Brahmashri Narayana Guru Jayanti Celebrated at Kudroli Gokarnanatha Temple, Mangaluru

Brahmashri Narayana Guru Jayanti Celebrated at Kudroli Gokarnanatha Temple, Mangaluru

Mangaluru, September 8, 2025 – In a heartfelt tribute to one of India’s most revered social reformers, the Brahmashri Narayana Guru Jayanti was celebrated with solemnity and purpose at Shree Gokarnanatha Temple, Kudroli. The celebrations were held under the joint auspices of the Dakshina Kannada District Administration, Zilla Panchayat Kannada and Culture Department, and in collaboration with the temple management.

The event was inaugurated by Umanath A Kotian, MLA of Moodbidri, who highlighted the enduring legacy of Narayana Guru:

“Brahmashri Narayana Guru was a visionary saint who gave the world the message of ‘One caste, one religion, one God’. Even as a young boy, he stood against societal discrimination. He was not only a philosopher but also a liberator who helped the marginalised attain dignity and recognition. His teachings remain a guiding light – let us embody them in our lives.”

MLC Ivan D’Souza, presiding over the ceremony, emphasized the universal relevance of Guru’s teachings:

“Narayana Guru’s Jayanti is a message for all humanity. That’s why the government under Siddaramaiah’s leadership chose to officially observe this day. His influence in Kerala led to sweeping social and educational reforms. When we accept that humanity belongs to one caste, discrimination has no place. His call for unity is something that must reach every corner of our nation.”

A lecture on the life and work of the Guru was delivered by Smithesh S Barya, who illuminated the silent revolution led by Narayana Guru:

“Brahmashri Narayana Guru launched a spiritual and social renaissance against untouchability and inequality. Through movements like SNDP, he opened the doors of knowledge for the masses. His message remains timeless – especially crucial for world peace today.”

Dignitaries in Attendance

The event was attended by prominent personalities including Sadashiva Ullal, chairman of Mangaluru Urban Development Authority; Mamatha Gattidadka, chairperson of Karnataka Cashew Development Corporation; Narvade Vinayak Karbari, CEO of the Zilla Panchayat; Raju, additional deputy commissioner; Anil Kumar, additional superintendent of police; and members of the Kudroli Temple Administrative Board, including Jayaraj H and Padmaraj.

The welcome address was delivered by Rajesh, assistant director of the Kannada and Culture Department, while the programme was expertly anchored by Dinesh Rai.

Teachers’ Day Celebrated with Dedication at Halekote

In parallel, Teachers’ Day was observed at the Syed Madani Educational Institution, Halekote, under the aegis of the Syed Madani Charitable Trust.

Mohammad Twaha, former general secretary of Ullal Dargah, spoke on the invaluable role of educators:

“We live life based on our faith in God. While our parents show us the path initially, it is the teachers who hold our hands and guide us forward. Even in expensive private schools, students often rely on tuition. But here at Halekote School, without charging fees or resorting to private tuition, children are achieving excellent results. This stands as proof of the teachers’ sincerity – they are not just working for a salary, but with dedication and passion.”

Notable guests included H R Eshwar, Block Education Officer; Zanuddin, President of Halekote Mastidul Kareem; Ismail Hajabba, School Administrator; Althaf U H, Member, School Development Committee; Ibrahim M H, Former Administrator; Rafiq Tumbe, President, Fine Arts Teachers’ Association; Shashikala Shetty, Retired Teacher; and Naseema, Headmistress of Hazrath Syed Madani School, Kallapu.

Students Sareekathul Tabassum and Fatimath Safa compered the event, while Fatima Sahla extended the vote of thanks.

The twin celebrations reflected the enduring values of social equality, education, and compassion, marking a day of inspiration and reflection for Mangaluru’s communities.