Outgoing Puttige mutt seer Sugunendra Theertha Swamiji wishing Shiroor Mutt seer Vedavardhana Theertha Swamiji.
Credit: DH Photo
The Shiroor Mutt in Udupi stands as a revered centre of spiritual wisdom and devotion. Guided through the ages by an unbroken lineage of 30 illustrious seers, the institution continues its mission of service, discipline, and enlightenment under the leadership of its 30th pontiff Vedavardhana Theertha Swamiji. The young pontiff, who will ascend the Paryaya Peetha today, outlined his vision and priorities.
What are your key plans for the next two years?
One of the most important initiatives will be ‘Nitya Veda Patana’, the daily chanting of four Vedas. With five pandits reciting each Veda, around 20 learned pandits will be appointed for this purpose. Priority will be given to maintaining cleanliness in and around the temple. Another key focus will be on improving the ‘darshan system’. Devotees in the queue are often pushed and are not allowed to stand calmly before the deity. We will ensure that every devotee gets sufficient time to have a peaceful glimpse of Lord Krishna and offer prayers.
The previous system of entry through the normal entrance will be reintroduced keeping devotees’ convenience in mind. Above all, efforts will be taken to spread the message of Lord Krishna far and wide.
As you are ascending the Sarvajna Peeta for the first time, how do you feel about this responsibility?
One has to be very fortunate to be entrusted with such a responsibility. There are many emotions within me, and at times it feels overwhelming, but it is all by the grace of the Lord.
Who influenced you the most on your spiritual path?
Without doubt, my parents played the most significant role. Their values, discipline and outlook towards spirituality had a deep influence on shaping my thoughts.
You undertook ‘Theerthayatra’. As a first-time experience, what stood out for you?
The inner peace and happiness I experienced in the presence of Lord Padmanabha at Thiruvananthapuram and Lord Venkateshwara at Tirupati are beyond explanation. Those moments brought immense spiritual fulfillment and calmness.
What differences did you observe while travelling across various parts of the country?
One striking observation was that devotion and spirituality in North India are very intense, and they gradually reduce as one moves towards the southern parts of the country. But when it comes to the flow of knowledge, the southern region has a stronger tradition compared to the northern parts.
As the youngest among the Ashta Mutt seers, how do you plan to involve all seers during your Paryaya?
I will seek guidance from all senior seers. With their support, I hope to remain firmly connected to Lord Krishna and carry out my duties responsibly.
You have said that this will be ‘everyone’s Paryaya’.
We plan to organise Krishna Camps to disseminate the teachings and messages of Lord Krishna and Lord Rama. Devotees will also be given an opportunity to enroll and register through a website if they wish to serve Lord Krishna. They will be provided free food and accommodation during their service period, after which they can actively contribute to the functioning of the Mutt.
How do you plan to address the financial challenges faced by the Mutt?
A third party, which was assigned to develop our property, mortgaged the asset and raised funds. We are contesting the case in the court.
You once aspired to become a scientist. Do you regret choosing the spiritual path?
I have no regrets at all. Research does not end here. I will continue to study Vedas and other spiritual texts. I can continue my research through spiritual and philosophical studies as well.