Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi addressed the 550th-year celebration of the Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math in Goa today. Prime Minister remarked that on this sacred occasion his mind is filled with deep peace. He highlighted that sitting in the presence of saints is in itself a spiritual experience. Noting that the large number of devotees present here is further enhancing the centuries-old living strength of this Math, Shri Modi stated that he considers himself fortunate to be present among the people in this ceremony today. He mentioned that before coming here, he had the privilege of visiting the Ram Mandir and Veer Vitthal Mandir. He remarked that the peace and atmosphere there have deepened the spirituality of this ceremony.

“Shri Sansthan Gokarna Partagali Jeevottam Math is celebrating its 550th anniversary, a very historic occasion. In the past 550 years the institution has faced many upheavals, with changing eras, changing times, and numerous transformations in the country and society, yet the Math never lost its direction. Instead, the Math emerged as a guiding center for people, and its greatest identity is that while rooted in history, it has continued to move with the times”, remarked Shri Modi. He noted that the spirit with which the Math was established remains equally vibrant today, a spirit that connects sadhana with service and tradition with public welfare. The Prime Minister remarked that generation after generation, the Math has conveyed the understanding that the true purpose of spirituality is to provide stability, balance, and values to life. He emphasized that the 550-year journey of the Math is proof of the strength that sustains society even in difficult times. He extended his greetings on this historic occasion to the Mathadhipati Shrimad Vidyadhish Tirth Swamiji, all members of the committee, and every individual associated with the celebration.

Prime Minister Shri Modi remarked that when an institution stands on the foundation of truth and service, it does not waver with the changes of time but instead gives society the strength to endure. He highlighted that today, continuing this tradition, the Math is writing a new chapter. He noted that a grand 77-feet tall bronze statue of Lord Shri Ram has been installed here. He mentioned that just three days ago he had the privilege of hoisting the Dharma Dhwaja atop the magnificent Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mandir in Ayodhya, and today he has the good fortune of unveiling the grand statue of Lord Shri Ram here. He further remarked that on this occasion a theme park based on the Ramayana has also been inaugurated.

Emphasising that the new dimensions associated with this Math are going to become permanent centers of knowledge, inspiration, and spiritual practice for future generations, the Prime Minister highlighted that the museum being developed here and the 3D theatre equipped with modern technology are preserving the tradition of the Math while connecting the new generation with its heritage. He noted that similarly, the Shri Ram Naam Jap Yajna and the Ram Rath Yatra, conducted over 550 days with the participation of millions of devotees across the country, have become symbols of collective energy of devotion and discipline in society. He emphasized that this collective energy is today spreading a new consciousness in every corner of the nation.

Prime Minister stated that the arrangements connecting spirituality with modern technology will continue to inspire future generations. He congratulated everyone for this construction. He highlighted that in this grand celebration, commemorative coins and postage stamps have also been released as symbols of this special occasion, dedicated to the spiritual power that has united society for centuries. 

Highlighting that the continuous flow of strength to this Math has come from the great Guru tradition which established the divine foundation of Dvaita Vedanta, Shri Modi recalled that this Math, established in 1475 by Shrimad Narayan Tirth Swamiji, is an extension of that knowledge tradition whose original source is the unique Acharya, Jagadguru Shri Madhvacharya. He bowed in reverence to these Acharyas. He emphasized that it is also very significant that Udupi and Partagali are living streams of the same spiritual river, and that the Guru-shakti guiding the cultural flow of India’s western coast is the same. He remarked that for him it is a special coincidence to have had the privilege of participating in two programmes connected with this tradition on the same day.

Underlining it is a matter of pride that families associated with this tradition have, generation after generation, made discipline, knowledge, hard work, and excellence the foundation of their lives, Shri Modi highlighted that from trade to finance, and from education to technology, the talent, leadership, and dedication visible in them bears the deep imprint of this life vision. He noted that there are many inspiring stories of success among families and individuals connected with this tradition, and the roots of all these successes lie in humility, values, and service. Emphasizing that this Math has been the cornerstone in preserving these values, the Prime Minister expressed confidence that it will continue to energize future generations.

Highlighting another important feature of the historic Math - the spirit of service which has supported every section of society for centuries, Shri Modi recalled that centuries ago, when adverse circumstances struck this region and people had to leave their homes and seek refuge in new places, it was this Math that gave the community support, organized them, and established temples, monasteries, and shelters in new locations. Shri Modi stated that the Math protected not only religion but also humanity and culture, and over time its stream of service expanded further. He highlighted that today, from education to hostels, from elderly care to assistance for needy families, the Math has always dedicated its resources to public welfare. He noted that whether it is hostels built in different states, modern schools, or relief work during difficult times, every initiative is proof that when spirituality and service walk together, society gains both stability and inspiration to move forward.

Prime Minister remarked that there were times when temples and local traditions in Goa faced crises, and when language and cultural identity came under pressure, yet these circumstances did not weaken the soul of society but made it stronger. He highlighted that the unique feature of Goa is that its culture has preserved its original essence through every change and has also rejuvenated itself with time, with institutions like the Partagali Math playing a major role in this. 

“Today India is witnessing a remarkable cultural renaissance, with the restoration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the grand redevelopment of Kashi Vishwanath Dham, and the expansion of Mahakal Mahalok in Ujjain, all reflecting the nation’s awareness that is reviving its spiritual heritage with new strength”, exclaimed Shri Modi. He noted that initiatives such as the Ramayana Circuit, Krishna Circuit, development works at Gaya Ji, and the unprecedented management of the Kumbh Mela are examples that show how today’s India is advancing its cultural identity with new resolve and confidence. He emphasized that this awakening inspires future generations to remain connected to their roots.

Underscoring that the sacred land of Goa has its own distinct spiritual identity, with a continuous flow of devotion, saintly tradition, and cultural practice for centuries, Shri Modi said that this land, along with its natural beauty, also carries the identity of ‘Dakshin Kashi,’ which has been further deepened by the Partagali Math. He stated that the Math’s connection is not limited to Konkan and Goa, but its tradition is linked to various parts of the country and also to the holy land of Varanasi. He noted with pride, as the Member of Parliament from Varanasi, that Acharya Shri Narayan Tirth, the founder, established a center in Varanasi during his travels in North India, thereby extending the spiritual stream of the Math from South to North. He remarked that even today the center established in Varanasi continues to serve society. 

Emphasizing that as this sacred Math completes 550 years, Shri Modi said, we are not only celebrating history but also determining the direction of the future. He stated that the path to a developed India goes through unity, and when society comes together, when every region and every section stands united, the nation makes great leaps. PM underlined that the primary mission of Shri Sansthan Gokarna Partagali Jeevottam Math is to connect people, connect minds, and build a bridge between tradition and modernity, and therefore in the journey of a developed India, this Math plays the role of a major inspiration center.

Shri Modi remarked that wherever he has affection, he respectfully makes certain requests. He stated that as he has come among the people today, some thoughts naturally arise in his mind which he wishes to share. He highlighted that he wants to place nine appeals before them which, through their institution, can be conveyed to every citizen. He emphasized that these appeals are like nine resolutions. Shri Modi noted that the dream of a developed India will be fulfilled only when we consider the protection of the environment as our duty, as the earth is our mother and the teachings of the Math guide us to respect nature. He remarked that therefore the first resolution should be to conserve water, save water, and protect rivers. He stated that the second resolution should be to plant trees, highlighting that the nationwide campaign of “Ek Ped Maa ke Naam” is gaining momentum, and if the strength of this institution joins it, the impact will be even wider. He emphasized that the third resolution should be the mission of cleanliness, ensuring that every street, neighborhood, and city remains clean. Underlining that the fourth resolution should be to adopt Swadeshi, the Prime Minister noted that today India is moving forward with the mantra of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Swadeshi, and the country is saying “Vocal for Local,” a resolve that we too must carry forward.

Speaking about the fifth resolution, Shri Modi said it should be ‘Desh Darshan’, encouraging everyone to make efforts to know and understand different parts of the country. He highlighted that the sixth resolution should be to make natural farming a part of life. He stated that the seventh resolution should be to adopt a healthy lifestyle, to embrace ‘Shri Anna’–Millets and reduce oil consumption in food by 10 percent. He emphasized that the eighth resolution should be to adopt yoga and sports, and the ninth resolution should be to assist the poor in some form. 

Prime Minister noted that the Math can transform these resolutions into collective public commitments. He remarked that the 550 years of experience of this Math teaches us that tradition keeps society moving forward only when it expands its responsibilities with time, and the energy the Math has given society over centuries must now be directed towards building the India of the future. 

Highlighting that the spiritual glory of Goa is as distinctive as its modern development, the Prime Minister stated that Goa is among the states with the highest per capita income and contributes significantly to tourism, pharma, and the service sector. He noted that in recent years Goa has achieved new milestones in education and health, and that the central and state governments together are modernizing its infrastructure. He remarked that the expansion of highways, airports, and rail connectivity has made travel easier for both devotees and tourists. He emphasized that in the national vision of a developed India by 2047, tourism is a major component, and Goa stands as the finest example of this.

“India is passing through a decisive phase, where the strength of the youth, the nation’s growing self-confidence, and its inclination towards cultural roots are together shaping a new India”, emphasised the Prime Minister. He highlighted that the resolve of a developed India will be fulfilled only when spirituality, national service, and development move forward together. Concluding his address, Shri Modi stated that the sacred land of Goa and this Math are making an important contribution in this direction. He extended his heartfelt greetings once again to everyone on this sacred occasion.

Governor of Goa, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Pramod Sawant, Union Minister Shri Shripad Naik were present among other dignitaries at the event.

Background

On the occasion of ‘Sardha Panchashatamanotsava’, the 550th-year celebration of the Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math,  Prime Minister visited Math at Canacona, South Goa.

Prime Minister unveiled a 77 feet statue of Prabhu Shri Ram, made up of bronze at Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math and will also inaugurate ‘Ramayana Theme Park Garden’ developed by the Math.  Prime Minister also released the special postal stamp and a commemorative coin.

Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math is the first Gowd Saraswat Brahmin Vaishnava Math. It follows the Dvaita order, a system established by Jagadguru Madhvacharya in the 13th century AD. The Math is headquartered in Partagali, a small town in South Goa, on the banks of the river Kushavati.

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MJPS/SR