“Let us walk the path of Dharma and strive as guided by the message of Lord Sri Krishna”: Guv

Bengaluru Express
Udupi, July 26: The teachings of Lord Sri Krishna serve as a guiding light to balance karma (action), dharma (righteousness), bhakti (devotion), jnana (knowledge), and seva (service) in life, said Hon’ble Governor of Karnataka, Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot.
He was speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the Sri Krishna Janmashtami Mandalotsava, organized by Sri Puttige Matha at the sacred Sri Krishna Matha in Udupi.
Quoting the Bhagavad Gita verse—
“Yada Yada Hi Dharmasya Glanir Bhavati Bharata, Abhyutthanam Adharmasya Tadaatmanam Srijamyaham,” the Governor noted that this sloka, spoken by Lord Krishna to Arjuna, emphasizes the divine incarnation for the protection of dharma and the destruction of evil. “If one deeply understands the essence of Sri Krishna’s message, it becomes a path not only to uphold righteousness but also to achieve success in life,” he remarked.
Calling his participation in the Janmashtami Mandalotsava an honour, the Governor appreciated Sri Puttige Matha, one of the revered Ashta Mathas of Udupi, for preserving and promoting the Dvaita Vedanta tradition while also adapting it to modern times. He praised the Matha’s commitment to devotion, knowledge, and service.

He also lauded Pujya Sri Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji for bringing global recognition to the Matha’s spiritual legacy. “His efforts to spread Vedanta and Sanatana Dharma across countries like the USA, Canada, and Australia have helped build a cultural and spiritual bridge with the world,” the Governor noted.
Describing the festival as a sacred blend of “spiritual awakening, cultural consciousness, and social unity”, the Governor highlighted the universal relevance of Lord Krishna’s teachings. “The words of Bhagavan Sri Krishna—Yogeshwara—carry timeless messages about protecting righteousness and eliminating unrighteousness,” he said.
“From the playful divine acts in his childhood to the wisdom-filled counsel during the Mahabharata war, Sri Krishna’s life inspires devotion, duty, fearlessness, and mindful action,” he observed.
He particularly referred to the Gita’s instruction to Arjuna during a time of moral dilemma: “Karmanye Vadhikaraste Ma Phaleshu Kadachana” — emphasizing selfless action without attachment to outcomes. “In today’s world of confusion, intolerance, and self-centeredness, this message is more relevant than ever,” he said. “Through the practice of Karma Yoga, Jnana Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga, one must fulfill their responsibilities in the spirit of selflessness.”
He concluded by urging everyone to follow the path shown by Lord Krishna and imbibe righteousness in their conduct and thoughts, striving for the betterment of society.
Pujya Sri Sugunendra Theertha Sripadaru, Pujya Sri Vishwapriya Theertha Swamiji, Sri Sushreendra Theertha Swamiji (Junior Pontiff of Puttige Matha), MLA Yashpal Suvarna, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.