Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a significant visit to Udupi on Friday, where he paid homage at the historic Kanaka Mantap and joined a massive religious gathering of over one lakh devotees for a collective recitation of the Bhagavad Gita.
Homage to Saint Kanakadasa at Historic Shrine
The Prime Minister began his spiritual journey by offering floral tributes at Kanaka Mantap to the revered 14th-15th century saint-philosopher Kirthanakar Kanakadasa. The saint holds a special place in Hindu tradition, particularly for the legendary episode where Lord Krishna's idol miraculously turned westward at the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple in response to Kanakadasa's devotion.
Following the tribute ceremony, Modi proceeded to the Sri Krishna Temple complex, where he received a traditional welcome. Temple authorities, led by Paryaya Puthige Math seer Sugunendra Thirtha, along with the Diwan of the Math and senior temple officials, greeted the Prime Minister with traditional honors.
Massive Gita Recitation with Over One Lakh Devotees
The highlight of the visit was Modi's participation in the "Laksha Geeta Pathana" - a mass recitation event where more than one lakh devotees collectively chanted verses from the Bhagavad Gita. The Prime Minister joined the spiritual gathering accompanied by Sugunendra Thirtha, Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot, and other dignitaries.
During the ceremony, Modi actively participated by reading out hymns alongside the massive congregation. The event showcased the deep cultural and spiritual significance of the Bhagavad Gita in Indian tradition.
Special Connection with Udupi's Political Legacy
Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Modi highlighted his special connection with Udupi, noting that the city has been a "karmabhoomi" (land of action) for both the Jana Sangh and the BJP's governance model. He recalled that in 1968, the people of Udupi elected Jana Sangh leader VS Acharya to the municipal council, marking the foundation of a new governance approach.
Modi spent considerable time inside the sanctum precincts of the temple, acknowledging the significance of Kanakadasa's devotion and the enduring cultural legacy associated with the sacred site.
Traditional Welcome and Second Temple Visit
The Prime Minister received a Poorna Kumbh swagatham (traditional welcome ceremony) as he entered the Krishna Math precincts. Temple authorities presented him with a silver-clad Tulasi Japa mala and Mudras containing Shankha, Chakra, Gada, and Padma - ritual objects used by Madhwas and most Brahmin communities for their daily Pooja rituals in South India.
This visit marked Modi's second pilgrimage to the Krishna temple, having previously visited in 2008 when he served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat. Notably, the same Swamiji, Sugunendra Thirtha, was the administrative head of the Krishna Math during both visits.
The Prime Minister's engagement with the spiritual traditions of Udupi underscores the continuing importance of India's cultural heritage in contemporary political leadership.
