Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB/SP)
Udupi, Mar 14: "Purify yourself internally by sacrificing all your vices at the lotus feet of Lord Krishna. At the same time, make contributions towards creating a cleaner environment by going green and planting trees," advised Sri Vishweshateertha Swamiji of Pejavar Math here.
He was delivering the benedictory address after inaugurating the ambitious 'Vruksha Raksha - Vishwa Raksha (protect trees, protect universe) programme undertaken by Pejavar Math, at a function organized at Rajangan here on Sunday March 13 evening, where thousands of people had gathered.
"There has been mention of need to maintain and protect trees in ancient scriptures. In the current scenario, for this programme to be successful, role of three sections is of prime importance in sensitizing people towards environment conservation. They are, support from religious leaders, assistance from the government and cooperation from the general public," he stated.
Rather than looking at others to do this, he called upon the people to take upon themselves the task of growing trees and conserving nature.
Junior Swamiji of the Math, Sri Vishwaprasannateertha Swamiji, speaking on the occasion, alerted the people to the worsening global warming situation, water shortage and adverse environment changes which are caused because of reckless destruction of nature. He called upon people to protect the environment and grow trees around their residences.
On this occasion, the Swamiji felicitated environmentalists, Salumarada Timmakka and Ashok Chennapatna, for their contribution to environment conservation. Bannanje Swamiji, former MLA, Raghupati Bhat, local MLA, Pramod Madhwaraj, Dr Satyanarayana, deputy forest conservator, K C Manjunath and others were present.
Aravind Hebbar welcomed. Vasudeva Bhat presented the vote of thanks.