In a celebration marking the 42nd Foundation Day of Sri Sri Mahanaam Angan and the inauguration of a ‘Bhaktaabas’ in Agartala, Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath delivered a message emphasizing the universal welfare and prosperity principles of Sanatan Dharma, irrespective of religion or caste.
Minister Nath inaugurated a blood donation camp as part of the commemoration event, witnessing the participation of 32 volunteers who donated blood for a noble cause. Additionally, the Mahanam Bhaktabas was inaugurated by Srimat Jagattaran Das Brahmachari Maharaj, the secretary of Mahanaam Moth in Sridham Nabadwip.
Addressing the gathering against the backdrop of recent controversial comments on Sanatan Dharma by DMK leader Stalin, Minister Nath defended the ancient spiritual tradition. He stated, “Sanatan Dharma is facing challenges, but it is not limited by caste or creed. The term ‘Sanatan’ signifies eternality, and it is open to all. Sanatan Dharma is about praying for the betterment of humanity and all living beings on Earth.”
Minister Nath also acknowledged the global contributions of Dr. Mahanaambrata Brahmachari as a torchbearer of Sanatan Hindu religion. He noted that Dr. Brahmachari was the second person, after Swami Vivekananda, to deliver a speech in Chicago.
Continuing his discourse on Sanatan Dharma, Nath emphasized the foundation of ‘Manav Dharma’ (the religion of humanity) within the tradition. He highlighted the inclusivity and unity of the Sanatan Dharma, asserting that it embraces all principles. This, he said, is why Hinduism’s followers often refer to themselves as Sanatani.
Nath commended the blood donation camp initiative, remarking that blood donation is one of the greatest acts of service to humanity, aligning with the true essence of religion.
The event also featured the presence of Padma Shri award recipient Swami Sivananda Maharaj, aged 128, from Varanasi, along with other dignitaries from the Mahanam Community in Bangladesh and India. Mayor of the Agartala Municipal Corporation, Deepak Majumder, and several other esteemed individuals attended the celebration, which underscored the importance of unity and welfare principles in Sanatan Dharma.
