ADDRESS BY THE HON’BLE PRESIDENT OF INDIA SMT. DROUPADI MURMU ON THE OCCASION OF INAUGURATION OF THE 1066TH JAYANTHI CELEBRATIONS OF ADI JAGADGURU SRI SHIVARATHREESHWARA SHIVAYOGI MAHASWAMIJI

I extend my heartfelt greetings to all of you gathered here to celebrate the Jayanthi of Adi Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeshwara Shivayogi Mahaswamiji. I feel deeply blessed to participate in this historic occasion that honours the great saint. His life, vision, and teachings continue to inspire and guide countless people after more than a thousand years.

Across the ages, saints have enlightened humanity through their wisdom and compassion. Their lives remind us that true greatness lies not in authority or wealth, but in sacrifice, service, and spiritual strength. Among such greatest saints, Adi Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeshwara Shivayogi Mahaswamiji shines as a beacon of light and inspiration.

In the tenth century, Jagadguru established the Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasansthana Math at Suttur. What began as a sacred spiritual centre soon became a powerful force for social transformation. The Math emerged as a centre of wisdom, nurturing generations with values of discipline, devotion, and compassion.

The unbroken Guru lineage of Suttur is the living soul of this great tradition. It has preserved and strengthened the spiritual values passed down through generations. Adi Jagadguru Mahaswamiji exemplified intense spiritual discipline and deep inner wisdom. Jagadguru Dr Sri Shivarathri Rajendra Mahaswamiji carried this legacy forward through visionary and compassionate public service. I have been told that his contributions to religion, education, healthcare, and culture are benefitting millions.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Karnataka is the sacred land of the great saint Basaveshwara, whose teachings continue to inspire humanity across generations. His profound message, “Kayakave Kailasa”—work is worship—is not merely an expression, but a way of life. I am happy to know that this philosophy finds its true reflection in the ideals and activities of the Suttur Math, where spiritual pursuit and social service go hand in hand.

I am pleased to note that, under the guidance and patronage of the Math, the JSS Mahavidyapeetha has emerged as one of India’s distinguished institutions, dedicated to the advancement of education and social development. With several institutions across the world, it is engaged in shaping young minds, delivering healthcare, empowering women, uplifting rural communities, preserving culture, and strengthening the foundations of an inclusive society. Suttur Math stands tall as one of the pillars of social development.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In an age of rapid change and uncertainty, spiritual guidance is essential for nurturing social harmony, ethical leadership, youth empowerment, and inner resilience. As we move towards the vision of Developed India by 2047, we need both—the power of technology and the strength of values. A developed India requires the integration of modern education with moral wisdom, innovation with environmental responsibility, economic growth with social inclusion, and progress with compassion. The Government of India is working with this holistic vision. Institutions like Suttur Math can play a substantial role in this national endeavour.

Our spiritual institutions remind us of the values that bind humanity together— the values of compassion, tolerance, mutual respect, and collective responsibility. These are not merely ideals of the past; they are essential foundations for a strong and harmonious modern world. The Government of India remains committed to building a future guided by inclusion, service, and human dignity.

Our greatest strength lies in our youth—their energy, creativity, values, and character. The destiny of India will be shaped not only by their skills and knowledge, but by their integrity and sense of purpose. I urge institutions like Suttur Math to continue inspiring young minds, nurturing responsible citizens, and guiding the architects of tomorrow’s India.

The celebration of the Jayanthi of Adi Jagadguru Sri Shivarathreeshwara Shivayogi Mahaswamiji is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to a life guided by dharma, compassion, service, and unity.

I pray that the divine grace of Shivayogi Mahaswamiji continues to inspire this Math to uplift this region, and to contribute in our national efforts for peace, prosperity, and spiritual strength.

Thank you,
Jai Hind!
Jai Bharat!