The Ramtek Festival commenced on a solemn and emotional note as renowned poet and orator Kumar Vishwas paid heartfelt tribute to late Ajit Pawar, remembering his lifelong dedication to public service. Before beginning the Ram Katha, Kumar Vishwas expressed that “deaths that occur while serving society make one’s life work immortal.”

Offering floral tributes to the late Ajit Pawar, the festival was formally inaugurated with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Kumar Vishwas, State Minister Adv. Ashish Jaiswal, District Collector Dr. Vipin Itankar, Municipal President Bikendra Mahajan, and other dignitaries.

Speaking on the occasion, Kumar Vishwas remarked that “birth does not make a person great; what they leave behind does.” He noted that although the pain of loss remains, time does not stop, and individuals who dedicate their lives to public service achieve eternal remembrance. Drawing a parallel, he cited former President Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, who passed away while interacting with students, describing such deaths as a form of true liberation.

Expressing his emotional connection with Ramtek, Kumar Vishwas said that it was a land sanctified by Lord Ram’s footsteps and Sita Mata’s presence, and he felt privileged to narrate the Ram Katha here for three days.

The grand event at Nehru Ground witnessed an overwhelming response from devotees and citizens. The festival aims to showcase Ramtek’s rich cultural heritage through spiritual, cultural, and sporting activities.

Various sports competitions, including kabaddi, wrestling, badminton, marathon skating, cricket, and volleyball, have been organized as part of the festival.

Adding to the excitement, music lovers can look forward to live concerts by Sonu Nigam on February 1, followed by Sudesh Bhosle and Sadhana Sargam during the concluding ceremony on February 2.