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| Ganga Aarti on London's Thames river reflects growing global resonance of Indian culture: Balbir | | |  Early Times Report
JAMMU, Sept 16: Former Vice Chairman and social activist Balbir Ram Rattan said that the first-ever Ganga Aarti held on the banks of the River Thames in London, is a significant cultural moment, reflecting the growing visibility and resonance of India's spiritual and civilisational traditions across the world.
Reacting to the historic ceremony organised recently at the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich, London, Balbir said that witnessing the traditional Ganga Aarti on the banks of one of Britain's most iconic rivers presented a remarkable confluence of Indian tradition and a globally recognised setting.
He said that Ganga Aarti is much more than a religious ritual. The lighting of lamps and collective prayers symbolise purity, gratitude, harmony with nature and the universal aspiration for peace and well-being. Taking such a tradition to the Thames provides people from different backgrounds an opportunity to experience an important aspect of India's cultural heritage.
Balbir said that Indians living abroad have played an important role in preserving their cultural roots while simultaneously contributing to the societies and countries in which they live. Events of this nature demonstrate how cultural traditions can travel across geographical boundaries and become occasions for interaction, understanding and mutual respect.
He said that India's ancient philosophy has always carried a universal message of peaceful coexistence and respect for humanity. Indian traditions, including yoga, meditation and various spiritual and cultural practices, have increasingly found audiences across different parts of the world.
Balbir also appreciated the environmentally responsible manner in which the ceremony was conducted, with organisers ensuring that ceremonial materials were not released into the Thames. He said that respect for nature is deeply embedded in Indian civilisation and such sensitivity makes cultural celebrations even more meaningful.
He said that the sight of Ganga Aarti on the banks of the Thames is a memorable symbol of cultural connection. It shows how traditions rooted in India can be shared internationally while respecting local surroundings and environmental responsibilities.
Balbir said that such cultural exchanges strengthen people-to-people connections and provide younger generations of the Indian diaspora an opportunity to remain connected with their heritage while sharing its values with the wider world. |
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