Fearless society can build a strong nation, says Rajnath Singh at Mahashivaratri celebrations at Isha Yoga Centre

Coimbatore: Defence minister Rajnath Singh said a society governed by fear cannot remain secure in the long run and that only a fearless society can build a strong nation.Speaking at the 32nd Mahashivaratri celebrations at the Isha Yoga Centre in Coimbatore on Sunday evening, he said fearlessness is not merely the outcome of physical power but is rooted in a strong spiritual core that steadies individuals and, by extension, the nation.
He noted that the armed forces serve people during crises with humanitarian assistance and empathy, reflecting a protective spirit, while also retaining the capability to respond with intensity when required. Citing operations such as Operation Sindoor, he said such actions demonstrate a Rudra-like resolve, where firmness and clarity are essential. He added that the discipline and strength of Indian soldiers are deeply connected to the country's cultural foundations and the inspiration drawn from Lord Shiva.He argued that real security cannot depend only on external power, resources, or material capability. According to him, true security arises from strong national consciousness and shared inner confidence. Singh said India's greatest strength lies in cultural unity and a spiritual ethos, and he added that the government has worked to present this spirit on the global stage. Pointing to Yoga, he called it a priceless gift India has offered to the world in a renewed and expanded form. He said missions such as Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, and Aditya-L1 represent modern expressions of an ancient scientific spirit embedded in India's cultural identity. He added that science and spirituality seek the same truth, expressed through different languages and methods.Sadhguru said Mahashivaratri is a special night and spoke about being at one's best, adding that not doing what one can do is a disaster.Dr N. Rajam (violinist), Alarmel Valli (classical dancer), Dr Nambi Narayanan (scientist), A S Kiran Kumar (scientist), Dr Vikram Sampath (historian), and Saina Nehwal (badminton player) received the "Bhavya Bharat Bhushan" award. Three institutions of armed forces—Western Air Command, Army's Southern Command, and Western Naval Command—were also felicitated for the success of Operation Sindoor. Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union minister of state L Murugan, former AIADMK minister S P Velumani, DMDK general secretary Premalatha Vijayakanth, and TVK president Vijay's mother Shoba Chandrasekar were also present at the celebrations. More than two lakh people attended the event.