Mangaluru: “Our culture has always inspired universal brotherhood, global welfare, world peace, equality and harmony. Many countries around the world look to India for spiritual and mental well-being,” said Governor of Karnataka Thaawar Chand Gehlot.He was speaking at the inauguration of the gopura and mantapa at the Sri Kodandarama, Panchamukhi Anjaneya Kshetra, Hanumangiri temple and Brahmakalashotsava ceremony at Hanumagiri near Puttur in Dakshina Kannada district.“Indian culture considers nature sacred – rivers, mountains, trees, animals and birds are all part of the cycle of life. This approach is highly relevant in addressing today’s environmental crisis and aligns with the principles of sustainable development,” he noted.“This site is not only a religious place but also a source of spiritual peace and inspiration for devotees and a centre of cultural and social inspiration for the community. It is believed that during the Treta yug, when Hanuman was carrying the Sanjeevani mountain, a part of the mountain fell here, and is now famous as Hanumangiri. This place symbolises the unique bond between Lord Ram and Hanuman and is considered the ‘Southern Ayodhya’. This sacred land symbolises the ideals of Lord Ram and the unwavering devotion of Hanuman,” he said.“This day marks a golden chapter in spiritual history. Today, the grand inauguration of the gopura and mantapa and the Brahmakalashotsava is an exciting celebration of our eternal faith, culture and spiritual tradition. This festival further enhances the dignity of this pilgrimage site. The gopura and mantapa are living symbols of faith, devotion, tradition and cultural awareness. To achieve spiritual heights in life, it is essential to adopt the path of dedication, discipline and service, as this towering gopura reminds us,” he explained.The Governor said Indian culture is eternal. “Our saints and sages have continuously preserved it since time immemorial. Sages, saints, acharyas and rishis have hoisted the flag of religion, culture and spirituality on the world stage,” he said and called for strengthening religion and culture further.Sri Raghaveshwara Bharati Swami of Sri Ramachandrapura Mutt and DK MP Capt Brijesh Chowta were present.
