Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday lauded the Arya Samaj as an organization that has “fearlessly spoken about Indianness” and described it as a body of staunch nationalists and patriots.
Addressing the International Aryan Summit held as part of the “Jyāna Jyoti Festival”, commemorating the 200th birth anniversary of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati and 150 years of Arya Samaj’s societal service, PM Modi highlighted the organization’s pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle and social reform.
“Revolutionaries like Lala Lajpat Rai and Ram Prasad Bismil drew inspiration from the Arya Samaj,” PM Modi stated, emphasizing the organization’s deep-rooted connection with India’s fight for independence. However, he regretted that due to political reasons, Arya Samaj’s significant contribution to the freedom movement did not receive the honour it deserved.
The prime minister underscored that the celebrations are not confined to any one community or sect but represent the “Vedic identity of India”. He praised Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati as a visionary who understood that India’s true progress required not only liberation from colonial rule but also the eradication of social evils like discrimination and untouchability. “Swami Dayanand actively opposed discrimination and untouchability, urging society to strive for inclusiveness and equity,” Mr. Modi remarked.
He further reflected on India’s eternal civilization, rooted in Vedic traditions that have endured through centuries as great personalities have risen to meet evolving challenges.
Highlighting modern India’s achievements, PM Modi pointed to the rise of women in leadership roles across science, technology, and defense. “Just two days ago, President Droupadi Murmu flew a Rafale fighter aircraft accompanied by Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh,” he said. “Today, daughters of the country are flying fighter jets and promoting modern agriculture as Drone Didis.”
He also proudly noted that India has the highest number of female STEM graduates worldwide and is a global voice for sustainable development.
The event also featured addresses by Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta. Representatives from Arya Samaj units across India and abroad gathered to reflect on Maharshi Dayanand’s reformist ideals and the organization’s global outreach.
An exhibition titled “150 Golden Years of Service” showcased Arya Samaj’s transformative journey through contributions to education, social reform, and spiritual upliftment, reinforcing its enduring legacy in Indian society.
The prime minister’s remarks reaffirmed Arya Samaj’s role as a fearless challenger of anti-India ideologies and divisive mindsets, continuing its mission to preserve Indian culture and values both nationally and internationally.