Date:19/12/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/12/19/stories/2006121904950400.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

Kalam recalls acharya's words

Staff Reporter

BANGALORE: President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam is under "the divine command to make nuclear weapons ineffective, insignificant and politically inconsequential."

These words were from Acharya Mahapragnaji when Dr. Kalam met him.

The President narrated this at the 1047th jayanthi of Shivarathreeshwara Swamiji here on Monday. The great soul, who has completed 75 years as monk, gave this message to him, he said.

Dr. Kalam quoted the acharya as saying, "Kalam, God bless you for what you have done with your team. The Almighty has a bigger mission for you and that is why you are here with me today. I know our country is a nuclear nation now. The mission for you is greater than what you and your team have done, and it is greater than any human being had ever done. The nuclear weapons are proliferating in tens and thousands in the world. I command with all the divine blessings, you and only you, to find a solution."

Dr. Kalam said the message "still reverberates in my mind."

The Suttur Math, he said, had a great tradition. Its educational and spiritual institutions were radiating the lamp of knowledge.

It was engaged in a number of missions for improving the quality of life of the rural people through education and healthcare.

Praising the campuses of JSS institutions run by the math, he said, they integrated learning with spiritual way of life.

Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy commended the spiritual work of math. Deputy Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa said the State was working on the development goals set forth by the President.

Governor T.N. Chaturvedi, Shivakumara Swamiji of Siddaganga Math, Balagangadharanatha Swamiji of Adichunchanagiri Math, Siddeshwara Swamiji of Bijapur, Shivaratri Deshikendra Swamiji of Suttur Math spoke.

Oath

Dr. Kalam was at his inspirational best: interacting with children and setting them goals.

Nearly 500 students from schools of JSS Institutions promised the first citizen of the country that they would work hard and contribute towards the development of the country.

Dr. Kalam asked the students to take an oath "for a good and purposeful life."

The President later left for Erode. Mr. Yediyurappa and senior government officials were present at the airport to see him off.