Swami Govindadev Giriji Maharaj Says “The Vedas Are the Soul of Indian Culture”
Pune: The Bharatatma Veda Awards 2025, instituted in memory of Bharatatma Shri Ashokji Singhal, were presented at the Dadasaheb Darode Auditorium in Pune. Swami Govindadev Giriji Maharaj graced the ceremony, while Acharya Pradyumnaji Maharaj attended as chief guest.
Speaking at the event, Swami Govindadev Giriji Maharaj emphasised that the Vedas form the soul of India, describing them as the source of knowledge and the foundation of Indian culture. He added that Ashokji Singhal’s life was deeply anchored in Vedic values.
Salil Singhalji, chief trustee of the Singhal Foundation, highlighted the objectives and nine-year journey of the awards. He explained that the honours are presented annually in three categories—Outstanding Veda Student (₹3 lakh), Ideal Veda Teacher (₹5 lakh) and Best Veda Institution (₹7 lakh)—with an online application and selection system to ensure transparency.
Awardees of 2025
- Outstanding Veda Student: Nori Kedareswar Sharma (Hyderabad), Krishna Yajurveda scholar trained in Vedangas, classical Sanskrit texts, and advanced grammar.
- Ideal Veda Teacher: Ananta Krishna Bhatt (Chennai), noted editor, scholar of Nyaya and Mimamsa, and expert in Krishna Yajurveda.
- Best Veda Institution: Shri Dattatreya Veda Vidyalaya (Rajamahendravaram), recognised for 25 years of traditional Veda teaching, recitation training, and preservation of the Krishna Yajurveda tradition.
The final shortlist also featured students Kedareswar Sharma (Sambhajinagar) and Shrinidhi Svanand Dhaygude (Pune); teacher Swanand Shivram Dhaygude (Pune); and institutions Shankaramath Veda Vidyalaya (Villupuram) and Shri Sarvaraya Veda Vidyalaya (Kapileshwarapuram).
The Bharatatma Veda Awards aim to preserve and promote India’s Vedic heritage, inspiring future generations of scholars and institutions.
