THE Badrinaath Ashram, in collaboration with the Indian High Commission and Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, on Saturday hosted a significant event in Region Two, celebrating both World Sanskrit Day and Bharat Week.

The event, held at the Ashram in Spring Garden, featured a variety of cultural performances, including singing, dancing, bani singing, and prayers. A symbolic light was lit before the commencement of the programme.
Dignitaries such as India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr. Amit Telang, and his wife, Dr. Deepali Telang, attended, along with Shri Munesh Dhanraaj, founder of the Badrinaath Ashram, and other esteemed guests.
Dr. Amit Telang, in his keynote address, emphasised the historical and cultural ties between India and Guyana, commending the Ashram’s efforts to preserve Indian traditions.

He highlighted the importance of Sanskrit, not just as a religious language but also for its cultural richness and humour found in slokas. He urged attendees to respect their teachers and gurus and maintain their cultural heritage amid Guyana’s rapid development. Dr Telang also used the opportunity to congratulate the Ashram on the good work being done to preserve the culture in Essequibo.

Shri Rudra Jayanta Bhagawati, Director of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, explained the significance of Viswa Sanskrit Diwas and Bharat Saptah, noting that these events aim to revive and promote Sanskrit while showcasing India’s vibrant culture.

Bharat Week, he explained, serves to foster a deeper understanding of India through cultural presentations, food festivals, academic initiatives, and other activities.

The celebration culminated with certificates being awarded to Pandits who completed the Sanskrit examination, symbolising the ongoing effort to preserve and spread Indian cultural heritage in Guyana. There were also religious books on display which were written in Hindi and Sanskrit.