Dehradun, 27 November 2025
Exhibition showcases Uttarakhand’s glorious and elevated culture; grand display of great personalities, freedom fighters, and contemporary themes
The grand “Rani Abbakka Exhibition,” the main attraction of the ‘Bhagwan Birsa Munda Nagar’ established for the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad’s National Convention in Dehradun, was inaugurated today by Patanjali Yogpeeth General Secretary Acharya Balkrishna as the Chief Guest, and Uttarakhand’s Minister for Education, Health and Cooperation Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat as the Exhibition Inaugurator. The theme of the exhibition is “From Devbhoomi to Rashtra Bhoomi – Uttarakhand’s 25-Year Journey and National Renaissance in the context of Vision 2047.”
The exhibition highlights ABVP’s ideological roots, national and state-level campaigns, the organization’s role in student union elections, freedom movement heroes, and icons of cultural renaissance. ABVP karyakartas from across the country, distinguished guests, school students, and eminent citizens of Uttarakhand were present on the occasion.
In the exhibition, Rani Abbakka has been presented as one of the supreme symbols of Indian identity, feminine valor, and national devotion, with the aim of inspiring the younger generation. The exhibition also features the heroic tales of Uttarakhand’s warriors such as Teelu Rauteli and Madhav Singh Bhandari, along with many other local heroes. Glimpses of the state’s spiritual heritage, mountain lifestyle, traditional ornaments, agricultural tools, and hill architecture connect visitors with local culture. Prominent religious sites, temples, mythological locations, festivals, and folk dances of Uttarakhand—including the Nanda Raj Jat Yatra, Jagar tradition, and various local deities—are attractively showcased.
Special pavilions dedicated to Adi Guru Shankaracharya, Gaura Devi, Swami Ramtirth, Veer Chandra Singh Garhwali, Madhav Singh Bhandari, Govind Ballabh Pant, and the rich folk traditions of Uttarakhand have also been set up. Overall, the Rani Abbakka Exhibition stands as a vibrant portrayal of ABVP’s ideology, work, history, and organizational expansion, while reinstating the contribution of an indomitable heroine like Rani Abbakka in national discourse. It embodies a unique confluence of Indian tradition, social consciousness, and cultural diversity.
Chief Guest Acharya Balkrishna, General Secretary of Patanjali Yogpeeth, said, “It brings immense joy that the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad’s National Convention is being held in Uttarakhand for the first time. The enthusiasm of all present here is even more gratifying. Being associated with a value-based organization like ABVP is a matter of pride and virtue. ABVP karyakartas bring positive change in the lives of others through their conduct and life values. The grand Rani Abbakka Exhibition beautifully presents her courage and brilliance. The portrayal of Uttarakhand’s unique traditions by students is truly commendable. ‘Nation First’ is our foremost mantra, and we are all carriers of the ancient Gurukul tradition. We must all contribute to the ongoing efforts for cultural and spiritual awakening.”
Exhibition Inaugurator and Uttarakhand’s Minister for Education, Health and Cooperation, Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat, said, “When I was an ABVP worker, I always wished that the National Convention be organized in Uttarakhand. For the first time, this wish is being fulfilled. On behalf of the people of Uttarakhand, I extend a heartfelt welcome to all ABVP karyakartas. It is a matter of great pride that ABVP workers serve tirelessly throughout the year. It is also noteworthy that eight Education Ministers across the country today come from the ranks of this organization. I urge everyone to visit this magnificent exhibition and be associated with such a dedicated organization.”
ABVP National Secretary Aditya Takiyar welcomed everyone and said, “ABVP’s National Convention is going to commence tomorrow on this sacred land of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. India has always been a land of the brave, and the extraordinary valor of Maharani Abbakka stands as a shining example of this spirit. The exhibition set up at the ‘Bhagwan Birsa Munda Nagar’ is dedicated to this heroic queen. Visitors will witness inspiring glimpses of Uttarakhand’s lofty culture, freedom fighters, great personalities, and themes of contemporary relevance.”
The event was graced by Chief Guest Acharya Balkrishna, Exhibition Inaugurator Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat, ABVP National Vice President Prof. Ashutosh Mandavi, National Secretary Aditya Takiyar, State Central University Coordination In-charge Aman Pant, and Uttarakhand State Vice President Pragati Bharatwal.
