Bilal Bhat
Sundarbani (Jammu 13 January 2026 ): In a powerful display of spiritual leadership and communal harmony, His Holiness Shri Swami Vishwatamanand Saraswati Ji, the revered Acharya Mahamandleshwar and Pithadishwar of the historic Atal Akhada, presided over a grand Lohri celebration at the Gayan Ganga Shivkashi Ashram in Sundarbani, drawing thousands of devotees from across regions.
The gathering marked a significant spiritual occasion as Swami Vishwatamanand Saraswati Ji, the 1008th Acharya in an unbroken and ancient monastic lineage, addressed devotees and visitors with a message rooted in peace, unity, and universal brotherhood. The celebration went beyond ritual observance, emerging as a rare confluence of tradition, spirituality, and social consciousness.
As sacred Lohri flames illuminated the Ashram premises, the atmosphere resonated with devotional chants and a deep sense of collective harmony. The ceremonial lighting of the bonfire symbolised the burning away of ignorance, hatred, and division, reinforcing the timeless spiritual message of inner purification and social cohesion.
Addressing the gathering, the Acharya emphasised that true spirituality lies not in division but in recognising the oneness of humanity. Drawing from the philosophical foundations of Sanatana Dharma, he underscored that all religions ultimately converge on the values of compassion, peace, and service to mankind.
Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of the event, Swami Vishwatamanand Saraswati Ji made a strong appeal for global harmony. “Across the world today, humanity is witnessing immense pain, suffering, conflict, and moral disintegration. Religion must never become a tool for division. Every faith teaches peace, love, and coexistence. The need of the hour is dialogue, compassion, and collective healing,” he said.
He further stressed that spiritual leaders carry a moral responsibility to rise above narrow identities and work towards easing human suffering, whether caused by war, poverty, injustice, or social discord. “When the world is burning in conflict, the role of spiritual institutions is to become centres of solace, unity, and hope,” he added.
The Acharya’s address found resonance among devotees, scholars, and visitors, many of whom described the event as spiritually uplifting and socially relevant. The Ashram, for the day, transformed into a space reflecting interfaith respect and collective prayer for global peace.
Observers noted that Swami Vishwatamanand Saraswati Ji represents a rare synthesis of ancient spiritual authority and contemporary relevance. As the head of the Atal Akhada, an institution historically associated with spiritual discipline and moral courage, his emphasis on harmony and coexistence was seen as particularly significant in present times.
The Lohri celebration at Gayan Ganga Shivkashi Ashram concluded with prayers for peace, prosperity, and the well-being of all humanity, leaving behind a message that transcended religious boundaries and spoke directly to the conscience of a troubled world.
