Udupi: In a thought-provoking lecture at the Rajangana, scholar K.P. Puthuraya emphasized that a nation is more than its geographical boundaries or its towering skyscrapers and luxury hotels. The true wealth of a nation lies in its culture and traditions, he stated.

Delivering a talk on ‘Indian Culture and Bhagavad Gita’ as part of the Bruhat Geetotsava organized by the Paryaya Shri Puttige Matha on Tuesday, he underscored the resilience of Indian culture despite numerous external assaults. “Destroying a nation doesn’t require warfare; undermining its culture suffices. Yet, our culture, though under constant attack, has remained steadfast,” he noted.

Puthuraya highlighted that individuals have three dimensions of life: the physical, mental, and spiritual. Similarly, nations also have three dimensions: geography as the physical body, ideals and principles as the mind, and culture and beliefs as the soul.

Commenting on the Bhagavad Gita’s relevance, he said the ancient text holds solutions to modern challenges. He praised the efforts of the Paryaya Sri Puthige Matha and its head, Sri Sugunendra Thirtha Swamiji, for spreading Indian spiritual and cultural values globally. He observed that spiritual practices should not be confined to the nation but should reach Indians living abroad.

The event was graced by Sri Puthige Matha Junior Yati Sri Sushreendra Thirtha Swamiji.

Sri Sugunendra Thirtha Swamiji urged individuals to embody the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, emphasizing that excellence requires immersion in one’s work, regardless of its scale.

Krishna Anugraha Awards Presented

During the event, the services of several individuals were recognized. Guruprasad from Kumbakonam, known for managing a large-scale cow shelter, and Vedic scholar K.S. Gopalakrishna Bhat from Coimbatore were honored with the Sri Krishna Geetotsava Anugraha Awards by Sri Sugunendra Thirtha and Junior Yati Sri Sushreendra Thirtha Swamijis.