146th Jayanti Celebrations of Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi and Release of Commemorative Coin

I touch and salute the holy feet of Bharat Mata – the Most Powerful and the Most Merciful.

President, Sri Ramana-asramam, Tiruvannamalai (Tamil Nadu), Dr. Venkat S. Ramanan Ji, President Ramana Kendra Delhi, Justice K. Ramamoorthy Ji (Retd.) Vice-President, Ramana Kendra Delhi, Dr. (Smt.) Tuk-tuk Kumar Ghosh Ji, IAS (Retd.) Secretary, Ramana Kendra Delhi, Shri B. Ganeshan Ji and others.

It gives me great pleasure to be present on this auspicious occasion marking the 146th Jayanti of Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi, one of the most revered spiritual sages of modern India. Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi occupies a distinguished place in the spiritual and civilizational heritage of our Nation. His life and teachings represent the essence of India’s timeless quest for truth, self-knowledge, and inner freedom. His profound teaching of Atma Vichar or Self enquiry, and his emphasis on inner realisation have inspired seekers across the world, establishing him as one of India’s most universally respected spiritual masters. At a time of profound social and intellectual transformation, Bhagavan reaffirmed the eternal wisdom of India – not through elaborate discourse or institutional doctrine, but through the quiet power of silence, simplicity, and direct inner experience. At a very young age, Bhagavan realised the truth of the Self. Drawn by the spiritual power of the sacred Arunachaleswara  he lived a life of renunciation combined with supreme inner fulfilment.

Without formal scholarship, without institutional backing, and without deliberate propagation, he radiated a wisdom so compelling that it continues to draw seekers from across India and the world—scholars and saints, householders and seekers alike. Indeed, his life itself was his message. Bhagavan’s central teaching of Self-enquiry offers a practical and enduring path to inner clarity, even while engaging fully with the responsibilities of daily life. In today’s complex and fast-changing world, Bhagavan’s emphasis on self-awareness and inner discipline holds special relevance for leadership, governance, and citizenship alike. He affirmed that all spiritual paths – whether of devotion, knowledge, meditation, or selfless service—ultimately lead to the same Truth. His message transcends religious and cultural boundaries and continues to guide spiritual aspirants across India and the world. Sri Ramana Maharshi’s compassion extended equally to human beings, animals, and all living creatures, reflecting values that resonate deeply with India’s civilizational ethos.

For over a hundred years, Sri Ramana asramam has remained steadfast in its mission, serving as a sanctuary for all who seek inner transformation through the teachings of Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi. I am happy to note that Sri Ramanaasramam, along with Ramana Kendras in India and abroad, continue to play a vital role in preserving and disseminating his timeless wisdom. I am also pleased to note Sri Ramana asramam’s many community service initiatives, including free medical dispensaries, free meals for sadhus and the underprivileged, and commendable efforts in environmental conservation. Over the decades, several National leaders and eminent personalities have visited the Ashram and drawn inspiration from its serene and elevating environment. It is well known that Mahatma Gandhi ji, during the freedom movement, would often send freedom fighters to the Ashram to gain strength, clarity, and solace. Among them were leaders such as Dr. Rajendra Prasad ji, Sarojini Naidu ji, and Jamnalal Bajaj ji.

The release of Commemorative Coin by the Ministry of Finance, Government of India, is a fitting tribute to the enduring spiritual influence of Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi and to the historic role of Sri Ramana asramam. This commemorative coin will serve not merely as a numismatic honour, but as a lasting reminder of India’s rich spiritual heritage and its message of inner awakening to the world. Our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modiji has also time and again emphasized that India’s spiritual heritage is not confined to the past, but is a guiding force for the present and the future. On this auspicious occasion, I extend my warm greetings and best wishes to all devotees and followers of Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi in India and across the world. On this occasion, let us reflect on how Bhagavan’s teachings can guide us in our personal lives as well as in our collective responsibilities. The true homage to a sage such as Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi lies not merely in celebration, but in our sincere effort to embody the values he stood for simplicity, self-awareness and kindness. May the teachings and grace of Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi continue to illuminate our minds and guide our Nation towards greater harmony, wisdom, and inner strength. Jai Hind! Long Live Mother Bharat!