Ropar, April 6, 2025 — The 56th Foundation Day of Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal (BSM) was celebrated with great zeal and spiritual fervor on the auspicious occasion of Ram Navami at IIT Ropar today. The celebrations began at 11:00 AM and brought together esteemed dignitaries, scholars, faculty members, and students in a vibrant display of cultural and intellectual unity.
The event commenced with the formal introduction of the distinguished guests on stage. The dignitaries included Shri Rajeev Ahuja Ji, President of BSM Punjab and Director of IIT Ropar; Shri Ashok Thakur Ji, Joint Secretary of BSM, Punjab Prant; Shri Amrittesh Ji, IKS expert from IIT Ropar; and Sadbhuja Prakash Prabhu Ji from ISKCON, who was the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker. The proceedings were conducted by Shri Rajeev Garg Ji, Joint Secretary, BSM Punjab.
The program began with the chanting of the Dhyeya Shloka by Dr. Gaurav Ji from Panjab University, Chandigarh, followed by the recitation of the Dhyeya Vakya by Shri Ranjan Walia Ji.
In his address, Shri Ashok Thakur Ji spoke about the vital role of Bharatiya Shikshan Mandal in shaping the nation’s future. He highlighted the relevance of spiritual principles like the Dhyeya Vakya and emphasized the transformative value of internalizing such values. He also stressed the timeless guidance offered by the Bhagavad Gita, encouraging the youth to seek wisdom and ethical clarity through its teachings.
Shri Rajeev Ahuja Ji delivered an inspiring speech centered on the Guru-Shishya tradition, calling for its revival in modern India. He shared personal reflections on overcoming stress and failure with positivity and underscored the significance of Saraswati Pooja, linking knowledge with prosperity. He also outlined BSM’s future initiatives and highlighted IIT Ropar’s ongoing work in Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) and the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Following this, Shri Amrittesh Ji explained the spiritual and astrological significance of Ram Navami and emphasized the cultural relevance of IKS. He also announced the upcoming launch of IKS-related courses at IIT Ropar.
The keynote address by Sadbhuja Prakash Prabhu Ji from ISKCON deeply resonated with the audience. Speaking on the theme of leading a noble life, he drew from the life of Lord Ram as the ultimate example of ideal character. He shared ancient wisdom, emphasizing that while wealth and health are transient, character is paramount. Drawing from Niti Shastra and Chanakya’s teachings, he discussed values such as brahmacharya, aparigraha, and viveka (discernment), linking them to modern challenges like corruption. He also acknowledged and appreciated IIT Ropar’s introduction of a Bhagavad Gita course, describing it as a transformative step for Indian youth.
Prabhu Ji concluded with a devotional Ram Bhajan, expressing his vision of India as a future Vishwa Guru (world leader).
The event concluded with the chanting of the Kalyan Mantra by Shri Rajeev Garg Ji, followed by a group photograph and refreshments. The gathering ended on a high note, filled with camaraderie, reflection, and a shared vision for a culturally rooted and spiritually enriched India.
