Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, on Thursday, said the country is in need of learning brotherhood and eradicating hatred as taught by 12th Century social reformer Basaveshwara.
"Basavanna taught us that we are all one, should live as one family, without hatred and discrimination based on caste, creed or religion. The brotherhood you teach here, in this mutt, is what the country needs today. There is a need to curb hatred that is spreading in the country and I believe your institution is doing it well. The swamiji and all the devotees need to be lauded for this," said the Congress leader while addressing a gathering of students and devotees at the Sri Siddaganga Mutt in Tumakuru, on the eve of the 115th birth anniversary of Sri Sri Sri Shivakumara Swamiji, on Thursday.
“I remember Sri Sri Shivakumara Swamiji. For years, he was a guiding light to us. During my last meeting, I had met him and today it makes me sad to think he is not here. However, he has shown us the right path and we need to take that path – of educating the youth and helping the poor,” Gandhi said.
The Congress leader said he felt happy to see the good work the institution has been doing by imparting education to thousands of children.
Gandhi recalled that he had visited the mutt earlier like his grandmother, father and mother. “Our family has had a long association with this mutt. I reiterate that we are ready to extend whatever assistance that you may need.”
Sri Siddalinga Swamiji, pontiff of Sri Siddaganga Mutt, endorsed Rahul Gandhi’s speech, saying there was a need to live like humans, by keeping away from hatred and envy.
“My guru Sri Sri Sri Shivakumara Swamiji used to say 'democracy is the progress of all under the leadership of the wisest and the best'. For Democracy to thrive, we need good leadership, and leaders who have both character and talent. I believe Rahul Gandhi is one such leader and hope he will contribute to the growth and development of the country,” said Sri Siddalinga Swami.
Earlier, the pontiff expressed happiness over Rahul Gandhi’s visit saying, “It is a matter of great joy that a person of great eminence and political leader has visited our mutt. Previously, his mother Sonia Gandhi had also visited this holy ashram and took the blessings of our guru. Both leaders have great affinity and devotion towards the mutt. It was a momentous occasion when former prime minister Indira Gandhi had paid a visit to the mutt. Today, once again, it is a momentous occasion to welcome Rahul Gandhi to our mutt. Rahul Gandhi is an inspiration to the youth and is playing key role in national politics.”
