Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla addressed the Sant Kabir Mahotsav and foundation stone-laying ceremony of Kabir Smriti Bhawan at Kabirdham Ashram in Lakhimpur Kheri, Uttar Pradesh on October 28, 2026. He emphasized that while differences of opinion are natural in a democracy, disagreements must always be expressed with mutual respect and dignity. Birla highlighted Sant Kabir's teachings from six centuries ago, noting their continued relevance for promoting compassion, equality, and social harmony in contemporary society.
Birla recalled Sant Kabir's historical role in challenging social orthodoxies, caste distinctions, and religious differences through his simple couplets composed in common language that conveyed universal messages of truth, morality, and righteous conduct. He referenced Kabir's famous couplet about introspection - "बुरा जो देखन मैं चला, बुरा न मिलिया कोय; जो दिल खोजा आपना, मुझसे बुरा न कोय" - emphasizing the importance of self-reflection over finding faults in others.
The Speaker noted that individuals are remembered not for their positions but for their deeds and contributions to society, citing Sant Kabir's simple life and enduring influence as an example. He expressed confidence that the Kabir Smriti Bhawan would help disseminate Sant Kabir's spiritual wisdom and people-centric outlook to future generations and across all sections of society.
Birla paid respects to Sant Asang Dev Ji Maharaj, appreciating his dedication to social service and dissemination of Sant Kabir's teachings across India and beyond. The event was attended by Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Shri Keshav Prasad Maurya, Sant Asang Dev Ji Maharaj, several public representatives, saints, and a large number of Sant Kabir's followers.