Terming Dharmasthala as the place that brings all religions together, religious leaders called upon people not to take the path of violence that disturbs the solidarity among communities.
Speaking at the sant sammelan on Friday, being held as prelude to the 10-day mahamastakabhisheka of Bahubali that commences from Saturday, Sagar Munimaharaj said: “We are all one here.” He added that no community can claim right over the land, the air, and the water.
Vardhamana Sagar Munimaharaj said that a visit to Dharmasthala gives devotees a sense of fulfilment.
Devendrakeerti Bhattaraka Mahaswami said there was lot to learn from the life of Bahubali, who did not hanker for power. “His philosophy is relevant in the present time where we see fights for political power,” the seer said.
Brahmananada Saraswati from Sri Ramakshetra, Kanyadi, said it was important to cleanse souls from ill-thoughts. Jain Munis, he said, show the way to get involved in tasks that helps in attaining salvation.
Dharmadhikari of Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala D. Veerendra Heggade said the sammelan has brought together different religious leaders.
Gurudevananda Swami from Odiyoor Mutt, Shanta Mallikarjuna Swami from Virajpet, Mohandas Paramahamsa Swami from Manila, and Santosh Guruji also spoke.
Minister of Public Works H.D. Revanna, Channamma Deve Gowda and H.D. Deve Gowda’s daughter Shailaja took part in the sammelan. Mr. Revanna said ₹23 crore was being spent for widening the roads leading to Dharmasthala.