‘True dharma is not living by trampling others, but by living with understanding’
Mysuru: True dharma lies not in taking people to heaven but in making the earth they live on heavenly, said Sri Abhinava Gavisiddeshwara Mahaswamiji of Gavimutt, Koppal. He was speaking after inaugurating Mysuru Dasara atop Chamundi Hill yesterday.
“True dharma is not living by trampling others, but by living with understanding,” he said, calling for a society built on humanity, harmony, compassion and respect for labour.
Describing Dasara as a festival that brings together the past glory, present enthusiasm and future aspirations of Karnataka, the Swamiji said the celebrations had evolved from a royal festival into one belonging to the people.
Heritage’s enduring symbol
“Mysuru rightly deserves its reputation as the city of palaces, culture, wisdom and tradition,” he said, recalling how the festival had travelled from the Tungabhadra region to the banks of the Cauvery, becoming an enduring symbol of Karnataka’s cultural heritage.
The Swamiji said the grandeur of Dasara was made possible by the efforts of countless people working behind the scenes. Paying tribute to them, he stressed that the festival should celebrate not just pomp and pageantry but also the labour, culture and collective life of the people.
“I have not come here merely to inaugurate the festival. I have come to pray that the lamp of Kannada lit by our elders never goes out,” he said, adding that a monk could pray for rain, good crops and happiness among people but could not announce grants or policies.
Path of humanity
Highlighting the message of harmony in Kannada literature, from Adikavi Pampa to Kuvempu, he said differences in scriptures and religious traditions should not divide people.
“Scriptures may differ, sects may differ, but the path of humanity and truth must remain one,” he said.
Recalling the 12th-century Sharane Satyakka of Kalyana, who worked as a street sweeper, the Swamiji said her life exemplified honesty and dignity of labour. Despite finding valuables while cleaning the streets, she would return them to their owners and refuse money offered in gratitude.
Citing her example, he urged people to value work over wealth and earn their livelihood honestly, without cheating or exploiting others.
He also recalled the contributions of the Mysore Royal Family, saying Karnataka’s history could not be understood without acknowledging its role in promoting education, science and public welfare.
The establishment of Mysore University, support for the Indian Institute of Science, the introduction of hydroelectric power from Shivanasamudra and the construction of the Kannambadi Katte (KRS Dam) were among the lasting contributions he highlighted.
He recalled how Queen Kempananjammanni pawned her jewellery to ensure the Dam’s completion when funds ran short, describing it as an example of leadership that placed public welfare above personal interests.
The Swamiji also drew attention to the teachings of Buddha, particularly his final message, “Be a light up to yourself”, urging people to become a source of light for society. He said the wisdom found in folk traditions and the lives of ordinary people was as valuable as the literature and knowledge preserved in royal courts.
Dharma and its expressions
Referring to the teachings of Kannada poet Sarvajna, he said helping the thirsty and hungry, wiping the tears of the distressed and offering a kind word were simple yet meaningful expressions of dharma.
Recalling the compassion shown by Kittur Rani Chennamma towards the children of her enemies and the service rendered by Siddaganga Swamiji to thousands of children, he said Karnataka had a rich tradition of courage, generosity and humanity.
“Rain must come from the skies, crops must grow from the soil and joy must shine on people’s faces,” the Gavimutt Seer said, expressing hope for a society where love, honest labour and human values guide public life.
This post was published on October 12, 2026 7:30 pm