Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat at Sri Ramakrishna Ashram centenary

Mysore/Mysuru: Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that while the world is witnessing rapid technological advancement, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) becoming the new mantra, it is crucial to uphold ethics in the use and adaptation of emerging technologies.

He was speaking as the Chief Guest at the ‘Samarpana Samavesha’ — a symbolic offering of 100 years of service to Bhagavan Sri Ramakrishna — on the concluding day of the four-day centenary celebrations of Sri Ramakrishna Ashram at the Vivekananda Auditorium in Yadavagiri this morning.

Spiritual heritage centre of Karnataka

“Mysuru Ramakrishna Ashram has been shaping future generations by blending spiritual values with education. The Ashram has played a remarkable role in building leadership qualities in students from their teenage years,” Shekhawat said

Beyond advocating spirituality, morality and ethics for a life rooted in purpose, service and selflessness, the Ashram has supported thousands of students with scholarships and other facilities over its 100 years of dedicated service. It is apt to call the Ashram a Spiritual Heritage Centre of Karnataka,” he noted.

Reiterating that the Ashram acts as a bridge to spiritualism, the Minister stressed that technology without ethics is dangerous for society. He wished the Ashram, known for its tireless service, continued growth and greater achievements in the years ahead. Guest of honour and former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said that Swami Vivekananda was an extraordinary personality who offered profound answers to complex questions on life and spirituality.

Noting that Swami Vivekananda had attained vast knowledge at a very young age, he said the Mysuru Ramakrishna Ashram follows Swamiji’s ideals by imparting value-based education through Sri Ramakrishna Vidyashala while nurturing spiritual insight among students. The Ashram, he added, has produced many top leaders and entrepreneurs of the country.

Sri Gautamanandaji, President of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, Belur Math, Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Swamiji of Suttur Mutt, Dr. Sri Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji of Adichunchanagiri Mutt, Mysuru Ramakrishna Ashram President Swami Muktidanandaji and several others were present.

Rebel CM or compromise CM?

Siddaramaiah must clarify whether he is a rebel Chief Minister or a compromise Chief Minister, with D.K. Shivakumar openly challenging his position. It is unfortunate that despite winning 136 seats, the Congress has neglected Karnataka’s development and has been squabbling over the CM’s chair from the very first day it came to power. The party high command takes decisions based on money, favouring whoever pays the highest amount.”

— Former Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai in Mysuru this morning