Mann congratulates Bal Jogi Pargat Nath & says that under his leadership, Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Tirath Sthal will be developed as international centre of Dalit faith
Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh-
The Bhagwant Mann government has appointed Bal Jogi Pargat Nath as Chairman of the Advisory Board of the shrine board of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Tirath Sthal, with a clear vision to develop the historic site on a large, international scale. The appointment underlines the Bhagwant Mann government’s intent to elevate Ram Tirath as a globally recognised centre of Dalit faith, heritage and spiritual philosophy.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann congratulated Bal Jogi Pargat Nath Ji and said that under his leadership, Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Tirath Sthal will be developed as an international centre of Dalit faith, attracting devotees, scholars and visitors from across the world.
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that Dalit communities have made a major contribution to the upliftment of India, and the Bhagwant Mann government is fully committed to honouring this contribution and taking it to every household. “Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Tirath Sthal is not only a sacred place of belief but also a site of immense civilisational importance, and its development on an international scale will ensure global recognition of the values of equality, dignity and social justice associated with Bhagwan Valmiki Ji,” he added.
Minister Harpal Singh Cheema noted the Bhagwant Mann government is working with a long-term vision to develop Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Tirath Sthal in a manner that presents the life, philosophy and timeless contribution of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji to the world on a global platform. “Effort is to transform Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Tirath Sthal into a landmark of international repute, where faith, history and learning come together, enabling people across countries to engage with the spiritual and intellectual legacy of Adi Kavi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji,” he noted.
The Punjab Finance Minister said, “Giving global recognition to Dalit faith and heritage is a matter of dignity and justice, and developing Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Tirath Sthal on an international scale reflects the government’s resolve to ensure that this legacy receives the respect and visibility it deserves worldwide.”
Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Tirath Sthal, the sacred hermitage of Maharishi Valmiki Ji near Amritsar, stands as a timeless symbol of faith, history and spiritual heritage
Located around 12 kilometres west of Amritsar on Chogawan Road, Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Tirath Sthal dates back to the period of the Ramayana and is revered as the hermitage of Maharishi Valmiki Ji. The sacred site houses an ancient holy tank and several temples, along with a hut that marks the place where Mata Sita gave birth to her twin sons, Luv and Kush. Also preserved at the Tirath are Maharishi Valmiki Ji’s hut.
A four-day fair has been held here since time immemorial, beginning on the full moon night in November. Situated nearly 16 kilometres west on Chogawan Road, Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Tirath Sthal continues to commemorate the enduring legacy and heritage of Maharishi Valmiki Ji.
Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Panorama stands as a lasting tribute to faith, heritage and dignity
The Bhagwant Mann government has translated respect for Dalit faith into visible and lasting action at Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Tirath Sthal. In October 2024, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann dedicated the state-of-the-art Bhagwan Valmiki Ji Panorama to the public at Bhagwan Shri Valmiki ji Tirath Sthal, Amritsar, calling it a humble tribute to Adi Kavi Bhagwan Valmiki Ji, the author of the world’s first epic, the Ramayana. Built over nine acres at a cost of ₹32.78 crore, the panorama blends advanced technology with deep narrative to present the life, philosophy and contributions of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji through 14 galleries, including depictions of his early life, the creation and features of the Ramayana, Mata Sita and Luv-Kush, Yog, Sanjeevani Vidya, the Ashwamedha Yagna, Yog Vashisht and his teachings. With modern visitor facilities such as a library, cafeteria and souvenir shop, the panorama reflects the Punjab government’s commitment to preserving faith, honouring Dalit spiritual heritage and ensuring that centres of belief are developed with dignity, sensitivity and purpose.