In a significant statement that blended spirituality with governance, Pawan Kalyan, the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, emphasised the shared purpose of religion and the Constitution the establishment of a peaceful and harmonious society. Speaking at the grand conclusion of the month-long Geethotsav organised by the Paryaya Puttige Math, Kalyan described the Bhagavad Gita as the “highest manifesto of humanity,” and highlighted its scientific and philosophical importance. The event culminated with Pawan Kalyan being conferred with the prestigious title of Abhinava Krishnadevaraya by Paryaya Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji.
In his speech, Kalyan, a renowned actor and influential political figure, made a profound connection among religion, culture, and the Constitution. He began his address in Kannada, acknowledging his limited fluency in the language, and humorously continued in English, referencing Thomas Macaulay’s prediction that the English language would destroy India’s Sanatan Dharma. “However, we see that this prediction has not come true. Sanatan Dharma, with its roots in the Vedas and the Bhagavad Gita, remains indomitable. It is a power that cannot be destroyed,” he stated firmly, invoking the enduring strength of India’s ancient spiritual heritage.
Kalyan also expressed his admiration for Udupi’s spiritual richness, calling it a “powerhouse of spirituality.” Drawing attention to the region’s cultural and religious significance, he spoke about the inspiring efforts of Puttige Math to spread the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. “Puttige Sri is writing the Gita for one crore people, and I too have accepted the resolution to write the Bhagavad Gita. It is the highest manifesto of humanity, and I urge young people to keep it close to their hearts,” Kalyan said, underlining the timeless relevance of the Gita in modern life.
A deep believer in the transformative power of the Gita, Kalyan emphasised that the Gita’s verses resonate throughout the Constitution, reinforcing the idea that the ancient text is not mere superstition but a profound science of life. “God Krishna is the inspiration of my life. I may not know every verse of the Bhagavad Gita, but I know its power. It teaches that victory and defeat are transient, and that we must rise above them,” he said, referring to how the teachings of the Gita helped him maintain composure in both his personal and political life.
Pawan Kalyan also lauded the timely gift of the Bhagavad Gita by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling it a “gift that teaches lessons in today’s wartime” and noting that the Gita’s teachings are more relevant now than ever before in the context of global conflict.
In addition to his speech, Pawan Kalyan was joined by spiritual leaders, including Puttige Math’s junior Sri Sushrendra Theertha Swamiji, Kukke Subrahmanya Math’s Sri Vidyaprasanna Theertha, and ISKCON’s Sri Subhag Swami Guru Maharaj, all of whom participated in the event. Business leaders from Hyderabad, Raghavendra Hebbar and Murali Ballal, were also honoured by Puttige Sri for their contributions.
Srimat scholar Dr Gopalacharya welcomed the event, while Dr Vijayendra delivered the vote of thanks. The program was organised by the Math International Secretary, Prasanna Acharya.
One of the key highlights of the Geethotsav was Puttige Sri’s suggestion to include the Bhagavad Gita in the academic curriculum of Andhra Pradesh. Addressing Kalyan, he urged him to take the initiative to ensure that the Bhagavad Gita is included in the educational texts in Andhra Pradesh, as are lessons on great philosophers such as Acharya Shankara, Ramanujacharya, and Basavanna. He also suggested forming a committee to research the inclusion of Acharya Madhvacharya’s teachings in the state’s curriculum, noting the historical significance of spiritual texts and hymns such as those written by Thyagaraja.
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