Udupi: Dignitaries from Australia, US, Japan to attend Sri Puthige Paryaya

Udupi: Preparations for Paraya Mahotsava of Sri Sugunendra Theertha Sripada of Sri Puthige Matha are in full swing and several foreign dignitaries will be attending the event on January 17 and 18.

The Math has confirmed the participation of dignitaries from America, Japan, and Australia in the ceremony.

The dignitaries include Dr William F. Vendley, Vice President of World Religion and Spirituality, Reverend Kosho Niwano from Japan, and Luke Donnellan, former Minister for Victoria, Australia.

Dr. Vendley heads the Shared Sacred Story project aimed at reconciling modern science and historical religions. He had served as the General Secretary of the Religions for Peace for 27 years. He is also the co-founder of Hope for African Children Initiative (HACI), a charity working for millions of children affected by HIV/AIDS.

Reverend Kosho Niwano, President-Designate of Rissho Kosei-kai, is the first daughter of President Nichiko Niwano. Rev. Niwano has been involved with organizations such as the Religions for Peace World Assembly and the King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz International Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue (KAICIID).

Luke Donnellan was widely recognized for his consistent support for the Indian community during his tenure as a minister. He
actively engaged with and attended numerous Hindu festivals, underlining his commitment to cultural inclusivity and diversity. As a regular visitor to temples, he exemplified an inclusive approach, fostering positive relations with the Indian and Hindu communities in Victoria and has been encouraging the South Indian Hindu community in Victoria by continuously participating in the festivals and religious programs of the Krishna Temple established by Sri Sugunendra Theertha.