Dharmasthala, Karnataka – January 15, 2025: The Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, delivered a powerful and thought-provoking address at the inauguration of the Sanidhya Queue Complex and the Jnanadeepa Programme 2024-25 at Sri Kshethra Dharmasthala. He emphasized the need for equality, harmony, and a collective commitment to India’s development, while denouncing practices like VIP culture in religious institutions.
Key Highlights of the Vice President’s Speech
1. Eliminating VIP Culture in Religious Spaces
The Vice President strongly condemned the concept of VIP culture, particularly in places of worship, stating, “VIP culture is an aberration and should have no place in society, much less in religious institutions. The idea of VIP darshan contradicts the essence of divinity.” He urged religious centers to uphold equality, emphasizing that “before the Almighty, all are equal.”
2. Politics as a Tool for Service, Not Bitterness
Shri Dhankhar called on political leaders to prioritize service over power and to rise above divisiveness. He remarked, “Politics is not for bitterness. It should serve society and unite the nation. The political temperature must be moderated by rational minds, with national interest guiding every stance.”
3. Firm Stance Against Public Property Destruction
Addressing concerns about law and order, the Vice President condemned the destruction of public property and rogue behavior. He labeled such acts as “public nuisance” and called for swift and strict action against offenders, stating, “These nefarious elements must be held accountable. We cannot allow such behavior in a country like Bharat.”
4. Promoting Dialogue in Democracy
Highlighting the essence of democracy, Shri Dhankhar emphasized the need for a balance between dialogue and expression. “Dialogue and expression define democracy. Without dialogue, we risk losing the spirit of mutual respect and understanding,” he said. He also stressed the responsibility of parliamentarians to foster healthy discussions and address public concerns effectively.
5. Panch Pran as the Foundation of National Transformation
The Vice President outlined five guiding principles—Panch Pran—to accelerate India’s transformation:
Promoting social harmony that unites diversity.
Strengthening family values and patriotic upbringing.
Adopting environment-friendly lifestyles.
Supporting local products and embracing Swadeshi.
Upholding fundamental duties alongside fundamental rights.
6. Appeal to Corporates for CSR Contributions
Shri Dhankhar urged corporate entities to utilize their CSR funds to support health, education, and infrastructure development around religious institutions. He described such institutions as “nerve centers of our culture” that instill values in youth and promote national heritage.
7. Recognizing Dharmasthala’s Efforts
The Vice President commended Dharmasthala’s significant contributions to education, healthcare, and rural development. He lauded the Sanidhya Queue Complex as a “manifestation of inclusivity, hospitality, and service” and highlighted its importance in enhancing the visitor experience.
Dignitaries Present
Prominent attendees included Shri D. Veerendra Heggade, President of Sri Kshethra Dharmasthala Rural Development Project; Smt. Hemavathi V. Heggade, President of the Jnanavikasa Programme; Shri Brijesh Chowta, Member of Parliament; and other notable figures from the region.
The Vice President’s address inspired the audience, reinforcing the need for collective action, harmonious coexistence, and unwavering commitment to India’s progress as it approaches its centenary of independence in 2047.
