Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan paid a visit to Puri to offer his blessings to the Shankaracharya of Govardhan Peeth during the Jagannath Yatra procession. He states that the Shankaracharya's teachings are important for social life and expresses his delight at receiving his blessings. Meanwhile, preparations continue for the Rath Yatra, with President Murmu and other notable figures arriving in Puri to witness the grand event. Tragically, a devotee dies while pulling one of the chariots in Jharsuguda, bringing a somber mood to the festivities.
Shankaracharya of Govardhan Peeth Receives Blessings During Jagannath Yatra Procession
During the ongoing Jagannath Yatra procession, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan visited Puri to offer blessings to the Shankaracharya of Govardhan Peeth. The minister emphasized the significance of the Shankaracharya's teachings for social life and expressed his pleasure at receiving his blessings.
Background on the Shankaracharya of Govardhan Peeth
A Shankaracharya is a revered spiritual leader within the Hindu tradition, particularly in the Advaita Vedanta school of philosophy. The Shankaracharya of Govardhan Peeth is one of the four Shankaracharyas established by Adi Shankara in the 8th century CE. Govardhan Peeth is located in Puri, Odisha, and is dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
The current Shankaracharya of Govardhan Peeth, Swami Nischalananda Saraswati, is known for his spiritual teachings and social activism. He has established several educational institutions and charitable organizations.
Jagannath Yatra Procession
The Jagannath Yatra is an annual festival held in Puri, Odisha, to celebrate the journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra to the Gundicha temple. The procession involves three chariots, known as raths, each carrying one of the deities.
During the procession, devotees pull the chariots along the streets while chanting and singing devotional songs. This year, the Jagannath Yatra began on July 1, and the procession is set to culminate on July 12 with the return of the deities to the Jagannath temple.
Tragic Incident during Rath Yatra
Despite the festive atmosphere, a tragic incident occurred on Thursday, July 7, in Jharsuguda, Odisha. A devotee, identified as Ram Bilas Tudu, died while pulling one of the chariots during the Rath Yatra procession. The cause of his death is still under investigation.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Who is the current Shankaracharya of Govardhan Peeth? Answer: Swami Nischalananda Saraswati
2. What is the significance of the Jagannath Yatra? Answer: It celebrates the journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra to the Gundicha temple.
3. How many Shankaracharyas were established by Adi Shankara? Answer: Four
4. What is Advaita Vedanta? Answer: A school of Hindu philosophy that emphasizes the non-duality of the self and Brahman.
5. What was the cause of the devotee's death during the Rath Yatra procession in Jharsuguda? Answer: The cause is still under investigation.
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