Guru inspired generations to believe in ideals of equality, unity and love for humanity, says President Murmu

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the observance of the Mahasamadhi centenary of Sree Narayana Guru at Sivagiri Mutt, in Varkala today. Speaking on the occasion, the President said Guru was one of India’s great spiritual leaders and social reformers. She said that he was a saint and philosopher who influenced the social and spiritual landscape of our country. He inspired generations to believe in the ideals of equality, unity and love for humanity.

The President said Guru, one of the leading figures of the pan-Indian re-awakening witnessed during 19th century, devoted his life to liberating people from the darkness of ignorance and superstition. He believed in the oneness of all existence. She added that he saw God as the divine presence within every living being and he gave the powerful message of ‘One Caste, One Religion, One God for Mankind’. The President highlighted that his teachings went beyond the boundaries of religion, caste and creed. He believed that real liberation comes from knowledge and compassion, not from blind faith. Guru always emphasized self-purification, simplicity, and universal love.

The President said that the temples, schools and social institutions, that he established, served as centers of literacy, self-reliance, and moral values among the oppressed communities. His verses in Malayalam, Sanskrit, and Tamil blended deep philosophical insight with simplicity. His works reflect his profound understanding of human life and spirituality.

The President emphasized that in today’s world, Sree Narayana Guru’s message becomes even more relevant. She said that his call for oneness, equality, and mutual respect offers a timeless solution to the conflicts faced by humanity, all the time. Sree Narayana Guru’s message of unity reminds us that all human beings share the same divine essence.

The president arrived in Sivagiri to inaugurate the global programmes that will last till 2028. She reached Sivagiri Thursday morning at 10 am. She landed at Papanasam Helipad Ground and reached Sivagiri by road. She had darshan at the Mahasamadhi.

The President then inaugurated the Sree Narayana Guru Mahaparinirvana Centenary Conference at the Pilgrimage Auditorium. Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Sree Narayana Dharmasangham Trust President Swami Sachidananda, General Secretary Swami Shubhangananda, Treasurer Swami Saradananda, Minister V N Vasavan, Minister V Sivankutty, former Union Minister of State Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Adoor Prakash MP, V Joy MLA and others will attend. The President was at the Sivagiri Mutt till 2.40 on. The President returned at 2.50 pm after having lunch with sanyasis of the mutt.