor Sh Sham Lal Bansal, former Haryana Assembly Speaker Sh Gian Chand Gupta, BJP District President Sh Ajay Mittal, Executive Vice-Chairman of the Haryana Shivalik Development Board Sh Om Prakash Devinagar, Deputy Commissioner Sh Satpal Sharma, Deputy Commissioner of Police Ms. Aditi Singh, SDM Sh Chanderkant Kataria, Media Secretary to Chief Minister Sh Praveen Atrey, BJP Yuva Morcha District Vice-President Sh Harvinder, District Secretary Sh Amarendra Singh, and President Shiv Mandir Saketri Sh K.D. Sharma.