Tumakuru (Karnataka), April 1 (IANS) President of India, Droupadi Murmu, graced the 119th birthday celebrations and Guruvandana mahotsava of Dr Sree Sree Sivakumara Mahaswamiji at Sree Siddaganga Math, Tumakuru, Karnataka on Wednesday.

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that saints like Shivakumara Swamiji embody the very soul of our society and nation. Although his physical form merged with the Supreme Essence in 2019, the stream of his spirituality will forever continue to nourish and sustain both society and the country.

He enriched humanity through his spiritual activities. Dedicated to the service of the poor and the underprivileged, his life stands as a remarkable example of expressing spirituality through welfare activities, she stated.

The President appreciated Sree Siddaganga Math for carrying forward the legacy of Swamiji’s noble deeds. She was happy to note that Math has facilitated education ranging from the primary school level to higher studies in engineering and management. She also noted that Sree Siddha-Ganga Hospital, established under the guidance of Sree Shivakumara Swamiji, provides excellent healthcare services to the general public.

The President underlined that Sree Siddaganga Math is upholding and advancing a centuries-old tradition of service and spirituality in the contemporary era.

She said that in our tradition, the gift of knowledge is accorded immense significance. Knowledge and education serve as the very foundation for personality development and character building. It is education that paves the way toward self-reliance. By imparting education to underprivileged students from marginalized sections of society and rural areas, the Math is making an invaluable contribution toward the creation of an inclusive society.

The President said that diligence, public service, and national service are linked together. Spirituality provides a robust foundation for both public service and national service. Karnataka stands as a prime example, showcasing the most impressive instances of public service, national service, spirituality, and modern progress. For this, the diligent and talented residents of Karnataka deserve commendation. The people of Karnataka have consistently made leading contributions to nation-building. She expressed confidence that Karnataka will continue to advance as a leading hub for nation-building.

The President said that it is only by treading the path of nation-building, philanthropy, and unwavering devotion to duty that we can truly offer our homage to Sree Shivakumara Swamiji.

–IANS

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