The event was presided over by HE The Governor Sri Ariff Md Khan, with the presence of Hon. Chief Justice Sri. K. R. Shriram and Sri Sacchidananda Bharathi from Edneer Mutt.
Gurur Brahma Gurur Vishnu: Guru Devo Maheshwara: I
Guru Sakshat Para Brahma tasmai Sri gurave Namah: 11
Sruti Smruti Purananam Alayam Karunalayam I
Namami Bhagavadpada Sankaram Loka Sankaram 11
Apara Karunasindhum Gnanadam Shantarupinam I
Sri Chandrasekhara Gurum Pranamami Mudanvaham 11
Deve Dehe Sa Deshe Sa Bhaktyarogya Sukapradam I
Budhapamarasevyam Tam Sri Jayendram namamyaham 11
Sadasiva samarambal’TI sankaracarya madhyal’Tlam I
Asamad- acarya paryantal’TI vande guru paramparam 11
நமச்சிவாய வாழ்க! நாதன் தாள் வாழ்க!
இமைப்பொழுதும் என் நெஞ்சில் நீங்காதான் தாள் வாழ்க !!
அகர முதல எழுத்தெல்லாம் ஆதி
பகவன் முதற்றே உலகு.
During a visit to Mumbai, Puduperiyaval blessed by bestowing the prestigious ‘Guru Kainkarya Chakravarthy’ award upon Shri V. Shankar.
In continuation of this divine grace, Shri V. Shankar has been organizing a program for nearly thirty years to honour individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields. This program, known as the Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati Swami National Eminence Awards, recognizes and celebrates the achievements of people from diverse backgrounds, doing various charitable works, rare works, works that should be known to many, many good works that are completed and should be propagated in the world, whether it is carried out by the soldiers who have worked for the welfare of the nation, or for Carnatic music, whether it is work of the small children or by the affluent, people who have worked and still working for the welfare of the world. Many people who have excelled in various fields such as sciences, public services, satsangh, devotional and cultural activities, public life including politics were invited and honoured by him. He has also been holding various good programs like this one always.
In this southern region, where we invoke, “Hail the Lord Shiva of the South! Hail the Lord of all nations!”
தென்னாடுடைய சிவனே போற்றி! எந்நாட்டவர்க்கும் இறைவா போற்றி!
we must strive to preserve and promote our rich cultural heritage. We should not destroy our cultural symbols but actively celebrate our cultural symbols. A deep understanding of our cultural heritage, cultivated through dedicated study in educational institutions, is essential. A prime example is like the ancient Nalanda University, Ghatikasthanam, once renowned in Kanchipuram, which played a pivotal role in dispelling doubts in various arts and philosophies.
The Governor’s address today echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of institutions dedicated to Bharatiya Vidya. Thondai Manda lam, particularly Kanchi, has long been a centre of learning, the cradle of education, where education is pursued without hindrance. In this city of righteousness, (Dharmamigu Chennai) Chennai, blessed by our revered Puduperiaval, the need of the hour is a multifaceted approach to education. This includes scientific, administrative, financial, geographical, research-based, and faith based studies. It is crucial to recognize that faith-based study is also scientific study. Kanchi Mahaswami Vidyamandir, an institution renowned for its architectural beauty and academic excellence, continues to evolve and elevate its standards. Shri Shankar, hailing from this region, has established this institution with the vision of fostering growth, prosperity, and the protection of Dharma.
Shri Shankar, hailing from this southern region, has ventured to Mumbai. His vision is to foster growth and prosperity in his homeland. He aims to ensure that this region remains free from drought, fear, and threats to Dharma. Guided by these principles, he has nurtured the infrastructure of this Vidyamandir. Here, in this place, we find emphasis on both the nation and culture. Those who have dedicated their lives to the nation’s progress, whether through law, social service, or other means, often associated with the appellation ‘Brahmakshatra’. Similarly, those who strive to protect our souls, our world, and our noble values are equally revered. This Vidyamandir is a testament to this spirit. Though a thousand branches of Sama Veda once existed, today only three remain. To preserve this heritage, this beautiful campus is being established, managed, and expanded. This is indeed a noble endeavour.
Today, we are honoured to be here for two significant events. We have travelled from Karnataka to attend these functions. It is particularly heart-warming to see the Governor of Kerala grace the occasion. He visited Kanchipuram way back in 1987 as a central minister, and we recall him as a vibrant and energetic young man, who received blessings and encouragement from our revered Puduperiaval in Alwarpet, Chennai. His continued dedication to public service is truly inspiring. Today, he has come here as the chief guest. We went to Dharmasthala and Udupi for two weeks, and Swamiji of the Edaneer Math who has come today. We went to his hometown, Edaneer, in Kerala, and came back here for attending this event.
The first event commemorates the Constitution of India. The second one is the opening of the exhibition called ‘Jayendram’. It is a privilege to have our Chief Justice, who can speak fluently in Tamil, has come to our Tamil Nadu, to grace the occasion. His father came to Kanchipuram from Kurnool in the 1980s, maybe 85, 86, 87. In the year 84, we came to Kanchipuram from Kurnool. We stayed there for four or five years. At that time, a ‘Vyasa Bharata Kaladi Silpa Sadas’ was held at SSKV School, which is located next to Kamakshi Temple. At that time, many programs like Pancharathram, Vaikanasam, Saivagama, Terukkuthu were held. Sadas sessions were held. There were also art programs at that time, at the Dakshinamoorthy Arangam. There was a dance program called ‘Sakkiyar Koothu’. His father Rajan was from Bombay and was known as Sakkiyar Koothu Rajan. He used to stand on a plate (tambalam) and do all the dances and conduct all those events. It was a practice then. Later he used to conduct events in Bombay as well. He also took part in that as an artist; the speaker spoke beautifully about that today. It is fitting that the Chief Justice, whose father was a renowned Sakkyar Koothu artist, is present to honour this rich cultural heritage.
Our Maha Periyava, while living in Kumbakonam, foresaw the need to safeguard religious beliefs, scriptures, and cultural institutions within the framework of the Indian Constitution as a defence, preventive precaution. These religious beliefs, the scriptures should be protected. The religious institution’s honour and respect should be respected by both the government and the laws. The law should protect culture. We should also protect our customs. When we think about how law, society, and scriptures are related to each other, Mahaperiyava’s words for keeping honour and respect found their way in the constitution at that time itself. Not only the intention, but their words are also included in it. As a result of this, this culture is being preserved to some extent despite various confusions, challenges, obstacles, and sometimes even harm that may occur knowingly or unknowingly, this constitutional safeguard has played a crucial role in safeguarding our cultural heritage Just as God has armour, (Kavach), hymns have armour, idols have armour, similarly our Kanchi Mahaswami has given us armour that can protect Dharma through the constitution. His foresight has ensured the continuity of our spiritual and cultural traditions.
The profound spiritual and philosophical topics spoken by Governor are excellent, the Mahavakyas, the Bhagavad Gita, how can we take what Upanyasa (discourse) he has done today? (Laughing) Did he do Upanyasa on the Bhagavad Gita, did he do Advaita , or did he do Upanyasa on the constitution? There have been such great scholars, even among the kings. That is why governor came and spoke about gnana today, elevated the prestige of his office and highlighted the deep-rooted spiritual consciousness of our nation.
The Constitution, in its essence, embodies the principles of inclusivity and respect for diverse cultures and religions, that is Bhavartham. In the Sastras, there are Shabdhartham, Lakshyaartham, Bhavartham. Kaurartham. Shabdhartham is meaning whereas Lakshyaartham is objective. Kaurartham – Bhagtam, you can also say it like this, it is a kind of thing. Atma is the heart of that constitution, should not ignore culture. This is a country that can reward everyone, but this is not a country that can give Thiraskaram (திரஸ்காரம்). There is some vidya called Thiraskarani (திரஸ்கரணி), that is different. It recognizes the importance of cultural heritage and ensures that it is protected and nurtured; this is inclusive growth, what the governor said. Even before the United Nations talked about rights in the 1950s, this awareness had arisen in our country in the 1940’s.
When our Shankar spoke, he surprised many people. Today, he gave awards at the event, starting with each picture, and everything was a surprise. In this, Thanjavur painting, in the habit of making everything beautiful special and proud, is a very special project. Today, Bombay Shankar said that, 100 ‘Sri Jayendra Saraswati Swamigal Veda Vidya Peetham’ will be established during the upcoming centenary of our Puduperiyaval in all the places they have visited, it is a truly remarkable endeavour.
When he said that, he talked of ambassadors who can convey culture. During 1947, Periyava in a vedic school in Kumbakonam, used the word cultural ambassadors. The Independence came in August 1947. For the benefit of our nation, along with political ambassadors, cultural ambassadors are also needed, and they should work in the Inda-China area. We should not exaggerate the small differences and have a greater understanding. What we are saying today is what Pudu Periyava said while speaking in a Vedic school in Kumbakonam, and he expressed his thoughts with such a broad perspective. Swami Vivekananda preached in English in America. We should prepare cultural ambassadors related to Dharma, teaching them mathematics and English, and in the same way, to preach to foreign people in English. Today, there is a situation where it is easy to understand only if you speak English in our families. We must also learn our Tamil, we must learn Sanskrit, and we can learn English. This has been announced as a special program to prepare such cultural ambassadors. That constitution helped us to follow our culture, religion was supportive of law, law was supportive of religion, and society should be benefitted from it. This is how that good state of Triveni can be achieved. By establishing these Vedic Vidya Peethas, Shankar aims to cultivate a new generation of cultural ambassadors who can carry forward the rich heritage of India. This initiative not only strengthens our cultural identity but also fosters global understanding and harmony. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of Kanchi Mahaswami and a beacon of hope for the future.
In the constitituion of India in Article 48. Organisation of agriculture and animal husbandry.
The State shall endeavour to organise agriculture and animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines and shall, in particular, take steps for preserving and improving the breeds, and prohibiting the slaughter of cows and calves and other milch and draught cattle.
While there’s a strong focus on milking cattle, it’s equally important to care for those that have ceased to produce milk. This requires a collective effort that transcends political boundaries beyond party lines. For this, Mahaperiyava brought hundreds of cows and calves from abroad by air and given them in Ooty and in Assam with the help of Princess. As we have taken 75 years to do the things that we can be good at in terms of culture, the country should move forward without delaying it too much.
Only if we have principles, we will be successful. Things that need to be purified in the cultural field for 75 years. Therefore, without postponing it too much, the nation must progress; It’s crucial to balance progress with morality. Fanaticism has no place in a society that values its cultural roots. By adhering to ethical principles and fostering a sense of compassion, we can ensure a brighter future for our nation.
The success’s name is Jeyandrar. Maha periyava decided to give a new name from the existing names Prabhava, Vibhava, Nava, Yava and Angirasa. Mahaperiyava was born in the Jaya Varsham and at shashtiabtipurthi he gave sanyasa and blessed him with the name Jeyandra. Jayendra is the man behind this success. That is why he visited all the cities, including Kailasa and Manasarovar, and created unity in our country, with north and the south. If Arif Mohammad Khan, governor of Kerala, belonging to Uttarpradesh had come and specially attended this event, this shows Janakarshana Shakti (ஜன ஆகர்ஷண சக்தி) of our Pudu Periyava. Shankaracharya established Janakarshana yantra and Dhanakarshana yantra, we learn from ltihasa.
No matter who does small service, our Maha Periyaval never forgets it. Even if someone has bought some hay or else would have done some small charity. He never forgot the help he received over the years. In the same way, our Pudu Periyaval does not refuse to help anyone who comes and asks for help, to honour them, to honour and recognize everyone, whether poor or rich, labourer or landlord. He never forgets help received. He remembers to do good for everyone in society. That is why what we call antyodaya, developing poor people. Our Jayendra Saraswathi Swamiji is the one who implemented everything HE told. HE was following what HE was preaching. It’s easy to lecture and, it’s difficult to implement it. In this way, our Puduperiyaval went to all the cities, went to the North, spoke in Hindi and attended the Kumbh -Mela there. During Ayodhya discussions, he made every effort to ensure that Hindus and Muslims have understanding, compassion and what we reverently see as the smile, the smile of Kamakshi Amman. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life, is a testament to his charismatic leadership.
In the same way, Murari Bapu a well-known Hindu preacher in north, said ‘Muskurat Rahe’; Pudu Periyava has been a bridge between the north and south. His smile is such a happy thing, that it quenches everyone’s desire. To do good in society like this, some people may have lack of compassion, but he has lack of sleep but always worked with such enthusiasm. We got acquainted with Bapu while he was in Gujarat. We have seen him here in Tamil Nadu also.
Puduperiyava was on a pilgrimage through Gujarat. The event was very long extending from dawn to dusk and Puduperiyava used to walk. While walking, a place called Unjjanu he came with the elephant.
We went to Gujarat only after visiting the Sankara Matham in Mumbai. The elephant, which came in a lorry, was got down in a mound. Go (Cow) pooja and Gaja (elephant) pooja were performed, We were sitting in the pooja room when everything was going on. Then in Sanskrit, he said something like ‘woh aharam’. Before going to pooja, vegetable skins and fruits were given from Shri mutt to the elephant. At that time we saw his concern that those good things should happen. Even in the Gir forest, the elephant was safely brought and returned back. In such a way, that gau-puja, gaja-puja were held in a thousand villages and in every place the Tirtha Prasadam was given to everyone by Puduperiyava himself. Micro-charity like micro-finance. Whether you give two rupees, or whether you give fifty rupees, everyone got kumkum prasadam with his own hand. Old age homes, veda patashalas are run for the same; he is loving the people; through that love, propagate our Dharma and give Dharisanam at all villages in a special way and If there is a crowd, he stands in the chair and gives darshan, he does many such things, he gives opportunity to everyone, he gives comforts. Giving opportunity is one thing and giving comfort is another.
Though Tamil Nadu has this Padma vyuham, Chakra vyuham, Sakata vyuham and many other vyuhams, he was able to perform Kumbabhishekams, renovation of temples, help Oduvars, help Bhajan performers, give loans to them from Kanchipuram itself; because of this Dharmam flourished. All those who have repaid the loan were honoured. Bhairon Singh Shekavat, Rajashtan Chief Minister came for cultural festivals. Periyaval invited MGR to Congress Ground and held a program there called Hindu Religious Art Festival. He made the people understand Advaita even though the words are in Sanskrit. It is our Puduperiyava who have made it known in public life, everyone’s position is for helping others. The position is not for power, it is not for luxury, it is for helping others. With such a good impression this exhibition is a very important one. People remember bad things. There are good things. At this point, it’s important to remember good things.
That is why Bombay Shankar made such a beautiful exhibition called Jeyendram. He is a great exhibitor and least worried about expenses. He has a lot of experience and an expert also, he expands the vidyashala also. Long back, when he was building a factory on the Pune side of Jejuri, we visited a temple called Jejuri Khandoba Temple. We have been watching him since then. There are many experts in the field who do good things and do it in a special way. He has helped many experts in various fields, from tribal welfare to tradition preservation. He adopted many tribal villages in Maharashtra. These types of leaders are required, We have many heads (தலைகள்) but require leadership (தலைமை). Leaders need a lot of good ideas, thoughts and Inspiration. For a century Maha Periyava and Puduperiyava did lots of work that ensured Tamil Nadu remains in the cultural national mainstream. That is why Tamil Nadu remains in the cultural map of India. They emphasised the importance of Tamil language and popularised Thiruppavai, Thiruvempavai, Rama Nama Lekhanam. This is the real reform; money comes, power comes, what has to be done, what has not been done, what has been done wrong – reform takes care of all this. That is why, in this case, The things Pudu Periyaval did in Tamil Nadu irrespective of whether people support, whether they agree, who is in the government without looking at anything, they come to safeguard, support Vidya, Vaidyam, Vedam for everyone’s wellbeing. they thought of the pride of Tamil Nadu, the pride of India, and like it is said ‘Vasantavat Loka Hitam Charantha:’ everything is done for the benefit of the people.
True reform lies not in mere political rhetoric but in tangible actions that positively impact the lives of people. Kanchi Maha Periyava and Jayendra Swamigal exemplify this principle. They tirelessly worked to safeguard the cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu, irrespective of political affiliations or popular opinion. Their unwavering commitment to education, healthcare, and spiritual upliftment has left an enduring legacy.
Kesavananda Bharati Swamiji’s disciple from our Kerala conducted such a show very nicely. Mahaperiyava while sitting on the Palanquin used to say a lot about Kesavananda Bharati Swamiji. We didn’t know who he was. A few years later, we met him. He sings well. He is a good preacher. When Mahaperiyava came to Kattupalli near Chennai, he spoke in Kannada. Kesavananda Swamiji said, “When I came here at that time, he had given some great ideas and told me to do it. He also told some people to help me in implementing the ideas. If someone has tried something like this, then only it may come to the attention of the other people. Only by saving the land we can do the good things that need to be done. He worked very hard for that. That is why Swamiji also has come here and it is a good thing that he came from Kerala for the inauguration of the Constitution park.
(It was our Mahaswamiji who got the landmark judgment by advising Sri Kesavananda Bharati, the present Guru of Eduneer Mutt Swamijis, to file a case in the Supreme Court to uphold the rights of religious institutions in the constitution.) All of them are from Kerala. The swamiji’s is from Kerala, the governor is from Kerala, and the one who has come as Chief Justice is also a native of Kerala. Adi Shankaracharya also came from Kerala. The programme is going on well. In the times to come, Shastra should also grow, the dignity of the law should also be respected, and high ideologies have been created in society and the Constitution has given that high responsibility. Everyone over the age of 18 can vote. The governor said, a hundred years after democracy came to America, it gave women rights. Kalidasa used to say that women are smarter even without education; he says, ‘Strinam asik$ita patutvam’. In our country, there is Ardhanareeswarar philosophy in Tiruchengode. That’s why women were given so much respect. There’s no downside to it. A nation that respects all. Our country is celebrating Navaratri. In such a country, when the Chief Justice spoke, he always referred to responsibilities in addition to rights. People should realise their responsibilities. They have given king’s post to you, you should not be old and useless.
All are kings of this country. But when we are kings, there must be a background. Give them education. This Mahaswami Vidyapeeth is for imparting that education. To make people aware of those responsibilities, we need revenue, we need respect, and we have been given those rights. You need to have the right thinking. Which is education with culture, education with devotion to God, education that teaches us our duty. Shankar has done a good job in Chennai to bring such an education system based on Bhagavad-gita with the blessings of the Maha Periyava; he had done a lot for Pudu Periyava his favorite guru, the adorable guru.
Let us pray for the continued growth and success of this beautiful institution and success in everyone’s life, to Pudu Periyava and the Guru Parampara of ‘Vande Guru Paramparam’ and Kamakshi Ambal. ■
Hara Hara Shankara! Jaya Jaya Shankara!!
Translated: K. Lalitha
