Anandotsava 2026 highlights Yamuna pollution through the YaRI initiative as Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel urges students to fight substance abuse and protect nature
NEW DELHI: Raising awareness about Yamuna pollution and substance abuse, the 40th edition of Anandotsava ’26 has brought together students from 79 schools across Delhi. Organised by Arya Samaj Vasant Vihar, the festival is engaging around 2,500 students in activities that promote environmental protection, spiritual values and social responsibility.
Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel, former Supreme Court judge and former chairperson of the National Green Tribunal, attended the event as chief guest. Justice Pritam Pal, Vice-President of Arya Samaj Vasant Vihar; Santosh Kapoor, President of the organisation; and Yogi Suri, National President of Arya Yuva Samaj and Managing Editor of Milap Publications, also participated in the programme.
YaRI Initiative Puts the Spotlight on Yamuna Pollution
The second day of Anandotsava ’26 focused on YaRI (Yamuna Action River Initiative), an effort to make students more aware of pollution affecting the Yamuna and the need for collective environmental action.
Vibha Khosla, Principal of Modern School, Vasant Vihar, presented the initiative and emphasised the importance of educating young people about environmental challenges. Students of Mahatma Anand Swami Primary School also delivered a special presentation.
A street play titled YaRI – Our Responsibility highlighted Yamuna pollution and encouraged students to recognise their role in protecting the river. The activities connected environmental awareness with the broader message of individual and collective responsibility.
Justice Adarsh Kumar Goel Encourages Youth-Led Change
Addressing the students, Justice Goel emphasised the importance of sustaining youth-led initiatives that tackle substance abuse and improve environmental awareness. He also spoke about the legacy of Mahatma Anand Swami Saraswati and urged young people to recognise their potential to contribute to society.
Discussing addiction, he observed that a lack of awareness can leave young people vulnerable to substance abuse. He stressed that their energy and abilities should be channelled towards constructive goals and meaningful social contributions.
No Nasha Nation Promotes a Drug-Free India
The festival began on October 14 with No Nasha Nation, a youth awareness campaign led by Yogi Suri to combat substance abuse and encourage a drug-free India.
Yogi Suri also spoke about Mahatma Anand Swamiji’s life and teachings, highlighting his love for the Vedas and respect for nature. He encouraged students to adopt these values in their daily lives and spread awareness about protecting the environment.
Justice Pritam Pal Emphasises Humanity
Justice Pritam Pal reinforced the importance of human values by recalling Justice Goel’s message: “Whether you become something or not, you must become a good human being.”
Recalling their professional association as judges of the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Justice Pritam Pal said Justice Goel consistently emphasised humanity above professional standing. He added that individuals who lead with compassion and good character can improve their own lives while contributing to the well-being of others.
Anandotsava ’26 to Conclude on October 16
The programme featured DAV Gaan, a presentation on Mahatma Anand Swamiji’s life and a choir performance of Keep Smiling as a musical tribute to him. The event also included the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, a balloon release, a folk dance and interschool competitions.
Anandotsava ’26 will conclude on October 16 with a valedictory programme featuring Padma Shri Dr. Punam Suri, President of the DAV College Managing Committee and the 21st President of the Arya Pratinidhi Sabha. Student performances, a felicitation ceremony and prize distribution will mark the final day of the festival.
