There is a conspiracy by external forces to obliterate Hindutva and if it is not prevented, it would have serious ramifications for the nation, Govardhanpeeth Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati said in Odisha’s pilgrim city Puri on Monday evening.
Speaking after performing during maha arati of the sea on the beach near Swargadwara here, the Shankaracharya said mainstream political parties have deviated from their ideologies and the political class has been a mute spectator to the threat looming on the horizon.
‘‘The rising materialistic culture has been detrimental to our culture. The nation is heading towards disaster in the name of development. In view of this, the ancient guru parampara, culture and values should be revived,’’ the Shankaracharya said.
The Hindu spiritual guru called upon his disciples and saints who had gathered here for the maha arati rituals to restore the traditional guru parampara.
The Shankaracharya also stressed on building an oppression-free nation as the politicians have digressed from their political ideologies.
He also urged the Sanatan Dharma gurus to reject the nationwide materialistic culture predominant in the country. Besides, he also advised the political parties not to disregard the saints as spiritualism can help build a strong India.
On the auspicious occasion of Paush purnima – the full moon day of the Hindu month of Paush – the Govardhanpeeth Shankaracharya performed maha arati of the sea in the presence of Puri King Gajapati Maharaj Divyasingh Dev, eminent personalities, head of mutts and saints from across the country.
‘‘Sanatan Dharma is the only way for salvation of mankind. The realisation of spiritual awakening can bring happiness in our lives,’’ Gajapati Maharaj Divyasingh Dev said.
Hinduism is an ancient religion. Overlooking it could be detrimental to the society at large. We should take a vow to preserve our religion, he advised.
Besides, Gajapati Maharaj also spoke at length about the importance and significance of the maha arati to them.