Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has urged the Union government to confer the prestigious Bharat Ratna posthumously on the revered Siddaganga Mutt seer, Shivakumara Swami. 

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Shivakumar expressed his appreciation for the Bharat Ratna bestowed upon L K Advani but underscored the importance of recognizing the remarkable legacy of Shivakumara Swami. The Deputy Chief Minister, also serving as the Karnataka Congress state president, revealed that the state government had previously appealed to the Centre to confer the Bharat Ratna on the late seer. However, he emphasized that the ultimate decision rests with the Union government.

Source: DH

During his interaction with reporters after offering prayers at the Basavanna temple in Basavana Bagewadi, Shivakumar highlighted the seer’s significant impact on society. Known as the “Walking God,” Shivakumara Swami earned profound respect from the dominant Lingayat community in Karnataka due to his extensive charitable works.

Shivakumara Swami’s contributions to humanity, particularly through the initiation of “Anna Dasoha,” where free communal meals were provided, have left an indelible mark. The seer’s selfless service, spanning various social and educational initiatives, has made a lasting impact on the lives of many. His philosophy centered around the upliftment of the underprivileged, promoting education, and fostering communal harmony.

Source: The Federal News

The spiritual leader, who passed away at the age of 111 in January 2019 in Tumakuru, left behind a legacy that continues to resonate. The Siddaganga Mutt, where his Math was located, served as a center for spiritual learning and humanitarian activities. The seer’s teachings and actions transcended religious and social boundaries, earning him admiration from people across diverse backgrounds. Despite the state government’s earlier pleas to honor Shivakumara Swami with the Bharat Ratna, the decision remains pending at the Union government level.