Rivers Are Witnesses to Indian Culture: Former President Ram Nath Kovind

Calls for Strengthening the Spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat”

Nashik, May 2026 : Former President of India Ram Nath Kovind said that rivers are not merely water bodies but living witnesses to India’s rich cultural heritage, traditions, and social life. He emphasised that river conservation and environmental protection are the collective responsibility of every citizen and called for strengthening the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”

He was addressing the gathering during the Godavari Maha Aarti programme organised by the Ramteerth Godavari Seva Samiti in Nashik.

National Commission for Women Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, Mayor Himgauri Aadke-Aher, Shantaram Shastri Bhanose, FICCI President Milind Kamble, Jayant Gaydhani, along with dignitaries from various fields, citizens, devotees, and members of different sections of society were present at the event in large numbers.

Speaking on the occasion, Kovind highlighted Nashik’s spiritual, cultural, and historical significance. He said the city has earned recognition across the country as a sacred and inspirational land because of its association with Lord Shri Ram, Panchavati, and the Godavari River.

He noted that the Godavari Maha Aarti has become an important platform for spreading awareness about river cleanliness, environmental protection, and social responsibility. According to him, the initiative is not only religious in nature but also serves as a meaningful campaign to inspire people towards river conservation and ecological awareness.

Kovind observed that people from all sections of society come together to participate in the Maha Aarti, creating a strong sense of social harmony and national unity. Despite differences in language, traditions, and beliefs, Indian culture binds people together through a common thread of unity, he said.

Referring to the Indian philosophical concept of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — meaning “the world is one family” — the former President appealed to citizens to further strengthen the country’s long-standing tradition of unity and brotherhood.

He also expressed his hope for continued peace, prosperity, harmony, and mutual respect across the nation.

Kovind praised the inspirational work being carried out by the Godavari Seva Samiti and extended his best wishes to the organisation for its efforts in promoting environmental awareness and cultural values.

During the programme, FICCI President Milind Kamble said that the strength of India’s thousands-year-old civilisation lies in its social unity, mutual respect, and cultural traditions.

On the occasion, dignitaries also unveiled the “Godavari Smaranika,” a commemorative publication dedicated to the river and the event.

Former President Ram Nath Kovind and his wife also performed traditional पूजा of the Godavari River during the ceremony.