Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah emphasises vision of humane society on Narayana Guru Jayanti
Aug 20, 2024
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], August 21 : Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated on Tuesday that building a society where everyone lives with dignity, as envisioned by Brahmashree Narayana Guru, should be the goal.
While addressing the Narayana Guru Jayanti celebration held at Ravindra Kalakshetra on Tuesday, the Chief Minister said, "Narayana Guru preached that there is only one caste, one religion, and one God among humans. We should all strive to live by these principles."
He said that Narayana Guru, despite being born into the Ezhava community, was not limited by any religion, caste, or language. He was a saint-like Buddha, Basava, and Kanakadasa, who dedicated his life to social reforms.
"In this spirit, the government is celebrating Narayana Guru Jayanti at the district and taluk levels," Siddaramaiah said. He pointed out the historical injustices of the caste system, where certain sections of society were denied property rights and access to education.
"Narayana Guru firmly believed that only through education can one break free from these shackles. Without education, there can be no self-respect, and slavery persists," the Chief Minister emphasised.
"Even after 77 years of independence, not everyone has had the opportunity to be educated. It is our responsibility to ensure our children receive an education. This is the true way to honor Narayana Guru," Siddaramaiah stated.
The Chief Minister also mentioned that during times when lower castes were denied temple entry, Narayana Guru took the initiative to build temples and appoint priests from the oppressed communities. "In Kerala alone, he built over 60 temples, and he spread the same message in the coastal regions, encouraging people not to visit temples that denied entry but to follow a simple and inclusive form of worship."
The Chief Minister paid floral tributes to the portrait of Narayana Guru and highlighted the importance of eliminating social inequalities to establish a just society. Siddaramaiah assured the government's commitment to providing funds for the renovation of the student hostel at the Ediga Association premises and the construction of a community hall.
He also promised to establish the Brahmashree Narayana Guru Development Corporation.
