Grand celebration held at Ramlila Ground Pathankot to mark Hindu New Year Samvat

Pathankot, April 12, 2026: The grand state-level function to mark Hindu New Year Samvat was organised by the Punjab Government at Ramlila Ground in Pathankot district. The event was presided over by Vijay Sharma, National President of Sanatan Hindu Sangathan. Prominent leaders including Manish Sisodia, In-charge Punjab Aam Aadmi Party, Cabinet Ministers Aman Arora and Lal Chand Kataruchak and Tourism and Cultural Affairs Punjab Advisor Deepak Bali graced the occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Tourism and Cultural Affairs Advisor Deepak Bali described the day as historic and transformative for Punjab, saying that in the 75-year history post-independence, this was the first instance when a government displayed the resolve and vision to organise a state-level celebration dedicated to Sanatan culture.
Praising Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann-led government, he termed the function as a reflection of inclusive governance and equal respect for all faiths. He criticised previous regimes for neglecting the cultural sentiments of the Hindu community, asserting that the Mann government has set a new precedent within a short span.
He further said that the initiative signifies a governance philosophy rooted in equal respect for all religions and traditions. Referring to past political parties such as Congress, Akali Dal and BJP, he said that none had envisioned celebrating Hindu New Year at such a scale, while the Mann dispensation has demonstrated true secularism.
Expressing gratitude, Deepak Bali thanked Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal, Punjab In-charge Manish Sisodia and the entire government for acknowledging the sentiments of the Hindu community and granting cultural recognition to Sanatan traditions. He added that the government believes in action rather than rhetoric.
Thanking the large gathering of devotees, he said the event would be remembered by future generations as a milestone in building an inclusive Punjab where all cultures and traditions receive equal respect. He also remarked that while earlier governments remained entangled in vote-bank politics, the Mann government has redefined governance standards.
Manish Sisodia, while addressing the gathering, said that Hindu New Year is not merely a festival but a symbol of ancient culture, traditions and life values. He said that celebrating it officially reflects the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting cultural heritage.
He added that Sanatan tradition is not just a religious concept but a way of life that teaches tolerance, respect and welfare of all. Stressing interfaith harmony, he urged people to respect all religions equally as a hallmark of true humanity.
In his address, Cabinet Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak said that Punjab has always stood as a symbol of communal harmony and religious tolerance. He cautioned that divisive thinking harms society and called upon people to promote unity and love. The true essence of religion lies in service to humanity, said the Cabinet Minister, highlighting the government’s commitment to welfare and development.
Cabinet Minister Aman Arora highlighted the role of saints and spiritual leaders in guiding society towards moral and spiritual paths. He said the New Year provides an opportunity for introspection and self-improvement and urged citizens to adopt truth, honesty and ethical values in their lives.
Prior to the formal commencement, Punjabi singer Roshan Prince presented devotional hymns dedicated to Hindu culture and Sanatan traditions, setting a spiritual tone for the event.
At the outset, the chief guests and dignitaries honoured Sanatan leaders by presenting ceremonial shawls. The large gathering witnessed participation from eminent personalities belonging to religious, social and political spheres. Notably, this marked the first time the Punjab Government officially celebrated Hindu New Year at the state level, enhancing the significance of the occasion.
Representatives of various religious organisations and enlightened citizens from the district participated with enthusiasm. The event commenced in accordance with religious traditions and blessings for the New Year were bestowed by revered saints present on the stage. The atmosphere remained deeply spiritual and culturally vibrant throughout.
The function concluded with a vote of thanks and heartfelt New Year greetings extended to all attendees. The atmosphere at the conclusion remained filled with joy and enthusiasm as people exchanged greetings and celebrated together. The event at Ramlila Ground, Pathankot will be remembered as a significant step towards strengthening social unity, cultural heritage and communal harmony.