Bengaluru, Jan 21: The Archbishop of Bengaluru Rev Peter Machado has grieved the demise of Shivakumar Swamiji.

In a letter to the Siddaganga Mutt, the bishop wrote that the chief pontiff of Mutt was an extraordinary spiritual leader, humanitarian and educationist.

“In his untimely death, we have lost a saint who walked the face of the earth with a heart of love for the poor and the marginalized. His contribution to the society and the mankind has lost count. A seer with a divine touch transcended all barriers in reaching out to lakhs of children belonging to the economically weaker sections of the society, without prejudice and discrimination based on the lines of caste, creed, colour, region and religion,” wrote Machado.

The bishop added in his letter that the Christian community of Bengaluru joins him in expressing heartfelt and deep condolence. The bishop prayed strength and fortitude from God to overcome the irreparable loss, while wishing the swamiji's soul to rest in peace.

Udupi Bishop Dr Gerald Lobo condoles death of Dr Shivakumar Swamiji

“We are saddened by the passing away of Dr Shivakumar Siddaganga Swamiji who gave a new definition to religion. He brought light to one in darkness, provided food to the hungry, water to the thirsty and helped the one who is in distress is religion. He was loved by his disciples and respected as the walking God. May his soul be one with the almighty,” stated bishop of Udupi Dr Gerald Lobo in his condolence message.

“Shree shouldered the responsibility of the math for the last ninety years and worked tirelessly for the progress of society disregarding the barriers of religion. He was hugely concerned about the progress of the country and the society and was determined for the development of future generations. He had provided shelter and food to thousands of students in his math without differences of religion. We pray that the work started by the Swamiji may continue without obstacles and pray for eternal peace for his soul,” the bishop stated in his message.

Pejavar swamiji, Dr Veerendra Heggade express condolences

“Kannadigas are very sad due to the departure of Siddaganga Swamiji. Kannadigas had immense regards on Swamiji. Everybody wanted him still alive. His contribution to education sector is amazing," said Pejawar Vishweshatheertha Swamiji in a statement.

"His service is a model to all the seers. He has provided education to lacs of children. He had dedicated his life to work. His life of 111 years is a miracle. I had a close rapport of several years with Siddaganga Swamji. I was surprised in the beginning listening to his achievement. I had personally gone to visit him. He had come to Udupi during my second paryaya. He had participated in Vishwa Hindu Parishad conference. It was the first time that a Lingayat seer visited Krishna math. He had special love and regards towards me,” the Pejawar seer wrote.

“The demise of Siddaganga Shree has made the entire world sad. His long life is a mystery for medical field. Shree will remain in the minds of people as a person of immense strength. He was a seer that provided education, food and shelter. He was close to all and wanted by all. The society has lost an invaluable asset. The educational institutes started by him have provided huge contribution to the society. His departure is a huge loss for the society. May almighty God give enough strength to his disciples to bear his absence,” he stated.

Dr Veerendra Heggade is a statement stated that Shivakumar Swamiji of Siddaganga math has completed his life successfully. “Our religious books have written the difference between body and soul. Indians believe that our bodies should be used for the betterment of society. Swamiji has shown in his life, how to live a life of success. He lived a life of selflessness since his childhood, together with prayers and dedication. Though he was a religious person, he was a patriot. He believed that we should get rid of poverty for the development of the country and there should be opportunities for education,” he said.

“Lacs of people obtained education in Siddaganga math and saw changes in their lives. He ignored differences due to religion in society and provided equal opportunities to all. He provided guidance for jobs and self-employment. Hundreds of educational institutes were opened due to his inspiration. There was educational revolution in villages. He has provided guidance to the government. Elders came rushing to receive his blessings when Karnataka governments were formed during the last 72 years. There is his inspiration and guidance in several government schemes. He had visited Dharmasthala several times and there is no doubt that his soul has reached heaven,” wrote Dr Heggade.