Gujarat Governor pays tributes to Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, Rajguru

Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat said the sacrifices of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev had given people the privilege of living in a free India. He was addressing a gathering as the chief guest at the ‘Vande Mataram’ programme, organised by the National Integrated Forum of Artists and Activists (NIFAA) on the occasion of the martyrdom day of the three great revolutionaries.

Advertisement

While inaugurating a blood donation camp at the OPS Vidya Mandir in the city, Devvrat narrated several inspiring incidents from the lives of the martyrs and described blood donation campaigns across the country as a true tribute to their legacy. He recalled that three generations of Bhagat Singh’s family had dedicated themselves to the service of the nation and shared a story about Bhagat Singh’s weight increasing before his execution, symbolising his unwavering spirit. The governor also remembered Abhay Singh Sandhu, the nephew of Bhagat Singh, and praised his contributions to social service. A total of 82 units of blood were collected at the camp.

As an advocate of zero-budget natural farming, Devvrat stressed the urgent need to eliminate chemical-based farming, highlighting its harmful effects on health.

The programme was presided over by brahma kumari Chandrika Didi, head of the art and culture wing of the Brahma Kumaris, who described blood donation as a sacred act and applauded NIFAA’s ‘Samvedna Campaign’ for its humanitarian efforts. In memory of Abhay Singh Sandhu, the NIFAA announced the institution of a new annual award, which would be presented every year on March 23 to people for their exceptional contributions to social service. This year, the first-ever ‘Sardar Abhay Singh Sandhu Memorial Award’ was conferred upon Swami Prem Murti, who has been actively serving society through the Karnal Manav Sewa Sangh for over six decades.

Governor Devvrat presented the honour in the presence of Teji Sandhu, wife of Abhay Singh Sandhu. Additionally, Dr Lajpat Rai Choudhri was recognised for his lifelong dedication to social service, support for Arya Samaj, and contribution to welfare initiatives with the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’.

The programme commenced with floral tributes to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, and Sukhdev, followed by a lamp-lighting ceremony in front of Bharat Mata’s portrait. In his welcome speech, NIFAA founder-president Pritpal Singh Pannu announced that 2,400 blood donation camps were being organised across the country between March 16 and 30 as part of the NIFAA’s tribute to the martyrs. The event featured patriotic performances by Dr Krishna Arora’s team and artistes from Mount Abu, including Satish and Nitin.