Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Wednesday, 1 July 2025 pledged the Rajasthan government's full support for Lokmanthan-2026 at the curtain-raiser event held at the Constitution Club, Jaipur. The fifth edition of the cultural and intellectual conclave will be held under the theme 'Hum Bharat Ke Log' (We, the People of India), reflecting the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world as one family.

Rajasthan as the Cultural Host

Chief Minister Sharma described Rajasthan as a land of Shakti (strength), Bhakti (devotion), intellect, valour, and vibrant folk traditions. He said the state's rich folk arts, saintly traditions, and literary heritage embody India's cultural diversity, making it a fitting venue for the event.

He noted that it is a matter of pride for the state to host the fifth edition of Lokmanthan, an initiative that was first launched in Bhopal in 2016 under the theme of 'Liberation from Colonialism'. Hosting it in Rajasthan, he said, would add new dimensions to the conclave's legacy.

What Lokmanthan Stands For

The Chief Minister said the objective of Lokmanthan is to provide a common platform for thinkers, social practitioners, folk artists, artisans, academicians, policymakers, and youth who are inspired by the spirit of 'Nation First'. He added that the event has evolved into a platform for global dialogue on Indian civilisation, with representatives of Indian culture from across the world set to participate in this edition.

He also said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has transformed politics into a vehicle for nation-building, guided by the resolve of 'Nation First', and cited initiatives such as Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, Vocal for Local, Make in India, and Atmanirbhar Bharat as expressions of this vision. He further referenced landmarks including the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, Mahakal Lok in Ujjain, and the Somnath Temple as symbols of India's cultural renaissance.

Key Voices at the Curtain-Raiser

Union Minister for Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said India possesses one of the world's oldest cultural traditions and that Lokmanthan serves as a platform to reconnect people with this enduring heritage. He described the theme 'We, the People of India' as a collective call representing the aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians, and said the event is not merely about reflecting on the past but about drawing inspiration to build the future.

J. Nandakumar, Convener of the Pragya Pravah Committee, said Lokmanthan brings together people from diverse sections of society to engage in meaningful dialogue on the timeless values of ancient India. He noted that the discussions are intended not only to exchange knowledge but also to inspire a collective commitment to the welfare of every individual.

Deputy Chief Ministers Diya Kumari and Dr. Prem Chand Bairwa also addressed the gathering.

Launches and Cultural Performances

During the programme, the official Lokmanthan website was launched. J. Nandakumar's book, 'Folk Se Pare Lok' (Beyond Folk: The Essence of 'Lok'), was also released on the occasion. Folk artists from Rajasthan presented cultural performances, adding colour to the event.

Among the distinguished attendees were Dr. Ramesh Chandra Agarwal, Kshetra Sanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS); Padma Shri awardee and Alghoza maestro Tagaram Bhil; and Dhrupad vocalist Dr. Madhu Bhatt Tailang.

With Rajasthan's full governmental backing now formally declared, all eyes turn to the main edition of Lokmanthan-2026 and the scale of global cultural participation it will draw.