Spiritual foundation is key to community growth, says Vellappally Natesan

SIVAGIRI: Vellappally Natesan, the General Secretary of the S.N.D.P. Yogam, stated that the community must grow materially while staying rooted in the spiritual foundation of Sivagiri. He emphasised that the collaboration between the S.N.D.P. Yogam and the Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham Trust—both established by the Guru’s own hands—is a necessity of the modern era. He was speaking at the dedication ceremony of the Annakshetra (dining hall), built at Sivagiri as a memorial to the Mahayati Puja.

Vellappally Natesan said that it was Sree Narayana Guru’s vision that brought peace and harmony to the land. While Vellappally observed that politicians often speak eloquently about Guru’s greatness and philosophy, he pointed out that Kerala's political leadership fails to give Guru the importance he truly deserves. Vellappally further remarked that religious forces are currently hijacking democracy by functioning as organised vote banks, and he stressed that people must think about where those who spoke for religion and those who spoke for secularism stand today.

Addressing past controversies, Vellappally Natesan mentioned that the funds collected for the construction of the Annakshetra had been deposited in a bank account of Swami Shardananda. Vellappally said that when the project was delayed due to technical issues, he faced accusations of misappropriating the money. Vellappally Natesan expressed immense joy and satisfaction now that the construction is finally complete.

The event was presided over by Swami Vishudhananda, the former president of the Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham Trust. Swami Shardananda, the Treasurer of the Trust, delivered the blessing speech. Other speakers included former General Secretary Swami Sandrananda and Swami Asangananda Giri. The welcome address was delivered by the Trust’s General Secretary, Swami Shubbangananda, and the vote of thanks was offered by Yogam Councilor P. Sundaran.