Shri Vidyadheesha Tirtha, the junior Swamiji of Palimar Mutt, recently visited Bhagyanagar as part of his tour. In an exclusive interview with Surender Kunti, Bureau Chief (South), Swamiji shared his insights on a range of topics, including youth, women, societal transformation, protecting Dharma, combating anti-Bharat forces, seva activities, and various aspects of Bharatiya Dharmic life and society. Excerpts:
How can we preserve and promote Dharma in today’s rapidly changing world?
“Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah!” We must protect our Dharma, for it, in turn, protects us. It is crucial to understand this profound philosophy. Our temples are not just places of worship but centers of Dharma (Dharmic Kendras) where we inherit our culture and traditions that have been preserved and passed down through generations. Currently, temple funds are collected and utilised by the government. Instead, the funds collected from ‘A-class’ temples should be distributed to support ‘C-class’ temples, aiding their development. This is one effective way to safeguard our Dharma while supporting smaller, needy temples. Such arrangements should be implemented across towns, villages, and regions.
What is the role of dharma in nation-building? And how can individuals contribute to this process?
Along with promoting Dharma, fostering Desh Bhakti (nationalism) is equally important. If the country remains strong and secure, our Dharma will thrive. We must attract and bring people to temples, to teach our Dharma. In Bharat still people have reverence towards dharma, which is not seen in the world, where Churches are either being closed, converted to buildings or temples, but in Bharat, temples remain as Shraddha Kendras. In our earlier days, dharma used to be taught at schools, but today it is not there, moreover, they are teaching hatred towards it. Considering these, we have only temples; we must ensure that these temples continue to teach dharma. We should also promote our Hindu Dharma through various temples by arranging daily and periodic sessions on the Bhagavad Gita, Ramayana, and other Puranic scriptures. This effort should not be limited to a single temple but adopted in every temple to reach as many people as possible. Not only this, we must institutionalise in funding and teaching dharma at our temples, as funds are not issue. This is the only way to promote dharma, and the alternate is to implement through Raja Agnya” (Order of the King), which is a bit typical in today’s majority context.
For example, due to the Church’s inculturation in Bharat — something not seen in other parts of the world — such as installing our dharmic symbols like Dhwaj Stambhas, performing Jyoti Prajwalana during events, and celebrating festivals in ways similar to Hindus, church architecture resembling temples has become more attractive. In Udupi, there is a church close to the Krishna Temple, and due to these measures, hundreds of practicing Hindus visit the church regularly because it conducts events to draw people in. Similarly, mosques attract Muslims through regular Namaz and preaching.
What message do you have to convey to today’s youth about Dharma?
The youth will inevitably be drawn toward Dharma; it is only a matter of time. Whenever challenges arise — whether in education, employment, or family matters — they instinctively turn to us for guidance and support. Youth should be dealt with utmost care. We at Palimaru Math are trying to invite and include youth in our programmes, however the response is lukewarm. It’s going to be a long journey for any youth to practice and follow Dharma. However, we must continue engaging them as special invitees, listening to their concerns, and following up with questions and answers. This cannot be achieved on a large scale or en masse. While our Math has attempted it without success, the progress, though gradual and slow, is moving in the right direction.
How to view the divisionary methods like North Vs South?
We must recognise that we are one, yet certain elements have created binaries like North and South to promote divisive narratives. It is essential for us to come together to neutralise these tactics. Unfortunately, key aspects of our shared heritage — such as language, water resources, and culture — are being manipulated to fuel divisions. Language, which is primarily a tool for communication and exchange of ideas, has been turned into an instrument of discord. For instance, rivers, which naturally flow across states and symbolise unity, are often used to create friction. Similarly, states like Tamil Nadu have increasingly resisted Hindi, largely due to the influence of certain political forces. This resistance, while framed as cultural preservation, sets a dangerous precedent by refusing to embrace linguistic diversity. Tamil Nadu, a land of ancient temples and rich heritage, often insists on its culture being distinct, refusing to integrate with others. Political forces even use shared resources like rivers to pit states against one another, furthering conflict. While states like Andhra Pradesh are gradually improving in fostering inclusivity, Tamil Nadu remains resistant to other languages, particularly Hindi, hindering the spirit of national unity. These gaps must be bridged.
How do we deal with anti-national elements and globally self-claimed super powers who are against Bharat?
We Hindus must unite to combat global and anti-national forces — there is no viable alternative. It is crucial to raise awareness that goes beyond politics, bringing all sadhus together on a single platform. To effectively counter and defeat forces that threaten Bharat, we must wield both Shakti (Power) and Dharma. Take the example of Bhagwan Rama: known for his Shakti, he defeated the demoness Tataki with the guidance of Guru Vishwamitra, a beacon of Dharma. The fusion of these two forces — Shakti and Dharma — was essential in overcoming the evil. Therefore, we must possess mantra, tantra, and Shakti working in unison to control and neutralise these destructive forces. Only by combining strength and virtue can we secure the future of our nation.
Can you share major initiatives taken by Palimaru Matha for the upliftment of society?
Palimaru Matha has been operating for over 800 years and has made significant contributions across various dimensions. We have multiple Dharma Sansthas (centres) in various sacred places (Tirth Sthans). Through these centres as well in our regular travels across the country, we teach shastra, dharma, and deshbhakti (Patriotism). We support individuals and institutions working for well-being of society. In our everyday mantra, we honour the names of rishis, rivers, hills, and many more, all unified under the concept of Ekatmata (oneness) while sharing teachings of Bhagwad Gita, we pray for the well-being of our nation and people. We extended our support in decorating the Udipi Krishna Matha gopuram with gold. For the last several years, we have been providing free Annadaan (food donation) at the Matha, where around 3,000 students receive their meals daily. Under the leadership of the previous Mathaadhipati, we established Vidyapeeth, where we follow our own syllabus covering subjects such as the Vedas, Puranas, Pourohityam, science, and more, setting aside the government-prescribed books. All of this education is provided free of charge.
How do you see the role of women in coming future?
Women are an integral part of our Dharmic system. Moreover, they play a major role in the well-being of society and the nation. Dharma can only be secured with their involvement. What they teach children during their upbringing is crucial, making them transformational leaders for their families and society at large. They can be major influencers in safeguarding our culture and Dharma. Keeping this in mind, we have started a dedicated school for girls to help secure our Dharma.
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