Today, the festival of Vishwakarma Day resonated throughout Jammu, as artisans and technical workers gathered in large numbers to honour Lord Vishwakarma, the divine architect, with traditional fervor. This celebration underscored not just religious devotion, but also the significance of craftsmanship and industry in modern India.
Following the tradition, many workers observed a cherished ‘no-work’ day, dedicating time to clean, maintain, and worship their tools and machines. This age-old practice reflects a deep belief that seeking blessings from Lord Vishwakarma enhances safety and prosperity within their professions, and brings fortune to industries. Vishwakarma Day occurs every year on the day after the auspicious festival of Diwali.
Festivities began at the Vishwakarma Sabha Temple Complex in Bakshi Nagar, Jammu, where community members participated in a Hawan and offered special prayers. Organised by the Vishwakarma Sabha, the celebration drew the attention of notable personalities, including Member of Parliament Jugal Kishore Sharma and MLA Jammu West Arvind Gupta. They joined the community in revering Lord Vishwakarma and promoting welfare among the Vishwakarma community.
During the event, dignitaries illuminated the legacy of Lord Vishwakarma, recognising him as the “divine engineer” and an embodiment of inspiration for craftsmen and workers. They praised the essential role of technical workers in India’s development and called for unification and support for the Vishwakarma community in their pursuits.
The successful organisation of the programme stemmed from the efforts of Kuljeet Rai, Chairman of the Vishwakarma Sabha, alongside various members including Vijay Kumar and Rattan Lal Changotra. Their collaborative efforts ensured a smooth celebration while highlighting the spirit of community.
In addition, events also unfolded at the Vishwakarma Temple in New Plots, Jammu. Here, devotees participated in a Hawan and Bhajan Kirtan conducted under the guidance of Mohinder Lal, the President of the Temple Committee.
On this auspicious occasion, Mohinder Lal voiced the long-standing demand for the government to announce Vishwakarma Day as a Gazetted Holiday. He pointed out that, traditionally, workers effectively observe an unofficial holiday on this day. He was supported by Ramesh Angotra, who emphasized the cultural and industrial importance of Vishwakarma Day, urging government authorities to officially recognise it as a public holiday.
The celebrations culminated in a Langer, a community feast meant to bring together all participants. This initiative demonstrated the spirit of unity, camaraderie, and respect for tradition within the Vishwakarma community. The team behind the Langer included individuals such as Rattan Lal, Joginder Angotra, and Vishal Angotra, all of whom worked tirelessly to ensure its success.
Overall, Vishwakarma Day in Jammu was not merely a ritualistic observance but a manifestation of dedication towards craftsmanship and the workforce, reminding all of the indispensable contribution of artisans and technical workers to society.
