The essence of our Sanatan Dharma, the Hindu faith, lies in unity and generosity. It embraces all religions with respect and love, remaining steadfast in devotion to God. In this religion of humanity, there is no room for hatred. India alone exemplifies how faith and compassion walk hand in hand, complementing each other beautifully.
These days, Delhi seems to have transformed into a city of devotion. Everywhere you look, people are engaged in acts of virtue — and rightly so. The month of Kartik brings a chain of sacred festivals: after Dhanteras, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, and Bhai Dooj, came Gopashtami on October 30. The sight of beautifully adorned cows across the city’s shelters marked this day dedicated to Lord Krishna’s deep affection for cows. On Gopashtami, cows and calves are decorated, offered pure food, and worshipped — a true celebration of piety and gratitude.
Just yesterday, Lord Vishnu, who rests in the ocean of milk, was believed to awaken on Devuthani Ekadashi. Temples are now filled with a special energy as devotees offer prayers for the welfare of all beings. The sacred Tulsi Vivah is also performed at homes and temples during this time, considered the most auspicious of all Ekadashis. Hymns, songs, and kirtans fill the air with devotion.
From October 30 to November 2, the Arya Samaj is marking its 150th anniversary, while the Nirankari community holds its spiritual congregation. Yesterday, I had the honor of flagging off the ISKCON chariot procession at the Red Fort. The sight of devotees pulling the ropes and sweeping before the chariot of Shri Krishna and Balram is believed to free one from all suffering. Today, I will inaugurate a cow service ambulance in Shalimar Bagh, an initiative of the Senior Citizens’ Kesari Club. I will also receive recognition from the Arya Samaj, alongside several members being honored by the JBM Group for their contributions to society.
In the early hours between 4 and 7 a.m., our Sikh brothers and sisters, along with members of other religious groups, take out morning processions throughout Delhi during this sacred month. Chanting “Sat Naam,” “Wahe Guruji’s Mangal Shabad Kirtan,” “Nanak Naam Chardi Kala Tere Bhaane Sarbat Da Bhala,” and “Bhagwan Tum Kripa Karo,” they pray for peace and well-being while ringing bells and drums. It is believed that morning prayers are especially dear to God and fulfill all wishes.
As this festive season continues, Diwali has just passed, and soon, on November 5, Dev Diwali will illuminate Kashi. The famous Dev Diwali celebrations of Model Town in Delhi also attract thousands. On this day, it is said that all the deities descend to earth to light lamps on the ghats of Kashi — a sight unlike any other. November 8 will be observed as Ganesh Chaturthi, when devotees fast and offer prayers.
Delhi’s temples and gurudwaras have become the very heart of faith during this season. The lamps glowing in these sacred spaces inspire everyone who sees them. November 5 also marks Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth anniversary, coinciding with Kartik Purnima. Devotees flock to gurudwaras, offer prayers, and partake in langar as prasad is distributed throughout the city.
The sheer abundance of religious and cultural events this month is extraordinary. Just two days ago, the International Arya Conference in Rohini honored the legacy of Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati Ji, attended by Prime Minister Modi himself. The Nirankari community, too, is holding a major spiritual gathering in Delhi. Across the city, countless events are unfolding — including the Shrimad Bhagwat Katha in Punjabi Bagh, conducted by Mridul Shastri Ji and hosted by Nirmal Singla Ji and her husband. Thousands of devotees are immersed in the divine nectar of these sacred stories.
From sunrise to moonrise, the glow of festivals shines everywhere, inspiring people to serve humanity. This spirit of compassion and faith is the very essence of Indianness — a value unseen anywhere else in the world. It is said that where there is cleanliness, there dwells divinity. Our gurudwaras are shining examples of this truth, maintaining spotless surroundings with selfless service around the clock. True worship lies in such devotion.
Let us draw inspiration from this and make cleanliness a part of both our worship and our lives. In doing so, we can truly bring heaven to earth. May our celebrations during the month of Kartik embody our faith, our love for humanity, and our shared commitment to goodness. This is our true religion — to live for the welfare of all. This is the message of Indianness: “Let there be brotherhood among all humans — that is our message.”
