Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday visited the historic Kanaka Mantap in Udupi to pay homage to Kirthanakar Kanakadasa, the revered 14th–15th century saint-philosopher known for his devotional poetry and spiritual teachings. Kanakadasa is famously associated with the legendary incident in which the idol of Lord Krishna at the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple turned westward, symbolizing his devotion and divine intervention.

After offering floral tributes, Modi participated in the “Laksha Geeta Pathana”, a mass recital of the Bhagavad Gitainvolving more than one lakh devotees. Accompanied by Paryaya Puthige Math seer Sugunendra Thirtha, Karnataka Governor Thawarchand Gehlot, and senior temple officials, the Prime Minister joined the collective chanting and read out the verses of the Gita along with the devotees.

Earlier, Modi paid homage at the Kanaka Mantap and then proceeded to the Sri Krishna Temple complex, where he received a traditional Poorna Kumbh swagatham from Sugunendra Thirtha and temple dignitaries. He was presented with a silver-clad Tulasi Japa mala and symbolic Mudras featuring Shankha, Chakra, Gada, and Padma, customary ritual items used by Madhwa followers and many Brahmin communities in South India.

During his visit, the Prime Minister acknowledged Kanakadasa’s devotion and the enduring cultural and spiritual legacy of the Udupi temple, emphasizing the importance of preserving India’s rich religious and philosophical heritage.

This marks PM Modi’s second visit to the Krishna temple, his first being in 2008 when he served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, with Sugunendra Thirtha also serving as the administrative head of the Krishna Math at that time. The event highlighted not only the spiritual significance of Kanakadasa’s teachings but also the cultural unity fostered through collective devotion and the recitation of sacred texts.