President Murmu Inaugurates Mahasamadhi Centenary of Sree Narayana Guru at Sivagiri Mutt

President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated the observance of the Mahasamadhi Centenary of Sree Narayana Guru at Sivagiri Mutt, Varkala, Kerala, on October 23, 2025. The event marked the beginning of a year-long series of spiritual, cultural, and social programs dedicated to the life and teachings of one of India's greatest social reformers and spiritual philosophers. The ceremony was attended by religious leaders, community representatives, scholars, and devotees from across India, underscoring the enduring influence of Sree Narayana Guru's message of equality and human unity.

Honouring a Visionary Saint and Reformer

In her address, President Murmu described Sree Narayana Guru as a beacon of social transformation and a guiding light for modern India. She called him "a saint, philosopher, and reformer who redefined spirituality by combining wisdom with compassion and action." His life, she said, exemplified the power of spiritual awakening to bring about social change.

Born in 1856 in Chempazhanthy, near Thiruvananthapuram, Sree Narayana Guru rose from humble origins to become a pioneering force against caste discrimination and social injustice. Through his philosophy and institutions, he challenged rigid social hierarchies and advocated for equality, education, and moral upliftment of marginalized communities.

The Message of "One Caste, One Religion, One God for Mankind"

President Murmu highlighted Sree Narayana Guru's timeless message of "Oru Jathi, Oru Matham, Oru Daivam Manushyanu" (One Caste, One Religion, One God for Mankind). She noted that these words were not merely philosophical expressions but revolutionary ideals that continue to shape India's social and moral fabric. "Guru's vision transcended the limits of caste, creed, and religion," she said. "He saw divinity in all beings and taught that true liberation is achieved through knowledge, compassion, and self-realization."

The President further observed that Sree Narayana Guru's movement inspired countless reformers and intellectuals across India, including Mahatma Gandhi, who visited him at Sivagiri in 1925. Gandhi later described the Guru as a "great saint" whose teachings reflected the essence of universal brotherhood.

Centers of Learning and Empowerment

President Murmu praised the social and educational institutions founded by Sree Narayana Guru, which became catalysts for enlightenment and empowerment. Temples, schools, and community centers established under his guidance not only promoted spiritual values but also served as hubs of literacy and self-reliance among the oppressed.

She noted that Guru's establishment of the Aruvippuram Temple in 1888 was a historic act of defiance against caste orthodoxy. It symbolized the democratization of spiritual practice — affirming that temples and divine worship belonged to all, irrespective of social status. The President also acknowledged the role of the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam in carrying forward his reformist mission.

Philosophy Rooted in Simplicity and Humanity

The President reflected on the Guru's deep spiritual writings in Malayalam, Sanskrit, and Tamil, which combine profound philosophical insight with simplicity and universal appeal. His works such as Atmopadesa Śatakam and Daiva Dasakam continue to inspire readers to seek inner purification and moral strength.

President Murmu emphasized that Sree Narayana Guru's vision of education was holistic — blending intellectual pursuit with ethical conduct and compassion. "He believed that education without moral values is incomplete. His teachings remind us that progress must always be accompanied by humility and empathy," she said.

Relevance of His Teachings in the Modern World

In her concluding remarks, President Murmu said that Sree Narayana Guru's philosophy holds even greater significance in today's world, marked by social divisions and global unrest. His message of unity, equality, and mutual respect, she said, provides a universal solution to the conflicts of modern civilization.

"Guru's vision calls us to recognize the divine essence within every human being," she noted. "In an age of technological progress and material advancement, his call for self-purification, compassion, and simplicity is more relevant than ever."

The centenary observance at Sivagiri Mutt will include a range of programs — from interfaith dialogues and literary seminars to cultural festivals and social welfare initiatives — aimed at spreading the Guru's message of peace, tolerance, and human unity.

President Murmu concluded her address with a heartfelt tribute: "Sree Narayana Guru's light continues to guide us toward a more inclusive, compassionate, and harmonious India. His teachings remind us that the essence of spirituality lies not in ritual, but in service, love, and equality."