PM Modi Declares New India's Resolve in Protecting Citizens While Honoring Dharmic Traditions in Udupi

PM Modi received a traditional welcome with full honors upon entering the Krishna Math premises.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared on Friday that while previous administrations might have been reluctant to respond to terrorist attacks, today's India neither submits nor wavers in defending its citizens.

The Prime Minister emphasized that national security fundamentally requires embracing inclusivity while standing firm in protecting Dharma.

"Earlier governments remained inactive following terrorist incidents, but the new India neither bows down nor hesitates to safeguard its people," the Prime Minister stated while addressing gatherings in the temple town of Udupi.

He visited to participate in the "Laksha Kantha Gita Parayana," an event where one hundred thousand individuals recited the Srimad Bhagwad Gita, organized by Sri Krishna Math in Udupi.

"The Gita instructs us to pursue peace and truth while also recognizing the necessity to defeat those who perpetrate atrocities. We embrace Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (viewing Earth as one family) and also affirm 'Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitaha' (Dharma protects those who protect Dharma)." Referring to the Pahalgam terrorist attack in April that claimed 26 lives, predominantly tourists, Modi noted that Karnataka residents were among those killed.

He stated that the nation witnessed the government's determination during Operation Sindoor, India's military response to the horrific incident involving precision strikes against terrorist launchpads in Pakistan.

"We deliver Krishna's message of compassion from the Red Fort while also launching Mission Sudarshan Chakra," he explained.

He elaborated that Mission Sudarshan Chakra establishes a security perimeter around key locations, industrial facilities, and public spaces.

Praising Udupi, he remarked that the town introduced an innovative governance model fifty years ago that presently informs national policies on sanitation and water distribution.

Commending Swami Vishwesha Teertha of Pejavara Math in Udupi, he acknowledged the nation's awareness of his significant contribution to the Ram Janma Bhoomi movement.

The swami's guidance to the temple movement culminated in the flag-raising ceremony at Ayodhya's Ram temple recently, Modi noted.

Modi informed the audience that Ayodhya's Ram temple holds special significance for Udupi because a distinctive arch gate has been constructed dedicated to Sri Madhwacharya, founder of the Madhwa sect of Dwaita (dualism) philosophy.

Discussing the relevance of Bhagwad Geeta in civic life, Modi stated its teachings have remained pertinent throughout every era as they continue providing direction for national policy formulation.

"In the Gita, Lord Sri Krishna directs us to work for societal welfare. Mottos like 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas' and 'Sarvajan Hitaya' derive inspiration from Geeta verses. It instructs us to assist the underprivileged, which helped establish foundations for initiatives like Ayushman and PM Awaas Yojana," Modi explained.

The Prime Minister added that lessons on women's safety and empowerment from Bhagwad Gita guided the central government in formulating the "Naari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam" (Women's Reservation Act).

Earlier, Modi visited the historic Kanaka Mantap and offered floral tributes to Kirthanakar Kanakadasa, the revered 14th-15th century saint-philosopher.

Kanakadasa is recognized for the legendary episode where Lord Krishna's idol turned westward at the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple.

Subsequently, the Prime Minister participated in the "Laksha Gita Pathana" accompanied by Paryaya Puthige Math seer Sugunendra Thirtha, Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot, and others. The PM recited the hymns.

Modi also offered prayers at the Sri Krishna Temple, where Sugunendra Thirtha, along with the Math's Diwan and senior temple officials, received him with traditional honors.

The PM spent time within the sanctum precincts, acknowledging Kanakadasa's devotion and the enduring cultural heritage associated with the temple.

He received a Poorna Kumbh swagatham (traditional welcome) upon entering the Krishna Math premises. He was presented with a silver-clad Tulasi Japa maala and Mudras containing Shankha, Chakra, Gada, and Padma, which Madhwas and most Brahmin communities in South India use for daily Pooja rituals.

Modi had previously visited the Krishna temple in 2008 as Gujarat's Chief Minister. The same Swamiji was serving as the Krishna Math's administrative head during that visit as well.

Upon arriving in the temple town, Modi conducted a grand road show. The PM landed at Mangaluru Airport and traveled to Udupi by helicopter.

Standing on his vehicle's running board, Modi waved to enthusiastic crowds who showered his convoy with flower petals. Modi reciprocated by tossing flowers back to people lining both sides of the road.

Saffron festoons and BJP flags adorned the entire route.

Various cultural troupes showcasing coastal Karnataka's vibrant traditions further enhanced the celebratory atmosphere.