Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (JD)
Udupi, Nov 29: With Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Udupi making headlines across the region, another major topic of discussion has emerged — the absence of the donor of the Swarna Kavach at the inauguration of the Udupi Kanaka Mantap.
Former minister Pramod Madhwaraj had donated the Swarna Kavach for the Kanakadasa Mantap of Sri Krishna Math, which was inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi along with Paryaya Puttige seer. However, despite being a major donor to the mutt for generations and especially for the Kanaka Mantap, Pramod Madhwaraj’s absence during the inauguration of the golden kavach donated by him has sparked widespread discussion among the public in Udupi.
Many have expressed mixed opinions over the issue. Some have stated that Sri Krishna accepted the seva from Kanakadasa but did not allow him near, drawing a comparison. Others have supported Pramod’s move, calling it a selfless sacrifice to Lord Krishna by a devoted bhakt.
Social media is abuzz with criticism as well. The Kanakadasa Mantap was built by Pramod’s father, the late Malpe Madhwaraj.
Pramod Madhwaraj later visited the newly inaugurated Swarna Kavacha Kanakana Kindi on Saturday, November 29. Responding to the social media buzz, he said, “There was no schedule of Prime Minister Modi visiting Udupi planned when I renovated the Kanaka Mantap and dedicated the golden kavach to the Kanakana Kindi. But I am happy that the Lord has given enlightenment to Modi to visit it and inaugurate the golden Kanaka Kavacha. Due to various reasons, I did not get the chance to attend the programme yesterday, but I did not feel any disappointment. Who objected to my entry, or why my entry was denied, are minor matters. It is a great honour that Narendra Modi himself touched me, and my father’s contribution is the greatest thing. I am not dishonoured at all; rather, I am honoured. I have been doing all the work of the party for the past four years without any expectations. I have thanked the Paryaya Swamiji for giving me the opportunity. I was expecting to get a chance at Kanaka Gudi.”