Culture – Rajnath Singh Calls Heritage Protection Vital for India
Culture – Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday underlined the importance of safeguarding India’s spiritual and cultural traditions, saying that protecting the nation’s heritage is as crucial as defending its territorial boundaries. He was addressing a gathering at the three-day Samadhi Mandir Murti Sthapana ceremony held in Haridwar, where several political and spiritual leaders were present.
Heritage as the Soul of a Nation
Speaking at the religious event, Singh said that a country’s long-term stability depends not only on military strength but also on its cultural continuity. According to him, nations that neglect their traditions and civilisational values risk weakening their internal unity over time.
He emphasised that India’s history and spiritual foundations have played a defining role in shaping its national character. While borders are defended by armed forces, he noted, cultural heritage must be preserved collectively by society. Singh urged citizens to recognise that cultural preservation is a shared responsibility that extends beyond institutions and governments.
Call for Broader Cultural Nationalism
During his address, the Defence Minister encouraged people to expand their understanding of nationalism. He said the idea should move beyond conventional definitions tied solely to territory and governance, and instead embrace what he described as “cultural nationalism.” In his view, this broader approach acknowledges India’s spiritual traditions, languages, customs, and values as central pillars of the nation.
Singh observed that the global landscape is evolving rapidly due to technological advancements and geopolitical shifts. In such times, he said, India’s saint tradition offers moral guidance and continuity. He described saints and spiritual leaders as enduring symbols of the country’s civilisational depth, adding that their teachings have helped maintain social harmony across generations.
Spiritual Traditions and Social Stability
Referring to India’s long-standing spiritual heritage, Singh said that the teachings of saints have provided direction during periods of uncertainty. He stressed that these traditions have strengthened social cohesion and instilled ethical values among communities.
According to the minister, preserving temples, historical sites, and cultural practices contributes to maintaining a strong national identity. He remarked that cultural heritage should not be viewed as a relic of the past but as a living force that continues to influence contemporary society.
The ceremony in Haridwar served as a platform to highlight these themes, drawing participation from various leaders and religious figures. The event marked the installation of an idol at the Samadhi Mandir, a significant moment for devotees and followers associated with the site.
Leaders Attend Haridwar Ceremony
Among those present at the ceremony were Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. Their participation underscored the importance attached to the occasion by political leadership at both state and central levels.
The gathering combined religious observance with discussions on national values, reflecting the close link often drawn between spirituality and public life in India. The presence of senior leaders also highlighted the role such cultural events play in reinforcing broader narratives about heritage and identity.
Singh concluded his remarks by reiterating that a strong nation requires both secure borders and a deeply rooted cultural foundation. He said that while the armed forces remain vigilant in protecting India’s sovereignty, society must remain equally committed to preserving its traditions and civilisational ethos.
As debates around national identity continue in public discourse, the Defence Minister’s comments placed renewed focus on the idea that cultural heritage and national security are interconnected elements of India’s future.