rajnath-singh-performs-shastra-puja-with-army-jawans

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh celebrated the festival of Vijaya Dashmi by performing the traditional Shastra Puja at Sukhana Cantonment, accompanied by Army jawans.

 

This ceremonial practice, which involves the worship of weapons, holds deep cultural significance in India. The Defence Minister engaged with the soldiers, applying tilak on their foreheads and sharing the essence of the celebration with them.

 

In his address to the jawans, Rajnath Singh extended his heartfelt greetings, acknowledging the importance of the occasion. He expressed his joy at being able to celebrate Vijaya Dashmi among the soldiers, highlighting how India is one of the few nations where weapons, or "Shastras," are revered and respected as part of cultural traditions.

 

He explained that this respect for weapons is not just a military custom but reflects a broader national practice, where individuals across professions honour their tools at least once a year.

 

Singh drew parallels between the reverence shown during Shastra Puja and other professions in India, noting that musicians, students, and farmers all honour their instruments, books, and tools as a mark of respect. The Defence Minister emphasised that this ritual is symbolic of the nation's deep respect for work and dedication to duty.

 

He also reflected on the historical and cultural significance of the day, reminding the jawans that Vijaya Dashmi marks the victory of Lord Ram over Ravan, a victory not just of a warrior but of humanity.

 

Rajnath Singh said that the virtues of Lord Ram could be seen in the soldiers of the Indian Army, who serve the nation with dedication, only engaging in conflict when provoked by an attack on India's culture or values. He emphasised that India's military ethos has always been based on defending the nation's honour, never on hatred or aggression.

 

Concluding his speech, the Defence Minister once again extended his wishes to the jawans and their families, expressing pride in their service and dedication.

 

He noted that the celebration of Vijaya Dashmi and the performance of Shastra Puja reflect the country's enduring cultural values and the strength of its armed forces.