Jammu, Sep 23 (KNO): Streets in Jammu came alive with fervor and unity on Tuesday as thousands gathered to honor the 130th birth anniversary of Maharaja Hari Singh, the last Dogra ruler of the erstwhile princely state of Jammu and Kashmir.
The day, observed as a public holiday across the Union Territory, saw processions, rallies, and tributes that underscored the enduring legacy of the visionary leader known for his progressive reforms and commitment to justice.
According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the celebrations kicked off early with a massive rally organized by the Yuva Rajput Sabha (YRS), which snaked through the heart of Jammu city, drawing participants from diverse communities chanting slogans in praise of the Maharaja.
Members of the Shri Amar Kshatriya (Rajput) Sabha gathered at Maharaja Hari Singh Park near Jogi Gate, where floral tributes were laid at the statue, accompanied by speeches, highlighting his role as a social reformer who championed education, women's rights, and welfare for the underprivileged.
"His motto, 'Justice is my Religion,' remains our guiding light,” said one attendee, echoing sentiments shared widely on social media.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha led the official tributes, posting on X. “Tributes to Maharaja Hari Singh Ji on his Janm-Jayanti. A statesman of excellence & harbinger of change, he introduced landmark reforms to ensure welfare of common man. His legacy of inclusive governance, progressive vision & contributions to motherland continues to inspire us.”
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh also joined commemorative events, attending gatherings alongside senior BJP leaders. Family members and political figures added personal touches to the day's observances.
Vikramaditya Singh, grandson of the Maharaja and former Member of the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Council, shared on X: "Respectful homage to my grandfather Maharaja Hari Singh of Jammu & Kashmir on 130th birth anniversary!"
PDP Youth President Aditya Gupta, however, used the occasion to critique the 2019 abrogation of Article 370, arguing it undermined the State Subject laws introduced by Hari Singh to protect local identities, calling the celebrations "hypocrisy" without restoring those safeguards.
Social media buzzed with heartfelt posts, from videos of rallies to reflective messages on the Maharaja's integration of Jammu and Kashmir with India via the 1947 Instrument of Accession.
One user captured the spirit: "Every caste, every Dogra, every corner of Jammu stood united... This is the power of Dogra legacy — unity above caste, faith & politics."
Born on September 23, 1895, to Maharaja Amar Singh, Hari Singh ruled from 1925 until the monarchy's end in 1952. His reign modernized the state through reforms like compulsory primary education and anti-untouchability laws, leaving an indelible mark on Dogra heritage—(KNO)