Sabarkantha, April 4 A new complex of Shri Bhagwan Yagyavalkya Ved Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya was inaugurated on Saturday in Mudeti village in Gujarat's Sabarkantha district, with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel saying that the institution would serve as a centre for preserving Vedic knowledge while advancing students for contemporary roles.
The three-day inauguration ceremony was held in a spiritual setting, attended by Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Sadanand Saraswati, who offered blessings at the event.
Chief Minister Patel was also honoured with the 'Sadadharma Samaj Seva Ratna' by the Bhagwan Yajnavalkya Veda Tatvagyan Yogashram Trust.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the inauguration marked more than the opening of a new facility.
"This Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya is not merely an institution, but a sacred centre of consciousness that will illuminate Sanatan knowledge and Vedic traditions," he added.
The Chief Minister said that the National Education Policy introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi places emphasis on reconnecting young people with India's cultural roots.
"This complex will help realise the vision of 'Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi' by fostering traditional knowledge among the new generation," Chief Minister Patel said, expressing confidence that students would emerge not only as scholars but also as contributors to nation-building.
Highlighting the importance of Sanskrit, the Chief Minister said the language remains the foundation of India's Vedic and philosophical traditions.
"Without Sanskrit, it is impossible to fully understand our history," he said, noting that institutions such as Somnath Sanskrit University and the Gujarat State Sanskrit Board are working towards its preservation.
He also added that alongside Sanskrit, students in the remote area would receive education in subjects such as English and computer studies.
Referring to the broader national context, Chief Minister Patel said the institution would contribute to the goal of 'Viksit Bharat @ 2047', aligning with the call to take pride in India's cultural heritage during the 'Amrit Kaal' of Independence.
Swami Sadanand Saraswati, in his address, described Sanskrit as the foundation of India's spiritual and intellectual heritage.
"Sanskrit is not merely a language but the source of the knowledge and values passed down by our sages," he said.
He added that the integration of education and values at the new complex would prepare future generations to carry forward Vedic knowledge and promote Indian culture globally.
He also emphasised the message of unity in diversity and described the institution as a confluence of education and cultural values.
The Mahavidyalaya traces its origins to the efforts of Narmadashankar Bhavanishankar Shukla, who established the Veda Vidyalaya with the aim of preserving the teachings of the Shukla Yajurveda and the Upanishads.
The trust was re-established in 1988 with Narmadashankar Bhavanishankar Shukla, support from Anantdev Harishankar Shukla and Vaidyaraj Aniruddh Shukla, inspired by Pandurang Shastri.
The institution formally took shape on February 17, 1997, and has since expanded into a centre for Vedic learning.
Among those present at the event were trustee Uday Mahurkar, State Minister P.C. Baranda, legislators, office-bearers, and students.
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