Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday addressed the 550th-year celebration of the Shree Samsthan Gokarn Partagali Jeevottam Math in Goa, describing the occasion as a moment of deep spiritual peace. Speaking at the ceremony, the Prime Minister said that being in the presence of saints itself is a spiritual experience and added that the large number of devotees reflected the centuries-old strength of the Math.
The Prime Minister said he felt fortunate to be present on the historic milestone and informed that he had earlier visited the Ram Mandir and Veer Vitthal Mandir, noting that the atmosphere there further enriched the spiritual sentiment of the programme.
PM Modi said the Math has remained a guiding centre for society for 550 years despite major changes in eras, politics and social conditions. He stated that the institution has upheld its core values while adapting to the needs of time and has continuously linked spirituality with service and public welfare.
Marking the occasion, the Prime Minister unveiled a 77-feet bronze statue of Lord Shri Ram and inaugurated a Ramayana-themed park. He said these new additions, including a heritage museum and a modern 3D theatre, will inspire future generations and connect the youth with the Math’s legacy. He also recalled the 550-day Shri Ram Naam Jap Yajna and Ram Rath Yatra, describing them as symbols of collective discipline and devotion.
Commemorative coins and postage stamps were also released on the occasion.
PM Modi paid tribute to the Guru tradition of the Math and recalled that it was established in 1475 by Shrimad Narayan Tirth Swamiji, who was part of the Dvaita Vedanta lineage of Jagadguru Shri Madhvacharya. He noted the historic linkage between Partagali and Udupi and said the Math’s contribution to preserving values of discipline, knowledge and service continues to shape future generations.
The Prime Minister highlighted the Math’s longstanding role in public welfare, noting that it has supported communities in times of crisis and continues to contribute to education, hostels, elderly care and relief efforts.
Referring to Goa’s cultural resilience, PM Modi said that despite historical challenges, the state preserved its identity while simultaneously renewing itself with time. He said India is witnessing a cultural renaissance with initiatives such as the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, Kashi Vishwanath Dham redevelopment, the Mahakal Mahalok expansion, and the Ramayana and Krishna Circuits.
PM Modi then placed nine resolutions before devotees to be carried forward through the institution: conserving water, planting trees, cleanliness, adopting Swadeshi, exploring different parts of India, natural farming, healthy lifestyle including millets, adopting yoga and sports, and supporting the poor. He expressed confidence that the Math can turn these pledges into collective social commitments.
The Prime Minister also noted Goa’s progress in tourism, pharma, education, and health and said that improved connectivity through highways, airports and rail infrastructure is strengthening both tourism and pilgrimage in the state. He underlined that tourism will play an important role in India’s growth vision for 2047.
Stating that India is going through a decisive period marked by youth strength, self-confidence and a deeper cultural connect, PM Modi asserted that the goal of a developed India can be realised when spirituality, national service and development advance together.
He extended his greetings to Mathadhipati Shrimad Vidyadhish Tirth Swamiji, the organising committee and devotees on the landmark occasion.