Una, February 22: Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri visited Dera Baba Shri Rudranand Ashram in Nari, Una district, on Sunday and participated in the first annual Shraddha ceremony of the late Vedantacharya Swami Shri Sugrivananda Ji Maharaj, offering floral tributes and paying heartfelt homage.
On this occasion, he recalled the spiritual legacy of the revered saint and said that Swami Sugrivananda Ji Maharaj was a living embodiment of penance, sacrifice, and devotion. His entire life was dedicated to public welfare and spiritual upliftment, which will always remain a source of inspiration for society.
The Deputy Chief Minister also participated in the coronation ceremony of Swami Hemanand Ji Maharaj, the head of the Ashram, and extended his best wishes. He expressed confidence that under the guidance of Swami Hemanand Ji Maharaj, the Ashram will provide new direction and heights to the work of spiritual awakening, service, and public welfare.
Shri Agnihotri said that Swami Sugrivanand Ji Maharaj was a profound scholar of all four Vedas and a rare saint. His passing plunged the entire state into mourning. His funeral was conducted with full state honors, and a holiday was declared in Una district, a testament to the deep reverence of the government and society for him.
He said that the saint tradition is the foundation of Indian culture, paving the way for moral values, service, and harmony in society. Himachal is a land of gods, and the state government is fully committed to the preservation of religious and spiritual institutions and the promotion of cultural heritage.
The ashram premises were filled with reverence, devotion, and spiritual energy during the event.
MLA Vivek Sharma, former MLA Satpal Raijada, Congress District President Deshraj Gautam, along with numerous dignitaries from the religious and social fields, and a large number of devotees were present on the occasion.