RS PURA, Nov 13: J&K Jat Sabha today celebrated the 246th birth anniversary of legendary Sikh ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh with great enthusiasm and reverence at the Sabha’s headquarters in R.S. Pura. The programme was organised by Ranjit Singh Goldy, Senior Vice President, J&K Youth Jat Sabha, along with Rishav Choudhary, General Secretary, J&K Youth Jat Sabha, and Rahul Choudhary. The celebration was attended by J&K Jat Sabha President Manjit Singh, Chief Patron and former MP T.S. Bajwa, Patron Choudhary Jagar Singh, Treasurer Kamal Randhawa and Chanan Singh, among others.
Addressing the gathering, J&K Jat Sabha President Manjit Singh paid rich tributes to Maharaja Ranjit Singh, popularly known as Sher-e-Punjab, describing him as one of the most remarkable rulers in Indian history whose courage, administrative capabilities, military leadership and commitment to inclusive governance continue to inspire generations. He said Maharaja Ranjit Singh established a powerful empire through exceptional leadership and political vision, bringing different communities together and recognising merit irrespective of religious backgrounds. His reign remains an important chapter in the history of the subcontinent and reflects the values of courage, secularism, religious tolerance and social harmony.
On the occasion, Manjit Singh strongly demanded the installation of a grand statue of Maharaja Ranjit Singh at a suitable and prominent location in Jammu to honour his historical contribution and provide inspiration to future generations. He disclosed that J&K Jat Sabha had already taken up the matter with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah through a formal written communication and had also met him personally to press for the demand. He expressed hope that the government would consider the proposal favourably and take appropriate steps to fulfil the long-pending demand.
Manjit Singh also demanded the inclusion of dedicated chapters on Maharaja Ranjit Singh in the school curriculum so that students could learn about his extraordinary contribution to the history of Jammu and Kashmir and the subcontinent. He observed that the Maharaja’s historical association with the region, his military campaigns, administrative vision and role in shaping the political history of Jammu and Kashmir deserve appropriate recognition in educational textbooks. He said educating the younger generation about such historical personalities was essential for preserving cultural heritage and developing a deeper understanding of the region’s history. He called upon the government and education authorities to take necessary steps in this direction.
Chief Patron of J&K Jat Sabha and former MP T.S. Bajwa also paid glowing tributes to Maharaja Ranjit Singh, describing him as an extraordinary historical personality whose contribution to the political and military history of the subcontinent remains significant. He said the Maharaja’s inclusive approach, administrative vision and respect for different religious communities made his reign an important example of governance. He stressed that remembering such great historical personalities was essential to connecting the younger generation with its heritage and inspiring them to uphold the values of courage, unity and selfless service.
Speaking on the occasion, Ranjit Singh Goldy, Senior Vice President, J&K Youth Jat Sabha, said the celebration was organised with the objective of honouring the glorious legacy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and familiarising young people with his extraordinary achievements. He said the youth must take inspiration from the Maharaja’s bravery, determination, leadership and commitment to society. He added that J&K Youth Jat Sabha would continue organising programmes to preserve the community’s historical heritage and promote awareness among the younger generation about great personalities who shaped the region’s history.The programme concluded with a renewed pledge to preserve the glorious legacy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and promote the ideals of unity, courage, brotherhood and social responsibility.