President Draupadi Murmu paid rich tribute to Dr. Sree Sivakumara Mahaswamiji on his 119th birthday and at the Guruvandana ceremony at the Sree Siddaganga Mutt near Tumakuru in Karnataka today. She noted that the former pontiff of Siddaganga Mutt, who passed away at the grand old age of 111 in 2019, was a saint who followed the teachings of Lord Basaveshwara by serving humanity.
The President said that the spiritual leader opened the Math for the poor, providing them free education and food, and helping them to develop a wholesome personality. She said that education and personality development are essential for ensuring a better future for our country.
Furthermore, the President noted that education instills self-reliance in individuals who can make meaningful contributions to the country. Referring to the country's celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Vande Mataram song, the President mentioned Kuvempu, a Kannada poet who won the Jnanpith award, who had described Karnataka as a daughter of Bharat in his poem.
During this occasion, Karnataka Governor Thawaarchand Gehlot, Union Ministers Prahlad Joshi and V Somanna, and state ministers Dr. G Parameshwar, M B Patil, and Laxshmi Hebbalkar were also present.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah paid tribute to Dr. Sivakumara Swamigalu on his birth anniversary. In a social media post, Mr. Modi said that Dr. Sivakumara Swamigalu stands as an embodiment of compassion, humility, and unwavering service to humanity.
The Prime Minister added that through a lifetime dedicated to uplifting others, Dr. Sivakumara Swamigalu demonstrated that true greatness lies in serving others. Mr. Modi highlighted that Dr. Sivakumara Swamigalu's remarkable contributions in education, social welfare, and spirituality have left a lasting impact on society.
Meanwhile, Home Minister Amit Shah called Dr. Sivakumara Swamigalu a revered saint who dedicated his life to compassion and education. Mr. Shah added that the legacy of Siddaganga Mutt inspires selfless service to the nation.
