Udupi: Sri Vishveshateertha Swamiji of Pejawar Mutt today said that the construction of much awaited Sri Rama Mandir at Ayodhya will begin in 2019. Speaking at the inauguration of three-day Dharma Sansad here, he said "work on Ram Mandir will begin within a year. I can assure that by 2019, the construction will begin." "After the upcoming Paryaya, I will work relentless towards this goal. I will not be at peace till the goal is achieved," he added.
The Swamiji said "The Dharma Sansad is not just about religion, but an effort to make the Hindu society stronger. Untouchability and discrimination are still prevalent in our society, and we need to get rid of them. Man does not achieve greatness because of his caste or creed, but through devotion and purity. Hence Dalits are also
great."
Underlining that there should not be discrimination, the Swamiji said that "Intellectual and spiritual powers make a country great.A People belonging to all religions are equal. All are Indians and there can be no discrimination". Referring to recent controversy raised, Vishveshathreetha Swamiji said "Lingayats and Veerashaivas are part of the Hindu community.
Hindu religion has many faces, but only one heart. Hence everyoneshould unite and treat each other with equality. There is no majority or minority - these are notions created by the government,and such notions are against the spirit of secularism. The freedoms available to the majorities should be accessible to minorities too.The 'secular' government has created this rift between Lingayats and Veerashaivas. This should not happen. Everyone should get equal
opportunities," he added.
Referring to the cow slaughter issue, the Swamiji said, "Every state should unite and pass a nation-wide law against cow slaughter." (UNI)