Dussehra Marks Victory of Righteousness and Justice, Says President Murmu
President Droupadi Murmu celebrates Dussehra in Dwarka, highlighting the victory of justice over injustice and the importance of nature.
President Droupadi Murmu extended her heartfelt greetings to the nation on the occasion of Dussehra, describing the festival as a powerful celebration of righteousness and justice prevailing over unrighteousness and injustice. The President shared these reflections while attending the festivities at the Shri Ram Leela Committee ground in Dwarka Sector 10, where she joined citizens in honoring the timeless values of the epic Ramayana.
Lord Ram as the Embodiment of Morality
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu emphasized that Lord Shri Ram is viewed as the ultimate embodiment of moral conduct and righteousness. She noted that the tradition of Ramlila performances, held extensively across India and globally, serves as a vital medium for millions of people to contemplate and reflect upon the noble ideals that guided Lord Ram's life.
"On the grand festival of Dussehra, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to everyone. I offer my warm Dussehra greetings to all my fellow countrymen. This festival celebrates the victory of righteousness and justice over unrighteousness and injustice," the President stated.
A Call to Respect Nature
Moving beyond the battle between good and evil, President Murmu highlighted the profound environmental consciousness embedded in the Ramayana. She pointed out that the epic stresses the purity of air and water, the splendor of gardens and flora, and the deep bond between humans, birds, and animals.
To illustrate this interconnectedness, she cited several key figures and events from the epic:
- The roles of Kak Bhusundi, Jatayu, and Jambavan.
- The contribution of the smallest creatures in building the bridge across the sea.
The President further linked these spiritual values to modern governance, noting that India's tradition of respecting nature is enshrined in the Constitution, which lists the preservation of forests, wildlife, lakes, and rivers as fundamental duties of every citizen.
Messages of Equality and Social Harmony
President Murmu also touched upon the social dimensions of the Ramayana, highlighting episodes that promote affection and equality. She specifically mentioned Lord Ram's interaction with Nishad Raj and his acceptance of the half-eaten berries offered by Mata Shabari, stating that these simple yet profound moments convey a message of social harmony.
Drawing a parallel with India's spiritual history, she referenced the teachings of poet-saints and social reformers like Sant Kabir and Sant Ravidas, who identified the 'Ultimate Truth' through the name of 'Ram'. She expressed satisfaction that contemporary India is progressing toward the ideals of inclusivity and equality depicted in the ancient epic.
Celebrations in Dwarka
The event culminated in the traditional Ravan Dahan, the burning of Ravana's effigy. The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Delhi Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh, and Dwarka Shri Ramlila Committee President Akash Gehlot.
President Murmu concluded by congratulating the members of the Dwarka Shri Ramlila Committee for their dedication to keeping cultural traditions alive and bringing the story of the Ramayana to thousands of spectators.