“Religious mutts have played a key role in the development of villages in Karnataka and have revolutionised the society in the rural belts. These mutts have taken on the responsibility of development apart from carrying on their religious activities,” said MLA G.T. Devegowda.

He was speaking after inaugurating the 28th Punyaradhane of Lingaikya Sri Mahantha Swamy at Baradanapura Mahanteshwar Mutt yesterday. A mass marriage was also organised as part of the event.  “Mutts have encouraged literacy, health and education and have immensely contributed in the respective fields. The contributions of Mahanteshwar Mutt and Sri Mahantha Swamy are notable in this direction and the Seer followed Basavanna’s philosophy to the core,” he said.

Recalling the contribution of various mutts including Devanoor Mutt, Suttur Mutt, Siddaganga Mutt and Adichunchanagiri Mutt, the MLA lauded their efforts in providing education, food and eradicating social evils.

Dr. Sharathchandra Swamiji of Kundur Mutt, Mahantha Swamiji  of Devanoor Mutt, Parashivamurthy Swamiji of Mahanteshwar Mutt, Siddamalla Swamiji of Neelakanta Mutt, Srikanta Swamiji of Mudugunda Mutt, Mummadi Nirmana Swamiji of Kanakapura Degula Mutt and others were present.