Harshini Brahmavar
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)
Udupi, Jan 18: Sri Vidyadheesha Theertha Swamiji, spiritual head of Palimaru Math, who presided over the two-year Paryaya term between 2018 and 2020, has handed over the reigns of Sri Krishna Math administration and puja to Admar Math Swamiji. On this occasion, Daijiworld caught up with him for an interview.
During the two years he headed the Paryaya, Sri Vidyadheesha had spelt out his goals before ascending the Paryaya throne.
He spoke on where he stands as far as achieving his objectives are concerned.
Q: On the three decisions, offering one lac Tulsi twigs to Lord Krishna every day, uninterrupted Bhajan programme, and golden roof to Sri Krishna Math.
A: I am happy that the decision to offer one lac Tulsi twigs to the Lord every day was implemented perfectly and over 50 scholars chanted Sahasranama during this period. "Devotees from as far as Kerala, Kumta, Koteshwar and Honnavar, had offered Tulsi to the Lord, which is good for health. The twigs, after they were offered to the Lord, were not wasted, but used for making medicines. Even though initially there was some problem in implementing uninterrupted Bhajan chanting programme, later the devotees wholeheartedly supported the project and even at night we had rush of volunteers. People from other states and religions also participated. I wish that offering of Tulsi and Bhajans are carried out by each household every day.
Q: You have officiated two Paryaya terms. Any sense of discontentment?
A: There were lots of requests seeking facilities for school children, monetary assistance for sick people etc. But to some extent, a sense of dissatisfaction about not being able to meet all the demands to the expected level lingers. I will work to address this issue in future. Even the golden roof project was implemented with the support of devotees.
Q: Your opinion about the Junior Swamiji of Admar Math ascending the Paryaya throne?
A: He is educated, and an engineer. He has his own views. He has already taken several decisions with a concern for environment. He is in favour of organic farming, and has dedication and devotion towards the Lord. He has a leaning towards serving the people. I am confident that with the Lord's grace, he will manage Paryaya term in an efficient way.
Q: How was your experience in getting Baba Ramdev to hold five-day Yoga camp here?
A: I am happy about it. Baba Ramdev got happy by doing Yoga with the people. People have understood the importance of doing Yoga and following good food habits. It has revolutionized the way people looked at life. Now Yoga camp is going on at Sri Krishna Math too. After I came to know about the harms of using sugar and Maida, I have banned their use.
Q: About 'Chinnara Masotava' programme initiated during your Paryaya.
A: Yes. This is a forum in which children are allowed to exhibit their talents. Lord Krishna was happy to watch the children performing dances, Yakshagana performances, folklore, music etc.
Q: On verdict on Ram Mandir at Ayodhya during your term.
A: A campaign to collect signatures in favour of Ram Mandir had been undertaken in the Math. The Lord heard our pleas and I am happy that favourable verdict came out during my Paryaya period.
Q: On Pejawar Swamiji leaving for heavenly abode.
A: Sri Vishwesha Theertha was loved and liked by everyone. I am proud that he was a Swamiji of our Math. He was an inseparable part of the Math. He was a pride of the country. He crossed the border of untouchability, built hospitals, educational institutions, and homes for the aged. I am distraught at having lost such a great sage but I consider myself lucky that in spite of ill health, he had delivered his last discourse at the Rajangan of Sri Krishna Math.
Q: Differences between your previous and current Paryaya period.
A: In my first ever Paryaya, we were offering one lac Tulsi twigs to the Lord once a week. Inspired by its success, we turned this into a daily affair. On that occasion, a diamond armour had been offered to the Lord. This time, we made golden roof. This has instilled a sense of confidence that if we repose faith in the Lord, whatever we plan for can be achieved.
Q: What are your plans on religious propagation after descending the Sarvajna Peeta?
A: I have received a number of invitations from devotees spread over different places. Discourses and addresses will continue naturally. Mostly I will remain in the town. At the request of the junior Swamiji of Admar Math, I would like to deliver discourses once every week. Once in a way, I will be visiting places at the invitation of devotees.
Q: Your message to fans and devotees.
A: The presiding deity of Sri Krishna Math is a god who converses. He listens to what one says with love and devotion. He gives you comfort and drives away your woes. Just chant 'Sri Krishnaya Namaha' ten times every day. His grace will be upon you. May all the people live happily, and may the benefits of government schemes reach the people fully.