NEW DELHI: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan inaugurated the Amrit Mahotsava celebrations marking the 75th birth anniversary of Pujya Dr. Basavalinga Pattadevaru Mahaswamiji of Hiremath Samsthan at Sri Channabasavashram in Bhalki, Bidar district of Karnataka.

Addressing the gathering, the Vice President expressed happiness at being present in the spiritually rich region of Bidar, a historic centre of learning, reform, and spiritual thought. Referring to the legacy of Basavanna, he highlighted his pioneering efforts in promoting equality and opposing social discrimination. He noted that the ideals of the Anubhava Mantapa, regarded as the world’s first spiritual forum, continue to inspire generations.

Highlighting the contributions of Pujya Dr. Basavalinga Pattadevaru Mahaswamiji, the Vice President described him as a true embodiment of compassion and service. He commended his efforts in providing shelter, education, and dignity to more than 500 orphaned and abandoned children, and in building a vast educational network of over 60 institutions serving more than 20,000 students.

Referring to the vision of “Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi” articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Vice President emphasized that India’s development must go hand in hand with its rich cultural and spiritual heritage. He observed that India today is emerging as technologically advanced, economically strong, and globally influential, while remaining deeply rooted in its civilizational ethos. 

The Vice-President noted that the renewed emphasis on heritage conservation, traditional practices, yoga, and cultural legacy has fostered a sense of pride and strengthened civilizational confidence among citizens. He added that such efforts are not merely about preserving structures, but about restoring self-confidence and reconnecting people with India’s timeless values and traditions.

The Vice President also underlined the importance of women’s empowerment, stating that “Nari Shakti” is central to nation-building. He observed that women bring empathy and compassion to leadership roles and noted that when women rise, families prosper, communities grow stronger, and nations progress.

On the occasion, the Vice President called upon people to draw inspiration from the life and teachings of Pujya Swamiji and the philosophy of Basavanna, and to work towards building a society rooted in equality, compassion, and dharma.

Referring to comments made by the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha,  Mallikarjun Kharge, the Vice President remarked that there should be clarity of black and white, and one should be able to differentiate between terrorists and terror for terrorists.