Vitla, August 9, 2026: People should rise above ego and possessiveness and lead their lives according to the principles of Dharma, said Sri Gurudevananda Swamiji of Sri Gurudevadatta Sansthana, Odiyoor.
“Spirituality is the heart of India. It helps us free ourselves from worldly bondage. The happiness that comes through a spiritual life cannot be found elsewhere. We must extend service to those who genuinely deserve it,” the Swamiji said.
He was speaking at the Dharma Sabha held as part of the Guruvandana Seva Sambhrama, organised to mark his birthday and the Gramotsava 2026 at Sri Gurudevadatta Sansthana, Odiyooru on Saturday.
Sadhvi Matanandamayi graced the programme. Environmentalist Dr. R.K. Nair received an honour for his contributions. Lokanath G. Shetty Thalippadiguthu and Saritha Lokanath performed Pada Puja of the Swamiji.
Devotional programmes mark birthday celebrations
The celebrations began with Ganapathi Havan and Mahapuja in the morning. Devotees then took part in a Shobhayatra to the Rajangana, where the Parashurama idol was unveiled.
The Odiyooru Balaga, led by Raviraj Shetty, presented Namassankirtana. Children from the Gurukula performed Guruvandana. Devotees also participated in Uyyaale Seva and Tulabhara Seva. This year's Tulabhara Seva used turmeric, cardamom, rock sugar, cashew and almonds.
₹15.43 lakh assistance distributed
As part of the celebrations, the committee extended financial assistance to people and families in need.
The assistance included support for 76 people facing health-related difficulties, 23 people for house construction or repairs, 19 meritorious individuals under the talent award initiative, 28 families as death condolence assistance, and seven locations for Shraddha Kendras. The organisers distributed assistance worth approximately ₹15.43 lakh in total.
‘Dedicate a part of your earnings to society’
Speaking at the programme, Dr. K. Prakash Shetty, chairman of M.R.G. Group, said people often face several difficulties while building their lives.
“With God's grace, we can overcome challenges and achieve success. Dreams and determination help us reach our goals. The love and trust of people are our greatest wealth. We should dedicate a part of what we earn to society,” he said.
‘Empower rural women and guide youth’
MP Capt. Brijesh Chowta said the Odiyooru institution had been making significant efforts towards the empowerment of women in rural areas and had contributed to the development of the district.
“Commitment and consistency in our work bring good results. We must use the potential of young people effectively in nation-building,” he said.
He also stressed the need to create awareness about the harmful effects of drugs. “Drug abuse is destructive. Every household must become aware of this issue. I will continue to work honestly on the path of truth, justice and Dharma,” Chowta said.
MLA Rajesh Naik U., M.R.G. Group chairman Dr. K. Prakash Shetty, former Bombay Bunts Association president Shyam N. Shetty, Doha Qatar Managing Director Dr. Ravi Shetty Moodambail, Mumbai businessman Bhaskar R. Shetty, senior advocate O. Shyam Bhat, progressive agriculturist Shyamaprasad Konale, businessman Vamayya B. Shetty, Chandrahassa Rai, Padmanabha Kottari, Damodara S. Shetty, Dr. Adip Krishna Shetty, Rohith Shetty Nagriguthu, Usha Kumar Shetty and A. Suresh Rai were present.
Vidyapeetha head teacher Renuka S. Rai offered the prayer. Mumbai Gurudeva Seva Balaga general secretary Petemane Prakash K. Shetty welcomed the gathering. Project public relations officer Mathesh Bhandary presented the report.
Birthday celebration committee general secretary Yashwanth Vittal proposed the vote of thanks, while Working President Navaneeth Shetty compered the programme.
Keywords: Gurudevananda Swamiji, Odiyooru, Gramotsava 2026, Guruvandana Seva, Vittal News, Brijesh Chowta, Spirituality and Dharma, Vitla News, Puttur News, Puttur Suddi, Vitla Suddi, Citizen News Puttur