Giriraj Singh pays tribute on Valmiki Jayanti
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
On the annual observance of Valmiki Jayanti, Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh extended greetings to the nation on Monday, 26 October 2026, honouring the ancient sage regarded as the author of the Sanskrit epic Ramayana and revered as Adi Kavi — the first poet.
In his message posted on X, Singh wrote: 'महाकाव्य 'रामायण' के रचयिता, आदि कवि महर्षि वाल्मीकि जी की जयंती पर आप सभी को हार्दिक बधाई एवं शुभकामनाएं!' — 'Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all on the birth anniversary of Maharshi Valmiki, the Adi Kavi and creator of the epic Ramayana!'
Valmiki's place in India's literary and spiritual tradition
Maharshi Valmiki is traditionally regarded as the composer of the Valmiki Ramayana, one of the two great Sanskrit epics of ancient India. The epic chronicles the life and ideals of Lord Rama — his dharma, sacrifice, and righteous conduct — and remains a living text recited, staged, and celebrated across the subcontinent. Valmiki's contribution is considered foundational: the first shloka (verse) of the Ramayana is widely regarded as the origin point of Sanskrit poetry itself.
Singh's message called the sage's life 'a source of inspiration for all of us' and invited people to resolve to walk the path he showed — an invocation of values the Ramayana enshrines: duty, renunciation, and dignity. 'आइए, उनके दिखाए मार्ग पर चलने का संकल्प लें' — 'Let us resolve to walk the path he has shown.'
Valmiki Jayanti and its observance across India
Valmiki Jayanti falls on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Ashwin and is observed each year with recitations, processions, and cultural programmes across India. Communities devoted to the sage's memory — particularly the Valmiki community — mark the day with particular fervour in states such as Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh. It is a moment when political leaders across the spectrum typically issue public messages acknowledging the sage's legacy.
For BJP figures, honouring the Ramayana's author carries resonance beyond the ceremonial — it aligns with a sustained emphasis on India's classical and spiritual heritage as a pillar of national identity. Singh, a senior leader and Lok Sabha MP from Begusarai, Bihar, has been consistent in marking such cultural observances publicly.