Bhubaneswar:: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi described Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupada as a “living embodiment of devotion, service, and humanity” during a grand celebration marking the 151st Avirbhav Jayanti (appearance anniversary) of Srila Prabhupada and the centenary of Shri Sachidananda Math in Cuttack. The event took place at Jawaharlal Indoor Stadium, Cuttack, on the evening of August 13.
Highlighting the invaluable role of Shri Sachidananda Math over the past century, the Chief Minister stated that the institution has been a beacon of moral, spiritual, literary, and social values. “For the last 100 years, Shri Sachidananda Math has been spreading the light of knowledge and guiding society toward moral consciousness through its spiritual, literary, and social activities,” Majhi remarked.
Praising Srila Prabhupada’s life and teachings, the CM noted, “Param Pujya Srila Bhakti Siddhanta Saraswati Goswami Prabhupada was not just a great saint, teacher, or preacher. His life philosophy, the eternal messages of the Gita and Bhagavata, and his principle of dedicating one’s life to the service of the Lord continue to inspire generations.”
Majhi emphasised that in today’s materialistic world, awakening spiritual consciousness is a priceless treasure for society. He commended the Math’s contributions not only in spreading religious awareness but also in education, charity, saintly association, social service, and moral guidance for youth.
Speaking on the relevance of Srila Prabhupada’s contributions, the Chief Minister said, “His teachings are as relevant today as they were in his time. If embraced in spirit, they can foster a sense of universal brotherhood, bringing true happiness, prosperity, and peace to society.” He stressed that the 151st Avirbhav Jayanti is not merely a day of remembrance but also a commitment to remain steadfast on the path of ideals, service, and devotion exemplified by Srila Prabhupada.
Defining the true purpose of devotion, Majhi stated, “The real meaning of devotion is to purify the human heart. Srila Prabhupada has guided us on this path. If we can integrate his teachings into our lives, our existence will be truly meaningful. His guidance and words will remain an eternal source of nectar for us all.”
Gaudiya Mission President Srimad Bhakti Sundar Sanyasi Goswami Maharaj remarked in his address that Srila Prabhupada is akin to a scripture of knowledge that one can study for a lifetime without reaching its end.
The program was attended by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, and several other dignitaries. On the dais were Srimad Bhakti Vichar Bharti Maharaj, Gaudiya Mission committee member Umesh Khandelwal, and other prominent personalities.
The event began with a welcome address by Bhakti Bodhayan Vedanta Maharaj of the Gaudiya Vaishnav Conference, followed by a vote of thanks delivered by Bhakti Rupaka Radhanti Maharaj.
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