Sree Narayana Guru was one of India’s great spiritual leaders and social reformers: President

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: President Droupadi Murmu said that Sree Narayana Guru’s vision of “One caste, one religion, one God for mankind” is timeless and that Guru is a great personality India has given to the world. She was speaking at the inauguration of the two-year-long centenary celebrations of the Guru’s Mahasamadhi at Sivagiri.

The President said the teachings of the Guru, which encouraged generations to believe in humanity, are a solution to the conflicts faced by the world. Sree Narayana Guru, a prominent leader of social reform in the 19th century, taught that liberation from suffering comes through knowledge and compassion, not superstition.

"Guru greatly influenced the social and spiritual atmosphere of the country. He emphasised self-purification, simplicity, and universal love, and the many temples, schools, and social institutions he established continue to contribute to social progress. He encouraged marginalised communities to gain literacy, self-reliance, and moral values. His writings reflect profound knowledge about human life and spirituality. Guru’s vision can be realised when we serve everyone selflessly and see divinity in all," the President said.

The event at the Sivagiri Theerthadana Hall was attended by hundreds of devotees. The Dharma Sangham Trust Treasurer Swami Sharadananda paid tribute to the Guru, while General Secretary Swami Subhangananda delivered the welcome address. Swami Sachidananda, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, and others spoke at the function. Ministers V.N. Vasavan, V. Sivankutty, Adoor Prakash MP, V. Joy MLA, and former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar were also present.

Guru Pooja prasadam
President Murmu accepted the Guru Pooja prasadam offered by the monks of Sivagiri with affection, which served as her lunch. Earlier, she had offered flowers at the Mahasamadhi and prayed before moving to the inauguration stage. On arrival at Sivagiri, she reached by road after landing at the Varkala helipad at 12 noon. She was received by Swami Sachidananda, the Governor, and other ministers.