Udupi (Karnataka), Nov 28 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi took part with great enthusiasm in the 'Laksha Kantha Gita' chanting at the Udupi Sri Krishna Math in Karnataka on Friday, surrounded by a crowd of one lakh devotees.

Following the event, the Prime Minister expressed that he gained strength and blessings to enhance his service to the nation.

Sitting on the stage alongside esteemed religious leaders, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, and other dignitaries, PM Modi received a brochure featuring verses from the Bhagavad Gita. He joined the gathering in reciting the verses with a serious demeanor.

PM Modi recited passages from Chapter 15 – Purushottama Yoga of the Bhagavad Gita – and concluded with the last ten shlokas of the final chapter.

In his address to the attendees, he remarked, "Participating in the Gita recital with one lakh individuals is akin to achieving the rewards of countless good deeds. The honor and sentiments shown towards me have provided immense blessings. I shall endeavor to be worthy of such expectations and work even harder."

Quoting from the Ram Charit Manas, the Prime Minister noted that in Kalyug, chanting the Bhagavad Gita and engaging in kirtans serve as paths to spiritual accomplishment. He added that when a lakh voices recite the Gita together, they create a new energy and strength for both the mind and body.

"This energy embodies the essence of spirituality and social unity. This initiative has forged a unique experience, showcasing to the global community the power of collective consciousness. I express my gratitude to Sugunendra Teertha Swamiji for manifesting this vision. His global initiative for the Koti Gita Yagna is a significant movement dedicated to Sanatana Dharma," he stated.

Commending the youth for their interest in the Gita, he highlighted India's long-standing tradition of sharing knowledge from the Vedas, Upanishads, and Shastras with younger generations. He remarked that this program has effectively connected the youth with the Bhagavad Gita.

Prime Minister Modi also acknowledged Udupi’s vital role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. Reflecting on his recent trip to Ayodhya, he mentioned, "Just three days ago, I was in Ayodhya for the Dharma Dhwaj hoisting. The entire nation recognizes Udupi's significant involvement in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement."

He remembered the late Vishvesha Teertha Swamiji, noting that the flag hoisting ceremony in Ayodhya was a product of his efforts. PM Modi remarked that the construction of the Ram Temple holds special importance for Udupi, as one of its grand entrances honors Jagadguru Madhvacharya.

He added that Jagadguru Madhvacharya, who advocated for the Dvaita philosophy, guided society through challenging times and established the Ashta Mathas, which continue to support the community through devotion, knowledge, and food distribution.

The Prime Minister also paid tribute to great saints like Purandaradasa and Kanakadasa, who made devotion accessible to the masses through simple Kannada. He noted that their influence remains strong among today’s youth, many of whom turn to social media to listen to devotional content that transports them to a spiritual realm.

Expressing his affection for Karnataka, he stated that each visit to this state, renowned for its warm hospitality, brings him great joy.

Later, PM Modi visited the Madhwa Sarovara, had darshan of the deity, and conducted a special puja.

He unveiled the "Kanaka Kavacha" (a golden covering) for the sacred "Kanakana Kindi" at the mutt and adorned the statue of Kanakadasa with garlands. (The Kanakana Kindi refers to the legendary moment when Lord Krishna’s idol turned to offer darshan to Kanakadasa, who was denied entry into the temple due to his caste.)

PM Modi also engaged with all seers of the Ashta Mutts at the Chandrashale and received their blessings.