GOKARNA, July 29: The primary responsibility of a Guru is not merely to possess knowledge but to guide society towards righteousness, said Jagadguru Shankaracharya Sri Sri Raghaveshwara Bharati Mahaswamiji during the inaugural discourse of the 33rd Anna Brahma Chaturmasya at Ashoke, Gokarna, on Wednesday.
Addressing a large gathering of devotees, the Seer explained that a person who knows what is right is a Jnani (one with knowledge), but a Guru is one who understands the truth and leads others along that path.
"Showing the right path to society is the foremost duty of a Guru," he said.
Drawing inspiration from Adi Shankaracharya, the Swamiji said the great philosopher safeguarded Sanatana Dharma across the country without political power or wealth. By travelling throughout India and establishing Mathas, Adi Shankaracharya ensured that Dharma would continue to guide future generations.
"The purpose of Shankaracharya must remain the purpose of every Matha. Our responsibility is to spread Dharma, distinguish right from wrong, and guide society on the path of righteousness," he said.
Anna Brahma Chaturmasya Focuses on Food Awareness
Explaining this year's Chaturmasya theme, the Seer said Anna Brahma Chaturmasya seeks to create awareness about food and healthy living.
Referring to last year's Swabhasha Chaturmasya, which focused on language and speech, he noted that both observances are symbolically connected to the tongue—one through speech and the other through food.
He expressed concern that society today pays attention to trivial matters while neglecting essential aspects of life.
"People eat merely to fill their stomachs without thinking about what they eat, how the food is prepared, or how it should be consumed. Educational institutions are not providing adequate awareness about food. Since we become what we eat, this Chaturmasya aims to educate society about the right and wrong aspects of food," he said.
The Swamiji also observed that those who stand for truth inevitably face opposition, pointing out that even great personalities such as Lord Rama and Lord Krishna encountered resistance while upholding Dharma.
Vyasa Puja Marks the Beginning of the 33rd Chaturmasya
Earlier in the day, the 33rd Chaturmasya Vrata commenced with the traditional Vyasa Puja, performed by the Seer in accordance with the customs of the Matha. Ritual worship was offered to Lord Rama, Lord Krishna, Sage Vyasa and other deities before the formal commencement of the observance.
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| 33rd Anna Brahma Chaturmasya Begins at Gokarna with Vyasa Puja |
Mugali Tirumaleshwara Bhat offered the Sarvaseva, while the couple Manjunatha Suvarnagadde performed the Sabhapuja. Devika Shastri delivered the introductory address, and the day's proceedings were coordinated by the couple G. S. Hegde.
Among those present were the Matha's Chief Operating Officer Santosh Hegde, Chief Financial Officer Ganesh J. L., Shasanatantra President Mohana Bhaskara Hegde, Secretary K. P. Edappady, Havyaka Mahamandala President Hariprasad Periyapu, Secretary Mahesh Chatnalli, Chaturmasya Chief Coordinator Chandan Shastri, office-bearers of various mandalas, and devotees from across Karnataka and other states. All devotees received Vyasa Mantrakshate after the ceremony.
Sacred Guru–Disciple Bond Highlighted
Following the Vyasa Puja, the Jagadguru took the traditional Garudasana and formally declared his resolve to observe the Chaturmasya Vrata for the four fortnights of the rainy season, provided it caused no harm to any living being.
In response, the assembled disciples humbly requested the Seer to accept their service in conducting the daily rituals throughout the Chaturmasya, praying for his blessings and the welfare of all devotees.
The moving exchange reflected the deep spiritual bond between the Guru and the disciple, forming one of the most significant moments of the inaugural ceremony.
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