Surat, October 25, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Sunday laid the foundation stone for a proposed ISKCON temple worth Rs 125 crore at Kosmada in Surat district, urging religious institutions to connect spiritual teachings with humanitarian service, youth empowerment and nation-building.
Patel performed the foundation-laying rituals and offered oblations during a Narsingh Yagna organised as part of the ceremony. A felicitation programme was also held to recognise donors who contributed to the project.
Addressing the gathering in the presence of Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani, Health Minister Praful Pansheriya and Rajya Sabha MP Govind Dholakia, the Chief Minister said preserving India’s spiritual and cultural heritage alongside development was consistent with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi”.
Referring to the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, Patel said its teachings offered guidance for dealing with everyday challenges and encouraged people to move from confusion towards understanding and fulfil their responsibilities with a sense of duty.
He highlighted the principles of self-knowledge, disciplined thinking and selfless action, saying that incorporating these values into daily life could strengthen families, promote social harmony and provide an ethical foundation for development.
Patel stressed that devotion should extend beyond worship and religious rituals to include service to humanity. He also called for efforts to keep young people away from addiction and channel their energy towards constructive activities and nation-building.
Expressing confidence in the proposed temple’s future role, he said it could emerge as a centre for spiritual learning, cultural awareness, youth empowerment and humanitarian service.
Earlier, ISKCON Varachha president Murtiman Das outlined the temple’s development plans. Patel also honoured donors and prominent members of society for their contributions. Students who had cleared the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita examination conducted across Asia were felicitated.
Among those attending were Gujarat Assembly Deputy Speaker Purnesh Modi, MLA Pravin Ghoghari, Surat Mayor Maya Mawani and representatives of ISKCON Gujarat.
FOLLOW NOW
