Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (DV)
Mangaluru, Feb 23: South Canara District Central Co-operative Bank (SCDCC) Ltd Chairman Dr M N Rajendra Kumar in collaboration with SDCC Bank and Navodhaya Self-Help Group (SHG) donated Rs 1,01,11,072 for the construction of Ram Mandir at Ayodhya during the Guruvandana programme to Vishwaprasana Theertha of Pejawar Math, Nidhi Samarpan, and his 72 birth anniversary programme here at TV Raman Pai Hall on Wednesday, February 24.
After receiving Guruvandana, Pejawar Swamiji said, "The Ram Mandir at Ayodhya is a symbol of Indian culture. Lord Ram is ideal for everyone. We should live like Ram but not like Ravan. Ram is an example and showed how individuals should lead life. Each individual should follow the principles of Ram.”
He also blessed Dr Rajendra to serve the co-operative sector for a few more decades.
On the occasion, Dr Rajendra was honoured.
MP Nalin Kumar Kateel said, “There are several co-operative banks in the state and the country, but the co-operative sector of Dakshina Kannada district has set an example by coming forward to donate funds for the construction of Ram temple.”
Lauding Rajendra Kumar, Nalin said, “If we sincerely work towards a goal with dedication, you can achieve success in your life. Dr Rajendra has proved it. By contributing to the Ram temple, you have etched your name in the history in golden words.”
Questioning the politicians who criticised the fundraising activity for the temple, he said, "Will these people be ready to accept the principles of Ram? Rajendra Kumar has raised in stature from the people who criticized against the funding for Ram temple.”
MN Rajendra Kumar said, "In the cooperative sector, Dakshina Kannada's cooperative sector is the first to contribute to the construction of the temple. Society will come forward only when we live in the concept of 'live and let live'. This will unite the country. None should aspire bad for others."
He also said that instead of reacting to criticism, it is better to remain silent.
Minister Murugesh Nirani in his address lauded MN Rajendra Kumar for helping him avail a loan for his sugar factory 25 years ago. "Present-day the sugar factory is the first sugar factory in South India. Indirectly, Rajendra Kumar helped in employing 75,000 people."
MLA Vedavyas Kamath also spoke during the occasion. Dr Mohan Alva, Deviprasad Shetty Belapu, Aruna Rajendra Kumar, Megharaj Rajendra Kumar and others were present.