The teachings of Vethathiri Maharishi (1911-2006) have been receiving acclaim because the spiritual leader possessed the “weapon” of rationalism, Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi said on Saturday.
Participating in the centenary celebration of Vethathiri Maharishi organised here by the World Community Service Centre, Mr Karunanidhi said to attract the people, the spiritual leader did not use magical powers or claim that he was in contact with god. As he had possessed rationalism that would help people to realise themselves, his teachings and messages were still adored.
Ramalinga Adigal (1823-1874) and Vethathiri Maharishi were conscious of the influence of superstitions on people and they strove for showing the correct path to the public, Mr Karunanidhi said. Receiving from Union Minister for Communications and Information Technology A. Raja the first copy of a commemorative postage stamp on Vethathiri Maharishi, the Chief Minister said the centenary celebrations and postage stamps for eminent persons and freedom fighters were held so that youth would be inspired to emulate such personalities.
N. Mahalingam, industrialist and president of the Temple of Consciousness, Aliyar, recalled his relationship with Maharishi and said the World Community Service Centre founded by the spiritual leader was an outcome of the Satya Gnana Sabai of Adigal.
S.K. Mayilanandan, president of the Service Centre, and S.V. Balasubramaniam, managing trustee of the Temple of Consciousness, were among those who were present.
