Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday lauded the contribution of Arya Samaj, founded by social reformer Dayanand Saraswati, in preserving India’s Vedic heritage and lamented that it had not received its due recognition in the freedom struggle because of political reasons. He also urged them to play a greater role in promoting the study of manuscripts and the practice of natural farming.

Addressing the International Arya Mahasammelan 2025 at Rohini, marking the 150th anniversary of the Arya Samaj and the ongoing bicentenary celebrations of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati, the prime minister appreciated the role of the organisation in the freedom struggle. Modi said revolutionaries such as Lala Lajpat Rai, Ram Prasad Bismil and many others drew inspiration from the Arya Samaj and dedicated everything to the cause. The Prime Minister expressed regret that, due to political reasons, Arya Samaj’s significant role in the independence movement did not receive the recognition it truly deserved.

“One hundred fifty years of the establishment of Arya Samaj... This occasion is not connected to just a part of the society or a sect. This occasion is connected to the Vedic heritage and identity of India,” Modi said at the function attended by Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, among others.

Representatives from 39 countries were also present at the four-day event as part of the 200th birth anniversary celebrations of Dayanand Saraswati and 150 years of the Arya Samaj.  “This occasion is connected to that idea of India, which holds the power of self-purification like the flow of the Ganga. It is connected to that great tradition, which has continuously advanced social reform and which gave ideological energy to countless fighters in the struggle for Independence,” he said.

Noting that since its inception, Arya Samaj has been an institution of staunch patriots, Shri Modi emphasized, “the Arya Samaj has fearlessly upheld and promoted the essence of Indianness.” He remarked that whether it was anti-India ideologies, attempts to impose foreign doctrines, divisive mindsets, or efforts to pollute the cultural fabric, Arya Samaj has always stood up to challenge them.

Modi highlighted that just two days ago, the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, flew in a Rafale fighter jet, accompanied by Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh. The Prime Minister remarked that today, India’s daughters are flying fighter jets and promoting modern agriculture as “Drone Didis.”

Recalling the recently launched the Gyan Bharatam Mission, aimed at digitizing and preserving India’s ancient manuscripts, the Prime Minister emphasised that this vast repository of knowledge can only be truly safeguarded when the younger generation connects with it and understands its significance.

The Prime Minister remarked that global initiatives like Mission LiFE, which are now gaining worldwide interest, have long been integral to the disciplined lives of Arya Samaj members. He praised their commitment to simple living, service-oriented values, preference for traditional Indian attire, environmental concern, and promotion of Indian culture.

From the dais, he offered salutations to these countless noble souls and honoured their memory.

Pointing to the issue of water conservation, the Prime Minister stated that the country is working through the Jal Jeevan Mission to deliver clean drinking water to every village, describing it as one of the most unique campaigns in the world. The Prime Minister also highlighted the success of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, noting that it is not a short-term initiative but a sustained movement for afforestation.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a true disciple of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati and a guiding force for the country’s holistic development and public welfare.  Expressing her gratitude to the prime minister, Gupta said his leadership reflects the very ideals of Saraswati. “Every initiative of the prime minister embodies compassion, equality and courage,” she said.