Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta participated in three major programmes on the occasion of Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti. These programmes include the Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti Mahotsav at the Delhi Secretariat, the Adikavi Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti Celebration at the NDMC Convention Centre, and another event in Shalimar Bagh, Haiderpur. Paying homage to the revered saint, the Chief Minister described Maharishi Valmiki’s life and works as “timeless beacons of equality, humanity, and collective progress.”
Addressing the gatherings, the Chief Minister said that through his immortal epic, Ramayana, Maharishi Valmiki guided society towards the ideals of truth, compassion, and righteousness. She said his teachings continue to inspire generations, showing how a harmonious society can be built where every individual’s contribution matters. “Through the stories of Shabari’s berries, Kevat’s boat, and the little squirrel’s effort, Maharishi Valmiki taught us that no one is insignificant. Every person, regardless of their position, plays a vital role in building a better society,” she said.
The Chief Minister announced that Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti will henceforth be observed as a public holiday in Delhi every year. “This will allow citizens to celebrate the festival with devotion and pride,” she said, adding that the Delhi Government has, for the first time, supported a large number of organisations to ensure celebrations on an unprecedented scale across the capital. The events were attended by Cabinet Ministers Ravindra Indraj Singh and Kapil Mishra, NDMC Chairperson Keshav Chandra, Vice-Chairperson Kuljeet Chahal, MLAs, and several dignitaries. The Chief Minister also lauded the NDMC’s recent decision to regularise around 4,500 employees, calling it a “progressive step that upholds the values of equality, dignity, and social justice.” She said this move ensures both security and respect for workers who have served the public for years.
Highlighting her Government’s cultural vision, the Chief Minister said Delhi is emerging as the “Cultural Capital of India”, where all faiths and traditions are celebrated with equal respect. “From Kanwar Yatra and Ramlila to Durga Puja and Valmiki Jayanti, Delhi honours every religion and every tradition. This inclusivity represents the true essence of Ram Rajya,” she said.
Cabinet Minister Ravindra Indraj Singh said that a special initiative was taken this year by bringing the sacred flame of Bhagwan Valmiki from Punjab and installing it at Ramlila venues across Delhi.
“This sacred flame symbolises unity and harmony and embodies the ideals of Bhagwan Valmiki. His message continues to guide us toward discipline, compassion, and service,” he said.
Cabinet Minister Kapil Mishra said it is the nation’s good fortune to celebrate the teachings of Sanatan Dharma and Maharishi Valmiki’s vision. “Our aim is to ensure that Maharishi Valmiki’s timeless message of equality, compassion, and human dignity reaches every citizen,” Mishra said.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta concluded her address by saying that Valmiki’s philosophy continues to light the path toward an inclusive and just society. “His life reminds us that transformation is possible through wisdom, compassion, and service. These are the principles that must guide governance and society alike,” she said.