Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, 26 October extended greetings to the nation on the occasion of Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti, honouring the revered sage's enduring contribution to Indian culture and heritage. In a post on X, Modi described Valmiki's teachings as the foundational pillars of Indian civilisation that would continue to guide generations.

In his post, Modi said: 'Heartfelt greetings to all on the auspicious occasion of Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti. His noble thoughts have been the foundational elements of Indian culture and heritage, which will continue to nurture and flourish the nation in every era. His invaluable messages for humanity will forever serve as guiding lights for the people of this country.'

Union Ministers and Chief Ministers Join the Tributes

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari also paid tributes to Maharishi Valmiki on his birth anniversary, extending greetings to fellow citizens. Posting on X, Gadkari said: 'On the Jayanti of Adikavi Maharishi Valmiki Ji, the creator of the epic Ramayana, heartfelt salutations to him. Warm wishes to all fellow countrymen on Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti.'

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also paid tributes, drawing attention to the Ramayana's timeless ideals. In his post on X, he said: 'On the sacred Jayanti of the Adikavi Maharishi Valmiki Ji, who through his magnum opus Ramayana brought the character of Lord Shri Ram and the eternal values of Sanatan culture to every individual, millions of salutations. The character of Lord Shri Ram is a living symbol of the immortal ideals of truth, propriety, sacrifice, and the fulfilment of duty. Even today, the Ramayana continues to inspire all humanity to move forward on the path of righteousness, ethical conduct, and the welfare of the world.'

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Pays Her Respects

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also conveyed her greetings on the occasion, acknowledging the sage's role in preserving and spreading the story of Lord Shri Ram through the Ramayana. In a post on X, she said: 'On the occasion of the Jayanti of Adikavi Maharshi Valmiki Ji, the creator of the Ramayana, who enshrined the sacred tale of Lord Shri Ram in the hearts of one and all, I offer millions of salutations and extend my heartfelt best wishes to all fellow citizens of the country.'

Gupta further said: 'Through his divine composition, Maharshi Valmiki Ji has immortalized the glory of Lord Shri Ram, His superhuman character, and the great ideals of dharma, truth, and honor for ages to come. His eternal words embody the power of devotion to Ram, the pride of Sanatan culture, and the timeless message for the welfare of all humanity.'

Who Was Maharishi Valmiki

Maharishi Valmiki Jayanti is observed annually to mark the birth anniversary of the sage who composed the Ramayana, one of the two great Sanskrit epics of ancient India. Valmiki is widely regarded as the Adi Kavi — the first poet — in Sanskrit literature, and his literary and spiritual legacy continues to hold a significant place in India's cultural and religious traditions. The occasion is observed across the country with prayers, processions, and community events.

Significance Across Political Lines

The breadth of tributes from senior leaders — spanning the Centre, a major state government, and the national capital — underscores the cultural resonance of Valmiki Jayanti in contemporary Indian public life. This comes amid a period of heightened national discourse around Sanatan culture and its place in modern India. Notably, Maharishi Valmiki is revered not only as a literary figure but also as a spiritual icon, particularly within several communities across north and central India.

As tributes continue to pour in from across the political spectrum, the day serves as a reminder of the Ramayana's unbroken hold on the nation's moral and cultural imagination.