Jagadgurus discuss cow protection and religious consciousness

Metro India News | VARANASI

Three Jagadgurus, along with several other prominent Hindu saints, met Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Shri Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati Maharaj, the head of the Jyotish Peeth, who is currently residing in Kashi (Varanasi). The spiritual leaders paid their respects to the Shankaracharya, held discussions on various spiritual and religious matters, and sought his guidance. The delegation included Jagadguru Ramanujacharya Shri Shri 1008 Swami Yogeshwaracharya Maharaj, head of Atuleshwar Dham in Indraprastha; Jagadguru Ramanujacharya Shri Shri 1008 Swami Avadheshanand Maharaj, head of Om Shanti Dham in New Delhi; and Jagadguru Ramanujacharya Shri Shri 1008 Swami Sarangdharacharya, head of Sarang Temple in Prayagraj.

The saints said that his efforts had helped awaken religious consciousness among followers of Sanatan Dharma and described his commitment as worthy of reverence.  Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati said that he had assumed the responsibilities of a Shankaracharya not to enhance the prestige of the position but to protect Dharma. He questioned the purpose of holding such a spiritual office if the killing of cows and the decline of religious values continued while he remained silent.

Emphasizing the importance of cows in Hindu religious and cultural life, the Shankaracharya observed that deities and spiritual gurus hold a significant place in people's lives, yet the first roti prepared in many Hindu households is traditionally set aside for the cow. He said this practice reflects the deep reverence accorded to Gau Mata in Sanatan Dharma. Jagadguru Ramanujacharya Swami Yogeshwaracharya Maharaj, one of the spiritual leaders present at the meeting, called for the cow to be declared Rashtra Mata, or Mother of the Nation. The information was provided by Sanjay Pandey, media in-charge of Jagadguru Shankaracharya Shri Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati.