Greetings to all the devotees and followers of the Partagali Jeevottam Math!
The 24th Mahant of Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math, Shrimad Vidyadheesh Teerth Swamiji, Hon’ble Governor Shri Ashok Gajapathi Raju ji, popular Chief Minister brother Pramod Sawant ji, Chairperson of the Math Committee Shri Srinivas Dempo ji, Vice President Shri R.R. Kamat ji, my colleagues in the Union Government Shri Shripad Naik ji and Digambar Kamat ji, and all other distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
This sacred occasion today has filled my mind with deep peace. Sitting in the presence of saints and sages is, in itself, a spiritual experience. The large number of devotees present here further strengthens the centuries-old vibrant energy of this Math. I consider myself fortunate to be present among you for this ceremony. Before coming here, I had the privilege of offering prayers at the Ram Temple and the Veer Vitthal Temple. The peace and atmosphere there have deepened the spiritual essence of this ceremony.
Friends,
Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math is celebrating the 550th anniversary of its establishment. This is a very historic moment. Over the past 550 years, this institution has withstood countless storms of time. Eras changed, times changed, many transformations took place in the nation and society, yet this Math never lost its direction even amid changing times and challenges. Instead, it emerged as a guiding centre for people and that is its greatest identity. Rooted in history, it has continued to walk with time. The very spirit with which this Math was founded remains equally alive today. This spirit connects penance with service, and tradition with public welfare. For generations, this Math has conveyed to society that the true purpose of spirituality is to provide stability, balance, and values to life. The 550-year journey of this Math is a testament to the strength that sustains society even in difficult times. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the head of the Math, Shrimad Vidyadheesh Teerth Swamiji, to all committee members, and to every person associated with this event, on this historic occasion.
Friends,
When an institution is built on truth and service, it does not falter in changing times; instead, it gives society the strength to endure. Today, carrying this same tradition forward, this Math is writing a new chapter. Here, a grand 77-feet bronze statue of Bhagwan Shri Ram has been installed. Just three days ago, I had the privilege of hoisting the Dharma Dhwaj atop the grand Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya. And today, I have been blessed with the opportunity to unveil this magnificent statue of Lord Shri Ram here. Today, a theme park based on the Ramayana has also been inaugurated.
Friends,
The new dimensions associated with this Math today are going to become permanent centres of knowledge, inspiration, and spiritual practice for future generations. Through the museum being developed here, and the 3D theatre equipped with modern technology, the Math is preserving its tradition and connecting the new generation with it. Similarly, the Shri Ram Naam Jap yagna conducted over 550 days with the participation of lakhs of devotees across the country, and the accompanying Ram Rath Yatra, have become symbols of the collective energy of devotion and discipline in our society. This very collective energy is today awakening a new consciousness in every corner of the country.
Friends,
The systems that connect spirituality with modern technology will continue to inspire future generations. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of you for this remarkable creation. In this grand celebration today, commemorative coins and postal stamps have also been released as symbols of this special occasion. These honours are dedicated to that spiritual strength which has kept society united for centuries.
Friends,
The continuous flow of Shree Math’s legacy comes from the great Guru tradition that established the divine foundation of Dvaita Vedanta. This Math, founded in 1475 by Shrimad Narayan Teerth Swamiji, is an extension of that very tradition of knowledge. And its original source is none other than the incomparable Jagadguru Shri Madhvacharya. I bow my head in reverence at the feet of these great Acharyas. It is also very significant that both Udupi and Partagali Maths are vibrant streams of the same spiritual river. The guiding Guru-force that has shaped the cultural current of Bharat’s western coast is the same. And it is a special coincidence for me that on this very day, I have had the privilege of being part of two programs connected with this sacred tradition.
Friends,
We are all proud that the families associated with this tradition have, generation after generation, made discipline, knowledge, hard work, and excellence the foundation of their lives. From trade to finance, from education to technology, the talent, leadership, and work-ethic visible in them reflects the deep influence of this very life-philosophy. There are countless inspiring stories of success belonging to individuals and families connected with this tradition. At the root of all their achievements lies humility, values, and a spirit of service. This Math has served as the cornerstone that preserves these values, and we are confident that it will continue to energize generations in the same way in the future as well.
Friends,
It is important today to mention another special aspect of this historic Math. One of its greatest identities is the spirit of service that has supported every section of society for centuries. Centuries ago, when this region faced adverse circumstances, when people had to leave their homes and seek refuge in new lands, it was this Math that became their support. It organized the community and helped establish temples, Maths, and shelters in new places. This Math protected not only religion, but also humanity and culture. Over time, its stream of service expanded further. Today, from education to hostels, from elderly care to supporting needy families, the Math has always dedicated its resources to public welfare. Whether it is hostels built across various states, modern schools, or relief efforts during difficult times, every initiative stands as a testament to the fact that when spirituality and service walk together, society gains both stability and the inspiration to progress.
Friends,
There were also times when Goan temples and local traditions faced great challenges, when pressure arose on language and cultural identity. But these circumstances could not weaken the soul of the society. Instead, they strengthened it even more. This is the unique strength of Goa that its culture has preserved its core identity through every change, and has rejuvenated itself with time. Institutions like the Partagali Math have played a significant role in this revival.
Friends,
Today, Bharat is witnessing an extraordinary cultural renaissance. The reconstruction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the grand redevelopment of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham, and the expansion of Mahakal Mahalok in Ujjain reflect our nation’s awakening as it revitalizes its spiritual heritage with new strength. Examples such as the Ramayana Circuit, the Krishna Circuit, the development works in Gaya ji, and the unprecedented management of the Kumbh Mela show that today’s Bharat is advancing its cultural identity with renewed resolve and self-confidence. This awakening inspires future generations to stay connected with their roots.
Friends,
The sacred land of Goa has its own unique spiritual identity. For centuries, the continuous flow of devotion, saint traditions, and cultural discipline has enriched this region. Along with its natural beauty, this land also carries the identity of being the ‘Dakshin Kashi’. The Partagali Math has deepened this identity even further. The influence of this Math is not limited to Konkan or Goa; its tradition is connected to various parts of the country, including the sacred land of Kashi. As a Member of Parliament from Kashi, this brings me even more pride. During his travels in North Bharat, the founder Acharya Shri Narayan Teerth had also established a centre in Kashi, which extended the spiritual flow of this Math from the South to the North. Even today, the centre established by him in Kashi serves as a medium of social service.
Friends,
Today, as this sacred Math completes 550 years, we are not only celebrating history but also shaping the direction of the future. The path to a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) goes through unity. When society comes together and when every region and every section stands together, only then does a nation take great leaps forward. The primary objective of Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math is to unite people, unite minds, and build a bridge between tradition and modernity. That is why, this Math is also playing the role of a major centre of inspiration in the journey toward a ‘Viksit Bharat’.
Friends,
When I have affection for somebody, I respectfully make some requests. Pujya Swamiji has given me the task of observing Ekadashi. He is a saint and generally saints agree with one request, but I am not someone who agrees with just one and that is why, now that I am here among you, certain thoughts naturally arise in my mind that I wish to share with you. I want to place 9 requests before you that can be carried to the masses through your institution. These 9 requests are like 9 resolutions. The dream of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ will be fulfilled only when we consider protecting the environment as our sacred duty. The Earth is our mother, and the teachings of our Maths instruct us to respect nature. Therefore, our first resolution should be to conserve water, to save water, and to save our rivers. Our second resolution should be to plant trees. The nationwide campaign of “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (One tree in the name of the mother) is gaining momentum. If your institution adds its strength to this campaign, its impact will become even more far-reaching. Our third resolution should be a mission for cleanliness. Today, when I visited the temple premises, the arrangement, the architecture, and the cleanliness greatly impressed me. I also told Swamiji how wonderfully everything has been maintained. Every street, neighbourhood, and city should be clean. As our fourth resolution, we must adopt Swadeshi (local products). Today Bharat is moving forward with the mantra of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Swadeshi. Today, the country is saying “Vocal for Local, Vocal for Local, Vocal for Local, Vocal for Local”and we must move forward with the same resolve.
Friends,
Our fifth resolution should be Desh Darshan. We should try to explore and understand different parts of our country. As part of our sixth resolution, we must make natural farming a part of our lives. Our seventh resolution should be to adopt a healthy lifestyle. We should embrace Shree Anna millets and reduce the amount of oil in our food by 10 percent. As our eighth resolution, we must adopt yoga and sports. And as our ninth resolution, we must help the poor in some way or another. Even if each of us adopts just one family, you will see Bharat’s future will transform before our very eyes.
Friends,
Our Maths can turn these resolutions into people’s resolutions. The 550-year experience of this Math teaches us that when tradition stays alive, society progresses. And tradition stays alive only when it expands its responsibilities with time. What this Math has contributed to society over 550 years, now that same energy must be dedicated to building the Bharat of the future.
Friends,
The spiritual glory of this land of Goa is as unique as its modern development is impressive. Goa is among the states with the highest per capita income. It has a significant contribution to the country’s tourism, pharmaceutical, and service sectors. In recent years, Goa has achieved new milestones in education and health. The central and state governments together are modernizing the infrastructure here. With the expansion of highways, airports, and rail connectivity, travel has become even more convenient for both devotees and tourists. Tourism is an important pillar of our national vision for a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 and Goa is its greatest example.
Friends,
Bharat today is passing through a decisive era. The energy of our youth, our growing self-confidence, and our inclination toward cultural roots together are creating a new Bharat. Our resolve to build a ‘Viksit Bharat’ will be fulfilled only when spirituality, national service, and development progress together. This land of Goa, and this Math, are making a significant contribution in that direction. Today, Pujya Swamiji said many things about me. He gave me credit for many achievements. I am deeply grateful to him for the feelings he expressed. But the truth is whatever you consider good, it is not because of Modi. It is the result of the resolve and hard work of 140 crore Indians. That is why we are witnessing positive outcomes, and many more will come because I have complete faith in the 140 crore people of our country. And as you mentioned, there have been many stages in my life where Goa has played a very important role. How it happened, I cannot say, but it is true that at every turning point, it is this land of Goa that has guided me forward. I am deeply grateful to the revered Saint for his blessings. Once again, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all of you on this sacred occasion. Thank you very much.
