Udupi Turns Devotional as Governor Launches 48-Day Mandalotsava

Udupi, July 24, 2025: Karnataka Governor Thaawar Chand Gehlot on Friday inaugurated the month-and-a-half-long Sri Krishna Janmashtami Mandalotsava at Udupi Sri Krishna Matha and urged devotees to follow the path of righteousness as taught in the Bhagavad Gita.

“Let us walk the path of dharma and strive for the betterment of society, as Sri Krishna taught through the Gita,” he said.

The Governor emphasized that in a world grappling with terrorism, intolerance, and a loss of spiritual consciousness, the timeless teachings of the Bhagavad Gita serve as a remedy. “Sri Krishna’s life—from his divine childhood to the philosophical teachings of the Gita—is a source of eternal inspiration. Acting without attachment and upholding righteousness are the key messages we must live by,” he noted.

He lauded the contributions of the Puthige Matha and its pontiff, Sri Sugunendra Tirtha Swamiji, for spreading Indian culture and Krishna consciousness globally. “By establishing Krishna temples abroad, especially in the United States, Swamiji has played a vital role in taking the message of Krishna to the world,” he said.

Gehlot also highlighted the cultural unity between North and South India, stating that while deities like Rama and Krishna incarnated in the North, spiritual giants like Shankaracharya and Madhvacharya were born in the South. “Karnataka holds a sacred place in this legacy, being the land of Hanuman’s birth and the seat of Madhvacharya in Udupi,” he added.

Swamiji, delivering his benediction, explained the intent behind the 48-day celebration: “Sri Krishna, the beloved of devotees, came from Dwaraka to Udupi. It was Acharya Madhva who consecrated the deity here for devotees to behold.” He emphasized the significance of spreading Krishna’s values and teachings throughout the celebration.

Governor Gehlot was honored by the Swamiji during the event. Dignitaries present included MLA Yashpal Suvarna, MAHE Pro-Chancellor Dr. H.S. Ballal, entrepreneurs Raghavendra Rao and Balekudru Ramachandra Upadhyaya. Matha Diwan Nagaraj Acharya and Secretary Prasannacharya coordinated the proceedings, with narration by Dr. Gopalacharya and Raman Acharya. The event also featured Vedic chants by Raghavendra Acharya.