Karnataka March 06, 2014: “Hindu culture is the embodiment of spirituality, ancient heritage, apart from love and affection towards fellow beings. Hinduism preaches unity in diversity that is driven by these three principles,” said Sri Gurudevananda Swamiji of Odiyoor.

He was addressing the participants of ‘Jagruta Hindu Sangama’ programme organized on Sunday March 2 near Goddess Chandika Parameshwari Temple at B C Road.

“The present day society has given up richness of our ancient heritage and culture. This has provided encouragement to even the government to question our belief systems. Efforts are being made by the government to take over temples and Maths. In a nutshell, Hindu culture is being battered because of assault from various corners,” he explained.

He said that people need to be careful in choosing the right leader based on the dire necessity to take cudgels to protect themselves. Noting that fresh air is blowing through the country now, he exhorted the society to choose people who can give an able leadership to the country.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh leader, Dr Prabhakar Bhat Kalladka, who presided over the programme, felt that organizing of Hindu Sangama programmes is necessary to ensure unity, integration, and protection of Hindu society. Expressing his opposition to Netravati River Diversion Project, he questioned the stand of Congress leaders, some of whom are opposing the project, with several others stoutly supporting it. He asked these leaders to come forward and clarify their stands.

Karnataka state unit of Bharatiya Swabhiman Trust leader, Niket Raj, in his keynote address, requested people to choose Narendra Modi as the next leader of the country to ensure that the country remains united and becomes stronger.

A procession taken out before the programme was flagged off by Sri Viveka Chaitanyananda Swamiji of Polali Ramakrishna Tapovana near Kallige Polali arch.  Hindu Hitarakshana Samiti Bantwal taluk committee convener, Jitendra S Kottary, welcomed. Advocate, Prasad Kumar, delivered introductory address. Satish Pallamajalu proposed vote of thanks. Municipal councilor, Devadas Shetty, presented the programme.