Daijiworld Media Network - Jammu
Jammu, Sep 20: Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said preservation of history, sacred knowledge and values rooted in Dharma is the lifeline of a nation.
Sinha laid the foundation stones for projects worth Rs 7.15 crore for the renovation, restoration and revival of the ancient heritage of Purmandal in Samba district, and another set of works worth Rs 6.85 crore for the renovation, restoration and related development of the sacred Uttervehini site.
Addressing the gathering, Sinha said the initiative was not merely about repairing bricks and stones but about reconnecting the nation's glorious past with its future.
“A nation that forgets its heritage loses its foundation. But a nation that respects, preserves and revives its roots ensures that its future generations stand with confidence, resilience, self-belief and a strong sense of identity,” he said.
Sinha said Purmandal, blessed by the sacred Devika River, had for centuries been visited by saints, sages and spiritual seekers. Its ancient temples, stone carvings, sacred ponds and historical structures, he said, reflected outstanding architectural and artistic achievements, much of which had diminished over time due to neglect.
The old Lakshmi Narayan Temple, old Shiva Temple and old Ram Temple at Purmandal, along with historic temple complexes at Uttervehini, will be restored using a combination of modern conservation techniques and traditional architectural aesthetics, he said.
The Lt Governor said the restoration would also help establish Jammu and Kashmir as a leading destination for spiritual and cultural tourism. Improved infrastructure, pathways and lighting would provide better connectivity for pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi Ji, Shiv Khori, the Raghunath Temple and Baba Amarnath Ji, while facilitating access to the spiritual tranquillity of ‘Chhoti Kashi’.
Highlighting the economic potential of heritage tourism, Sinha said it would benefit local handicrafts, hospitality, homestays, transport and food establishments, creating livelihood opportunities for youth and new markets for artisans and small entrepreneurs.
He said the restoration and renovation of the sacred sites would directly benefit people living in surrounding areas.
“By improving access to these sacred places and enhancing their grandeur and dignity, we are opening the doors to the divine spiritual experience of Purmandal and Uttervehini for spiritual seekers arriving from different parts of the country and the world,” he said.
Sinha said every restored structure, pathway and visiting tourist would contribute to the economic prosperity of the region.
He also stressed the inter-generational importance of the project, saying exposure to preserved centuries-old art and culture would instil pride among the youth and strengthen their connection with their roots.
“Our active efforts today to preserve our heritage will bear the fruits of cultural self-confidence, moral strength and social harmony for generations to come,” he said.
Sinha said preserving cultural identity was as important to the journey towards a developed India as building highways, digital networks and industrial corridors.
“Physical development gives momentum to the region and cultural heritage gives society direction and soul,” he said.
The Lt Governor reiterated his commitment to strengthening road connectivity to Purmandal and Uttervehini. He also appreciated the Samba district administration for providing land for the Mata Devika Ved Pathshala in Purmandal.
He said funds for construction of the Ved Pathshala would soon be sanctioned through the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.
On the occasion, Sinha also launched the GCC Gurha Slathia magazine.
Vijaypur MLA Chander Prakash Ganga, Principal Secretary, Culture Department, Brij Mohan Sharma, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, IGP Jammu Tejinder Singh, DIG JSK Range Shridhar Patil, Samba Deputy Commissioner Ayushi Sudan, Director, Archives, Archaeology and Museums K.K. Sidha, Vishwa Hindu Parishad J&K president Rajesh Gupta, Dharmarth Trust president Dr P.S. Pathania, senior officials, religious heads, prominent citizens, youth and devotees attended the foundation stone laying ceremony.