THE LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR, DELHI
NAMASKAR - GOOD EVENING!
My dear brothers and sisters, Bharathvasis (भारतवासी)
I extend my best wishes and congratulations to all gathered here today on this auspicious occasion: the dedication of the Silver Jubilee Centre of the Kerala-based Santhigiri (शांतिगिरी) Ashram in New Delhi. We also mark today, a remarkable journey spanning 25 years, during which this branch of the Ashram has served Delhi and Northern India by imparting spiritual knowledge. It has engaged in skilling youth to empower them and held high the flag of traditional Siddha & Ayurveda practices.
02. I have been informed that Santhigiri Ashram has consistently upheld the tenets set forth by the revered नवज्योति श्री करुणाकर गुरु, the founding Guru of the Ashram. It now stands as a global beacon of spirituality and cultural harmony through the three vehicles of Annadhanam (अन्नदानम), Athurasevanam (आतुरसेवानम), and Athmabodhanam (आत्मबोधनम). Moreover, the Ashram has focused on the empowerment of youth and women as the path to a brighter future for the country.
03. Indeed, the Silver Jubilee celebrates the empowerment of Naari Shakti (नारी शक्ति) by Santhigiri Ashram, following as it does, the Vijayadashami Sanyasai Vaarshika Deeksha Mahotsav (विजयदशमी सन्यासी वार्षिक दीक्षा महोत्सव) event in October, when 22 dedicated Brahmacharinis (ब्रह्मचारिणी) were honoured with Sanyasini Deeksha (सन्यासीनी दीक्षा). This auspicious occasion heralded a new era for women's empowerment through spirituality, recognized by our Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modiji, when he conveyed his wishes to the Ashram.
04. It fills me with honour and pride to acknowledge that among the new Sanyasinis (सन्यासिनी) chosen to walk the enlightened path, two hail from the Delhi Ashram. My heartfelt gratitude to the Santhigiri Ashram for championing Naari Shakti through their contributions.
05. I understand that Santhigiri Ashram's journey in Delhi began with modest satsangs (सत्संग) in 1998. Under the guidance of Her Holiness Shishyapoojitha Amritha Jnana Tapaswini (शिष्यपूजिता अमृत ज्ञान तपस्विनी), who was the Guru Apparent, the Ashram witnessed the establishment of a prayer hall, the growth of the Santhigiri Ayurveda Hospital, and the launch of numerous social endeavours, including complimentary medical camps and mobile clinics. This mission has only continued to extending its benevolence far beyond the confines of Delhi, to enrich the lives of individuals in Rajasthan, Haryana, and the Northern states.
06. In an era where life's pace is relentless and materialism is pervasive, the Ashram offers a sanctuary of practical spiritual guidance and nourishment, upholding the ancient Bharatiya wisdom of universal well-being, “Sarve Jana Sukino Bhavanto” (सर्वे जन सुखिनो भवन्तु) and “Loka Samasta Sukino Bhavanto” (लोक समस्त सुखिनो भवन्तु). It is a profound joy to see the Guru-Shishya Parampara thriving at Santhigiri Ashram, a testament to the Ashram's commitment to Karmayoga (कर्मयोग) and the teachings of the Guru.
07. I am fascinated by the Nava Arogya Dharma Siddhantham (नव आरोग्य धर्म सिद्धान्तं), conceptualised by Navajyoti Sri Karunakara Guru. This doctrine is founded on the principle of respecting and honouring all streams of healthcare, weaving together modern methodologies and ancient Indian medicinal wisdom, thereby underscoring the profound importance of our venerable Ayurvedic and Siddha traditions.
08. The prestigious campaign of ‘Make in India’ by the Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji focuses on various key sectors of our economy, and one such pivotal sector is wellness. The AYUSH - Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy - sector has seen exponential growth in the production of medicines and supplements from just over $3 billion in 2014 to $18 billion in 2020, and it is anticipated to reach $24 billion in 2023.
09. I understand that Santhigiri Ashram operates Ayurveda Panchakarma Training Centres across Northern and North-Eastern India. Over the span of eight years, the Ashram has successfully completed 14 batches, training over 2,000 youths from sections below the poverty line. I commend this initiative that has not only provided livelihoods to thousands of unemployed youths but has also contributed to the thriving AYUSH industry.
10. The launch of the Santhigiri Institute for Skill Development marks a new chapter in its prolonged efforts to extend the benefits of skill development initiatives among deserving youths of our country. “Panchakarma”, being a tradition generally practiced in the southern part of India, particularly Kerala, is usually beyond the reach of the people in the north and northeastern side of the country.
11. I firmly believe that every young person deserves access to all possible opportunities. India stands at the threshold of a significant demographic moment. Currently, it is one of the youngest nations globally, with over 62% of its populace within the working age bracket of 15 to 59 years, and more than 54% of the population is under the age of 25. Our aim is to provide these young minds with the skills they need, thereby laying the foundation for an independent and sustainable future.
12. Having said that, the true advancement of a nation lies not solely in the empowerment through skill development but in the synergistic union of spiritual elevation with professional capabilities. True progress blossoms from this holistic approach. Similarly, a nation's overall well-being is not merely a matter of physical health; it must nurture the soul, mind, and body in unison. This centre is a testament to such comprehensive synergy.
13. I am indeed happy to inaugurate the Silver Jubilee Celebrations of Santhigiri Ashram, New Delhi. The Silver Jubilee Center is going to be a sanctuary where professional training and spiritual growth converge, promising a future illuminated by holistic well-being and enlightened progress. Let this stand as a poignant testament to the Ashram's enduring commitment to serve and heal the wounded hearts of humanity.
14. I once again wish Santhigiri Ashram and all well-wishers the best in their endeavours in the times ahead and offer my sincere prayers for one nation, one world.
Thank you.