Mysore/Mysuru: Former Minister and BJP leader S. A. Ramdas has given a clarion call to send a strong message to society about the greatness of Sanatana Dharma, stating that there has been a growing number of people across the country speaking against it.

He was speaking at a programme organised to honour Srinivas Rao, Chief Administrator of Sri Uttaradhi Mutt, Bengaluru, at Tatvajnana Mandira in Krishnamurthypuram Sri Raghavendra Swamy Sannidhana (Mutt) in the city on Friday.

Stressing the need for nationwide discussions on Sanatana Dharma, Ramdas said it was a matter of pride that Uttaradhi Mutt’s Sri Satyatma Theertha Swamiji was bringing together people from all sections of society through religious discourses.

Describing Tatvajnana Mandira as an embodiment of Vedic knowledge, Ramdas said Srinivas Rao was the driving force behind it. “He has acted as a link between various mutts and has risen from being a common man to this formidable position by dedicating his life to the cause of Vedic knowledge,” he said.

Pandit Chaturvedi Vedavyasacharya said everyone should protect religion, as religion protects people in return. He stressed the need to remain open-minded, truthful and faithful, adding that truth guarantees success in life.

Deputy Director of Mysore Palace Board T.S. Subramanya said it was special that the Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mutt, established before Independence, continues to share cordial relations with the erstwhile Mysore royal family.

Sri Satyatma Theertha Swamiji, who is in the city to deliver discourses as part of Adhikamasa, also rendered Dasa Devaranamas on the occasion.

Pandit Anandatirthacharya Nagasampige, Pandit Vyasanakere Prabhanjanacharya, Krishnaraja Constituency MLA T. S. Srivatsa, former Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) Chairman H.V. Rajeev and others were present.