Union Minister for Food, Public Distribution and Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi said India remains stable amid global unrest due to its spiritual values as he paid tribute to the late Shivakumar Swamiji during the 119th birth anniversary celebrations and Guruvandana Mahotsava in Tumakuru.
Speaking at the event on Wednesday, he said, “If there is peace, culture and etiquette in this country, it is because of seers like him. At a time when the world is facing unrest and multiple challenges, India has remained stable.” He noted that despite concerns raised earlier about possible shortages of petrol and diesel, the country has not faced any such crisis.
“In many parts of the world, people are worried about missiles and explosions. In our country, we are able to hold religious and cultural gatherings peacefully. That is possible only because of our spiritual foundation,” he said. Recalling remarks by former Prime Minister late Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Joshi said that Vajpayee had once observed that while North India has the Ganga, South India has Siddaganga.
“The River Ganga washes away sins, while Siddaganga Mutt removes darkness by providing free education and food,” he said, adding that while politicians can govern a country, spiritual leaders like Shivakumar Swamiji shape future generations.
He also referred to President Droupadi Murmu's visit, stating that her meditation at the Swamiji’s samadhi reflects his enduring spiritual influence. “Though he is no longer physically present, his devotion and penance continue to guide us,” he said.
Describing his experience at the mutt, Joshi said, “The moment one steps into the campus, it feels like entering a divine world. I say this with great pride. Siddaganga Mutt is not just a religious institution; it is a modern centre of values and discipline.”
He highlighted that the mutt provides free food and education to thousands of children and also instils moral values. “No university in the world imparts such a combination of education and values as Siddaganga Mutt,” he said. Praising the seer’s life, Joshi said Shivakumar Swamiji understood the pain of hunger and dedicated his life to serving the poor.
“He became a father figure to orphans and ensured that no one went hungry. Calling this campus a land of gods is not an exaggeration,” he said. He added that the seer broke barriers of caste and religion and worked towards social justice and equality.
“He ensured that no one was denied quality education due to lack of money,” he said. Joshi noted that Shivakumar Swamiji lived for 111 years and remained active until his last breath. “He slept for less than four hours a day and was always concerned about the welfare of children, society and the poor,” he said.
He further said that the kitchen started nearly 90 years ago at the mutt continues to function even today, serving free food and education to around 10,000 children. “He attained a divine status through his deeds, and his legacy continues to inspire generations,” he added.