24-01-2026 : The Governor attended as the Chief Guest the concluding ceremony of the Akhand Jyoti Centenary Celebrations organised by Shantikunj in Haridwar.
Lok Bhavan Uttarakhand-Information Wing
Press Note
Lok Bhavan Dehradun 24 January, 2026
The Governor, Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd.), attended as the Chief Guest the concluding ceremony of the Akhand Jyoti Centenary Celebrations organised by Shantikunj in Haridwar on Saturday. Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan was present on the occasion as the Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that the event was not merely a conclusion but, in fact, the beginning of a new era. He remarked that although it was termed a closing ceremony, it symbolised the commencement of an age of transformation. Describing it as a “Kumbh of consciousness,” he said the movement has given fresh momentum to the journey of individual, social, and national development.
The Governor stated that the historic moment conveys a powerful message of service, dedication, spiritual discipline, and wisdom, which serves as an inspiration for humanity at large. He noted that the 51-day-long observance had delivered a universal message of spiritual practice, service, and harmony. He emphasised that it was not merely a religious event, but a resolve for spiritual and moral reconstruction that every citizen should imbibe in their life.
Highlighting the contributions of the Gayatri Parivar, the Governor said that the organisation’s extensive work in the fields of service and value-based living across the world has laid a strong foundation for an era of transformation. Spread across more than 80 countries, this spiritual movement, through thousands of centres and millions of followers, continues to propagate the message of nation-building.
Describing Shantikunj not just as an ashram but as a Yug Teerth and a spiritual laboratory, the Governor said that it plays a vital role in shaping ideal citizens and enlightened human beings through spiritual practice, training, and service. He appreciated the ongoing efforts under the present leadership to carry forward Gurudev’s philosophy by aligning it with contemporary needs.
Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, in his address, said that the Gayatri Parivar is not an ordinary institution but a flowing stream of culture, an ocean of values, and a radiant spiritual force guiding the world towards eternal principles. He said that the Akhand Jyoti is not just a physical flame, but a light that illuminates the inner self more than the outer world. It connects intellect with wisdom, action with righteousness, and the individual soul with the Supreme. He emphasised that this sacred flame continues to burn eternally.
Shri Chouhan further stated that the world today is passing through a phase of unrest, uncertainty, and conflict, where trade is being used as a weapon and dominance is being asserted through power. In such times, he said, Indian culture, Sanatan values, and institutions like the Gayatri Parivar alone can guide the world towards peace and harmony.
On this occasion, Dr. Chinmay Pandya, leader of the Centenary Celebrations of the Gayatri World Family, welcomed the dignitaries and devotees present and shared detailed information about the programme.
.……0…….