Shreemad Vidyadheesh Teerth Shreepad Wader Swami of Partagali Math conferred the prestigious Vidyadhiraj Award upon renowned Goan industrialist and philanthropist Shrinivas Dempo on the occasion of the Math’s Foundation Day, held at its premises.
On the same occasion, the Swamiji also honoured several devotees and followers of the Partagali Mutt. The Jeevottam Puraskar was presented to Amarnath Kamath (Bengaluru), Shrinivas Bhat (Mumbai), and Anil Pai (Goa), while the Purushottam Puraskar was awarded to Vedmurthy Shridhar Bhat (Gokarn).
Minister for Public Works Digambar Kamat and noted industrialist Audhut Timblo were present at the occasion.
Delivering his ashirvacha (words of blessing), the Swamiji said that the Math recognises members of its community for their diverse contributions, including philanthropic support towards the Math and temples. “Through these awards, we aim to honour and encourage our followers,” he said.
Reflecting on the tradition of recognition, the Swamiji added, “While the Math has always expressed admiration for its community members through such honours, my predecessor, Shrimad Vidyadhiraj Teerth Swamiji, bestowed upon me the most significant award; the responsibility of leading this monastery.”
Highlighting Shrinivas Dempo’s contributions, the Swamiji noted that Dempo has served as president of the Math committee for 25 years with exceptional dedication. “While vision, ideas, and strategies are essential, financial support is equally crucial for implementation. Shrinivas Dempo has been a pillar of strength, consistently supporting the Math’s growth and development,” he said.
In his acceptance speech, Dempo described the award as a ‘kaul-prasad;’ a sacred blessing from the Math and its deities, Shree Ramdev and Shree Veer Vitthal. He praised the Swamiji as a true visionary, stating that his leadership harmoniously blends tradition with modernity. “By embracing globalisation while preserving the Math’s rich heritage, the Swamiji is guiding the community forward,” he said.
Earlier in the programme, Dempo and the vice-president of the Math committee, R. R. Naik, performed Padyapuja of the Swamiji. The Swamiji also released Bhajan Swami Stuti, a devotional composition by Kiran Naik. Pallavi Dempo, Executive Director of Dempo Industries, presented copies of special supplements published by The Navhind Times and Navprabha to mark the 551st Foundation Day of the Partagali Math.
The ceremony was compered by Anil Pai and concluded with a traditional palanquin procession of the Math’s deity.
