Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday attended the annual Harbah festival at Anantnag and paid obeisance to Goddess Sidh Lakshmi. He also extended greetings to devotees participating in the annual religious event.

The Lieutenant Governor described the Harbah festival as a profound occasion of devotion, gratitude and spiritual awakening. He said Teerathraj Lok Bhawan at Anantnag, with its serene surroundings, stands as a living symbol of India’s timeless spiritual tradition.

“Every stone, every stream and every breath here reflects the immortal consciousness of our Sanatan culture and spiritual heritage, which has guided humanity for centuries on the path of truth, compassion and dharma,” he said.

Recalling the historical significance of the shrine, Sinha referred to its ancient name, Lokpunya, as mentioned in Kalhana’s Rajatarangini. He said the annual ‘havan’ and flag-hoisting ceremony continue to rekindle the values of devotion, service, sacrifice, patience and social harmony.

The Lieutenant Governor also spoke about the challenges of modern life, observing that while science and technology have brought the world closer, they have also contributed to growing loneliness and social divisions. He stressed that spiritual values must remain the foundation of society and underscored the importance of unity, compassion and mutual respect.

“The Harbah festival reminds us that true devotion is reflected through service to humanity, mutual respect and selfless love,” he said.

Outlining his vision for a peaceful and prosperous society, Sinha made three key appeals. He said spiritual values should guide both individual and institutional conduct to strengthen trust and prosperity. He also emphasised that mental and spiritual well-being must receive equal importance alongside physical health in today’s fast-paced world, while urging the nurturing of responsibility among youth through selfless service and dedication to the nation.

Calling upon the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor urged them to remain connected not only with modern education but also with their cultural and spiritual roots. “True knowledge is realised through humility, and its strength becomes sacred when used in the service of others,” he said.