Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)
Udupi, Feb 22: Sri Vishweshateertha Swamiji of Pejawar Math who ascended the Paryaya Peetha for the fifth time last month, on Monday February 22 elaborated his plans during the next two years of his term.
Addressing a press meet here, Pejawar Swamiji said, "Students are facing problems due to lack of facilities in hostels (run by the Math). A new hostel with 40 rooms will come up on 27 centre of land at Pajaka school. The work will start in June this year and will be completed in a year. There is already a hostel, but we will have one more."
He also said that a course for teachers on Vedas and other Hindu religious scriptures will be started in April. "We will start a 'Veda Shastra Abhiyana' for teachers. It is two-year programme from April and there will be video conferencing facility also so that people in other countries can also take part. During this programme, education on Vedas and other religious scriptures will be provided," he said.
He also informed that a 26-year-old professor from Devadiga community has come forward to take Sanyasa Deeksha. He did not name him, but said he was from Karkala. "He is presently in politics. He will be given Deeksha after a month. It is his decision to quit politics or not.
"There are two types of Deekshas - Mantra Deeksha and Nama Deeksha. Those who take Mantra Deeksha should stay away from alcohol and non-vegetarian food. Mantra Deeksha will make Hindu society stronger. Those who are opposing it are anti-Hindu," he said.
"Cow meat is prohibited for Hindus because the cow is sacred and giving. Devotion in individuals builds good character, peace of mind and faith," he said, in reply to a question on ban on beef.
To a question on Babri Masjid demolition, he said, "People of other language provoked the demolition, and I was portrayed in a bad light. I have never done any injustice to Muslims or incited violence against them. From Kasargod to Bhatkal, I have attended various Muslim programmes and I was honoured there. Dividing the nation is unacceptable to any religion. I know how to answer my critics."
On funds received from Adani group, he said, "We received Rs 50 lac from Adani group. I had discussed the problem regarding flyash from UPCL and the affect on agriculture with Adani and stressed that UPCL should not affect agriculture. I never used the money for myself but used it for social causes. There is no connection between ideology and money. Even Mahatma Gandhi who propogated non-violence accepted money from Kanchandas and Birla. When the government can give money to private institutions, why can't I accept money from private individuals?"
On whether he would support agitations against UPCL if it affects agriculture and environment, he said, "Without the support of locals, nothing can be achieved. In every business there is an element of suppression. There is no compromise or change in my ideology. Whenever people face problems I will join their movement."
To a question on ban on entry of women in Sabarimala, he said, "Version of both parties must be heard. It is very old tradition and you cannot have an instant solution."