Viveka Memorial! Authorities should protect identity of Niranjana Mutt too, urges Akhila Bharata Veerashaiva Mahasabha
2 min read
Mysuru: While the activists are divided over the proposed Viveka Memorial and Maharani’s NTMS School, Akhila Bharata Veerashaiva Mahasabha has demanded the authorities concerned to protect the identity of Niranjana Mutt.
Lokesh Thumbala a prominent Veerashaiva- Lingayat leader associated with the Mahasabha from Mysuru has stated that “The Viveka Memorial is planned on the premises of Niranjana Mutt abutting the school. The proposal dates back to the year 2009 when BJP government was at rule then and the Mahasabha had submitted a memorandum to Kannada and Culture department in this regard. The Mahasabha is still committed to its stand as the issue over the memorial has turned into a hot debate again in the recent days. To clarify, Mahasabha is not against the memorial and is also for the fervent appeal to save NTM School, but there should not be any compromise over the identity of the mutt, which is an epitome of Veerashaiva Lingayat tradition.
It is historically evident that “When Swami Vivekananda came to the city a century ago, the monk was provided shelter at the mutt. True to its belief in 13th century revolutionary Basavanna’s Vachana “Athithi Devobhava” (Guest is equal to God) Swami Vivekananda was accommodated at the mutt without any discrimination. It was a matter of pride and history should be recalled at this juncture. Hence, it’s a welcome move that the memorial is planned at the same place.”
The personality of Swami Vivekananda is lofty and the society has a wide respect and reverence towards the monk. At the same time, the memorial has to be planned without hurting the religious sentiments associated with the mutt.
The structures at the mutt should be restored as it is the sum opinion of the Mahasabha. The Gadduge, idol of Linga, the structure of Basava stop the main door of the mutt should be renovated and measures should be taken to appoint a priest for regular puja at the mutt. Arrangements should be made long with Muzrai department to open the doors of the mutt for the believers to visit the place during Shivarathri. We also welcome, if any decision is taken to hand over the management of the mutt to any Veerashaiva Lingayat associations.
To remind, the Viveka Memorial works must be taken up without compromising with the significance of NTM School and the mutt. If any Trust is formed in this regard those representing the tradition of the mutt, religious heads and leaders of Veerashaiva- Lingayat should be on board, urge the office- bearers of the Mahasabha, central, state, district, city and taluk units and youth wing.
– Team Mysoorunews
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