Amit Shah addresses 'Shashwat Mithila Mahotsav-2025' in Gandhinagar

Union Minister of Home and Cooperation, Amit Shah on Sunday evening, addressed the 'Shashwat Mithila Mahotsav-2025' in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, highlighting the rich cultural and intellectual heritage of Mithila and its significant contributions to the nation. The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Gujarat Chief Minister  Bhupendra Patel and Rajya Sabha Member Sanjay Kumar Jha.  Speaking on the occasion, Shah acknowledged the contributions of people from Bihar, particularly those from Mithilanchal, to the development of Gujarat. He emphasized Gujarat's inclusive spirit, stating that the state has always welcomed diverse communities and provided opportunities for all. He assured the Mithila community that they are respected, safe, and integral to Gujarat’s progress. Shah highlighted Mithila's historical legacy as a center of scholarship, intellectual discourse, and philosophical traditions. He noted that Mithila has been the birthplace of great scholars, including Yagyavalkya, Rishi Gautam, Mandan Mishra, and poets like Jyotireshwar Thakur and Mahakavi Vidyapati. He emphasized that Mithila’s intellectual contributions are deeply embedded in ancient scriptures such as the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Vedas, and Puranas.
He also pointed out that Mithila has been a hub for philosophical debates (Shastrartha), mentioning the famous debates between King Janak and Yagyavalkya, as well as Mandan Mishra and Adi Shankaracharya. He asserted that Mithila’s tradition of resolving issues through dialogue has had a lasting impact on India's knowledge systems.
Shah underlined the immense contributions of Mithila’s women throughout history. He honored scholars like Maitreyi, Gargi, and Bharti, who played crucial roles in shaping intellectual and spiritual traditions. He specifically noted Bharti’s role in adjudicating the historic debate between Mandan Mishra and Adi Shankaracharya, highlighting the region’s reverence for knowledge and wisdom.
Shah reiterated that Mithila is the sacred birthplace of Mata Sita, who symbolizes Indian cultural values, ideal womanhood, and sacrifice. He expressed confidence that a grand temple dedicated to Mata Sita will soon be built in Mithila, serving as a global beacon of ideal living and cultural heritage.He further elaborated on Mithila’s democratic traditions, stating that its legacy can be traced back to Videha, where Mahatma Buddha recognized the unity and resilience of its people. He emphasized that four of the six major philosophical schools—Sankhya, Nyaya, Mimansa, and Vaisheshika—originated from Mithila, showcasing its deep-rooted intellectual contributions to Indian philosophy.
Shah commended the Mithila community in Gujarat for preserving their cultural identity while contributing to the state's progress. He mentioned the establishment of a facility in Gandhinagar to support the Mithila community and the installation of a statue of Mahakavi Vidyapati, honoring the region’s literary and cultural heritage.

(State Correspondent)