Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Aug 20: Centuries ago, Narayana Guru raised his voice for equality and fair treatment for all. Without any bloodshed, he dispelled the darkness of social hierarchies through his words and commitment, making him a great saint who fought for equality, said MP Kota Srinivas Poojary.

He was speaking at the Brahmashree Narayana Guru Jayanti program, organized by the Udupi district administration, Zilla Panchayat, Kannada and Culture Department, Udupi, and Billava Samaja Seva Sangha, at the Government Pre-University College in Malpe.

"History teaches us that society was once plagued by conflicts between the rich and the poor, deprived of social justice. Narayana Guru's life and struggle against caste systems, untouchability, bonded labor, and women's oppression serve as an ideal for all," he remarked.

MLA Yashpal Suvarna, presiding over the event, stated, "Narayana Guru propagated the idea of 'One Caste, One Religion, One God,' emphasizing that everyone should live in equality. His message of universal brotherhood and the idea that all human beings are equal is something the world needs to embrace. Guru's role in uplifting the backward classes is significant."

"Narayana Guru's principles and practices are a model for today's youth, and we should integrate his ideals into our daily lives. The celebration of Brahmashree Narayana Guru Jayanti should be meaningful. A proposal for the construction of a statue of Narayana Guru in the Legislative Assembly has already been submitted to the Chief Minister," Suvarna added.

Shreyas Kotian, a research student from Mangaluru University, delivered a lecture at the event. He highlighted that Narayana Guru initiated a religious revolution to unite the oppressed communities, later contributing to the educational and economic progress of the backward classes. "He envisioned temples as centers of education and industry, and used them as a means of social reform. He also led many movements to ensure that children from oppressed communities gained access to education in government schools," Shreyas said.

During the event, prizes were distributed to the winners of essay and speech competitions held in honor of Brahmashree Narayana Guru Jayanti.

Also in attendance were Edline Karkada, a member of the Malpe Central Ward City Council; Gururprasad, tahsildar; Dr Ellamma, block education officer; Gopal C Bangera, president of the Billava Samaja Seva Sangha; Dinesh A Suvarna, president of the Centenary Committee; Sandhya, principal of Malpe Government Pre-University College; along with the public, students, and other dignitaries.

The event commenced with a welcome address by Poornima, assistant director of the Kannada and Culture Department. The program was hosted by Thejas, and the vote of thanks was delivered by Varghese, principal of Malpe Government Pre-University College.