Maharishi Valmiki’s ideals of equality, compassion remain timeless, says CM

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday paid tributes to Maharishi Valmiki on his birth anniversary, describing his teachings as an enduring guide for equality, humanity and collective progress.

The CM attended multiple programmes held across the city, including the Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti Mahotsav at the Delhi Secretariat, the Adikavi Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti Celebration at the NDMC Convention Centre, and a special gathering in Shalimar Bagh, Haiderpur.

“Through his immortal epic, the Ramayana, Maharishi Valmiki showed society the path of ideals, righteousness, and compassion,” the CM said, adding, “His life reminds us that no individual is insignificant and that every contribution, whether of Shabari, Kevat, or the squirrel, plays a vital role in building a just and harmonious society.”

She said that Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti would now be observed as a public holiday in Delhi every year, enabling citizens to celebrate the occasion with full devotion. For the first time, the Delhi Government has also extended support to a wide range of organisations to ensure that this year’s celebrations are held on an unprecedented scale across the capital.

The CM praised the NDMC’s decision to regularise around 4,500 employees, calling it a progressive step aligned with the principles of equality and social justice. “This decision safeguards the rights of employees and ensures their stability and dignity,” she said.

Emphasising her government’s commitment to inclusive development, Gupta said, “Our goal is to ensure that basic facilities such as education, healthcare, housing and employment reach the last person in society. Delhi’s progress is possible only when every section advances equally.”

Citing the government’s vision of establishing Delhi as the Cultural Capital of India, the CM said, “From Kanwar Yatra and Ramlila to Durga Puja and Valmiki Jayanti, Delhi celebrates every faith and tradition with equal respect. This is the true vision of Ram Rajya.”

Cabinet Ministers Ravindra Indraj Singh and Kapil Mishra, NDMC Chairperson Keshav Chandra, Vice-Chairperson Kuljeet Chahal, and several MLAs and dignitaries were present at the events.

Minister Ravindra Indraj Singh highlighted a special initiative this year — the sacred flame of Bhagwan Valmiki which was brought from Punjab and installed at all Ramlila venues across Delhi, symbolising unity and harmony. “To realise Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, we must walk the path shown by Maharishi Valmiki one of discipline, values, and service,” he said.