The Vice President noted that the sanctity and spiritual eminence of the Sripuram Golden Temple are reflected in the visits of several distinguished national leaders over the years. He recalled that former Presidents of India Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam and Shri Ram Nath Kovind had visited the temple, and that President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu paid her respects there as recently as last month.
These visits, he said, underscore the national recognition of Sripuram as a centre of spiritual strength and inclusive service, drawing people from diverse backgrounds and beliefs.
Service to society as true devotion
Highlighting Sri Sakthi Amma’s commitment to dharma, the Vice President said her guidance extends far beyond spiritual discourse into meaningful and sustained social service. He lauded the wide range of charitable initiatives undertaken at Sripuram, describing them as exemplary expressions of devotion in action.
These initiatives include scholarships for students pursuing higher education, the provision of drinking water in water-scarce regions, and long-standing programmes such as the distribution of bicycles to students. He also highlighted the daily annadanam programme, under which food is served to thousands every day, calling it a powerful symbol of compassion and inclusivity.
Environmental protection as divine service
The Vice President drew special attention to the environmental initiatives undertaken at Sripuram. He noted that more than 50,000 trees have been planted within the temple campus, while several lakh saplings have been planted on the nearby Kailasagiri hills.
Describing this as a monumental contribution to Mother Earth, Shri Radhakrishnan said protecting the environment is itself a form of divine service. He added that such efforts strongly reinforce the environmental conservation vision promoted by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, linking spirituality with ecological responsibility.
Love and compassion at the core of spirituality
Emphasising the philosophical foundations of spiritual life, the Vice President quoted renowned poet Subramania Bharati, who said, “There is no greater penance than love.” He observed that loving and serving society constitute the highest form of spiritual discipline.
Shri Radhakrishnan described Sri Sakthi Amma as a great spiritual luminary of the present age, who exemplifies the principle that “Love is Divine.” Through her life and actions, he said, she has nurtured righteousness, compassion, and spiritual consciousness across society.
Prayers for peace and prosperity
Earlier in the day, the Vice President performed darshan at the Sri Narayani Temple at Sripuram. He offered prayers to Goddess Lakshmi, seeking peace, prosperity, and happiness for all citizens.
The Golden Jubilee celebrations, marking five decades of Sri Sakthi Amma’s spiritual journey, brought together devotees from across the country, reaffirming the enduring relevance of spirituality rooted in service, compassion, and environmental stewardship.