New Delhi: The historic structure of Delhi Vidhan Sabha stood magnificently, bathed in the vibrant hues of saffron, white, and green, as the melodious tunes of Bollywood singer Kailash Kher and his Kailasa band echoed across its lawns. In a first, Delhi govt announced grand celebrations for the Hindu New Year, Chaitra Shukla Pratipada Nav Samvatsar, featuring a series of cultural and religious events, including a large-scale falahar party during Navratri.
Amid a Diwali-like mood, thousands gathered to enjoy Bollywood and devotional songs by Kher. Chief minister Rekha Gupta said the people of Delhi were now witnessing the “change” brought by the BJP govt.
In her address, the chief minister pointed out that while Delhi had seen previous govts, the current administration had set new paradigms, referring to the event at the Assembly. “For the first time, people of Delhi are witnessing the Hindu New Year being celebrated with such grandeur,” she asserted.
Stressing that the occasion was more than just a festival, she said it held a deep connection to Indian traditions, an inspiration for future generations, and a means to root them in the nation’s culture. Gupta also noted that Delhi Assembly had adopted the Hindu New Year celebration and affirmed that her govt would continue to celebrate it annually.
Art and culture minister Kapil Mishra said the Delhi govt would also hold events on the occasions of Ram Navmi, Hanuman Jayanti, Baisakhi, and Ambedkar Jayanti. Assembly speaker Vijender Gupta, addressing the gathering, emphasised the need for a “national cultural policy” to ensure “cultural literacy” for future generations.
“This is not just a task for the govt, but a responsibility of all Indians, as cultural traditions cannot be learned through books alone,” he said. Gupta said the massive turnout demonstrated the deep faith people have in Sanatan Dharma and the culture of the country. He emphasised the need for people to understand their responsibilities toward preserving Sanatan Dharma and protecting cultural heritage. He also highlighted that Indian culture is a confluence of human values, inspired by Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.
Earlier, CM Gupta joined the Shobha Yatra in Pitampura to mark Vikram Samvat. CM Gupta also visited the Maa Katyayani Temple in Chhatarpur. Speaking on the festival’s significance, she said the Hindu New Year is not just a calendar event but a celebration of Sanatan culture, traditions, and national identity.
She highlighted India’s journey toward re-establishing itself as a Vishwaguru (world leader), citing global recognition of yoga and ayurveda.
