Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Jan 21: Sri Lakshmivarateertha Swamiji of Shirur Mutt, whose Paryaya period of two years ended on January 18 morning, fervently wishes that the heads of eight Mutts here will sink their differences and show unity. “How can one hope to unite the minds of crores of Hindus, when we are unable to make eight minds to come together in the larger interests of the society?” he questions.

The swamiji said a pain about being unable to strike unity among the eight Swamijis has been hurting him. At the same time, he continues to nurture the hope that the Swamijis will put up a combined face some day. He said he is aware that the devotees also have been utterly disappointed about the discord between the Mutts.

“All the eight Swamijis should show liberal mindsets and decide to unite in the interests of the devotees and Hindu society. Differences between the Mutts have been existent since the last four decades. Discord surfaced when Sri Vidyamanyateertha Swamiji of Bhandarkeri Mutt became one of the eight Swamijis here by becoming the head of Palimar Mutt, against which Swamijis of some Mutts approached courts. After this issue cropped up, only some of the Swamijis have been participating in the Paryaya procession and Darbar thereafter. I hope that there is a possibility of bringing all the Swamijis together, if some of them drop the unreasonably stubborn stand that crossing of the sea robs Swamijis of the right to perform puja to Lord Krishna. We organize Samajotsavas with the purpose of bringing people together. Ironically, we do not have unity, which is strange,” he commented.

He opined that change of Paryaya term from two to five years can be brought about, if all the eight Mutt heads agree for the proposal.