Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Nov 1: Advising youth to stay disciplined and determined in shaping a united and progressive nation, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said that no matter the challenges, the journey of knowledge, peace and resolve must never stop.
Addressing at the International Seminar “Rahi ki Virasat” (The Legacy of Dr. Rahi Masoom Raza) the legendary writer, poet and thinker, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said, “I am pleased that this seminar has been organised to bring the thoughts and legacy of Rahi Masoom to life, much like the sacred flow from Gangotri to the earth.”
The Lieutenant Governor said that Dr Rahi Masoom Raza was undoubtedly one of the greatest writers of his time and earned a hallowed name for himself in India’s literary history.
He said, Rahi’s centenary year will begin on August 1, 2026, stating that his legacy is not confined to literature or films but represents a deep connection between the Ganga, Indian civilization and humanity. “If we remove Rahi from the essence of Ganga and Sanskrit, distortion will enter his legacy,” he said.
The Lt Governor recalled how Rahi never compromised with his principles, even during the Emergency. “When many in Bollywood remained silent, Rahi Sahab raised his voice,” he added.
LG Sinha said that Rahi’s writings inspired the youth to introspect and act with sincerity. “He wrote, Nayi nasal humari nasal se peeche hai; hamare paas khwab nahi the, inke paas jhoothe khwab hain” and through that he challenged the youth to find purpose beyond illusion,” he said.
Stressing the role of young people in shaping India’s future, the Lt Governor said, “Whatever happens, the journey must not stop. The youth have wings, but they must also have strength and discipline to continue the journey of peace and resolve. “No one should be allowed to break that spirit.”
He said that in recent years, a new consciousness has awakened across the country and every citizen wants to stand and contribute to ‘Viksit Bharat’. “I appeal to writers, scholars and thinkers to take forward Rahi’s legacy, to project the moral and cultural vision of India before the world,” he said.
The Lt Governor said India is now the world’s fourth-largest economy and will soon become the third-largest. “Our traditions have always valued unity and brotherhood, even as some people try to divide us on caste or religion. Such forces must be defeated by the collective will of our youth,” he said.
He described Rahi Masoom Raza’s contribution to Indian culture as timeless. “Rahi brought the Mahabharata closer to millions, even to those who never read it. His journey is one of truth, compassion and continuity and that journey must never stop,” LG Sinha said, adding, “Rahi was deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural traditions of the country and always believed in shared humanity that transcended Individual differences. He always promoted interconnectedness, inclusivity and peaceful coexistence and harmony among different faiths.”
The Lieutenant Governor said that the tangible and intangible legacy of Raza is priceless and a beacon of light to young generations.
“I believe the rich legacy of Dr. Rahi Masoom Raza will guide our society toward progress and prosperity by providing valuable ideas, ideals and fostering shared identity and social cohesion,” he added.
The Lieutenant Governor highlighted numerous important tasks before society and the nation today and called for strong national identity and the revival of wisdom of our priceless heritage to spur all-round development.
“Our cultural heritage can foster a collective identity, build resilience and solidarity among diverse groups to drive economic growth. We must learn from the past to gain self-confidence and let the historical lessons, wisdom, ideals guide us towards future opportunities for growth and innovation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor said, for holistic development, we must blend tradition with technology and focus on modern advancements in developmental journey to ensure equal opportunities to all.
“Our sole aim is to foster peace and prosperity to achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat,” he further said.
Prof Nilofer Khan, Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir; Prof. Naveen Chandra Lohani, Vice Chancellor, Uttarakhand Open University; Sameer Anjaan, Film Lyricist; Brij Mohan Sharma, Principal Secretary, Culture department; Asif Azmi, Director IDEA Communications and Convenor of the Seminar; Prof. Pervez Ahmed, Dean, Student Welfare Department; University of Kashmir; senior officials, prominent literary personalities and youth in large number attended the inaugural session at University of Kashmir.
