Mysuru, September 14, 2021: Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji, in his address at the inauguration of the JSS Counseling Center in Mysuru, emphasized the detrimental impact of alcohol addiction on society. He described alcoholism as a social disease that affects both urban and rural areas, leading to mental health issues for those struggling with addiction. The primary objective of the JSS Counseling Center is to provide guidance and support to individuals seeking to overcome their alcohol addiction, with the ultimate aim of creating an alcohol-free society and building a strong nation.
His Holiness Paramapujya Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji commended the efforts of the Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Math and the JSS Mahavidyapeetha in conducting alcohol de-addiction camps since 2014. These camps aim to educate and assist individuals in overcoming their alcohol habits. His Holiness expressed his satisfaction in witnessing the participation of people from both rural and urban areas, noting that many individuals have successfully quit alcohol addiction through these initiatives. He encouraged those who have benefitted from the programs to further educate others, as it would have a more significant impact. The inauguration of the counseling center in Mysuru reflects the growing demand for such services in society, and His Holiness urged people to utilize the center’s resources effectively. He unveiled the center’s nameplate and handbills on this occasion.
Vatal Swamiji, while speaking at the event, acknowledged the significant efforts made by the Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Math and JSS Mahavidyapeetha in assisting individuals with alcohol addiction. He highlighted the increasing number of alcoholics in rural areas, leading to hardships for their families. He emphasized the importance of educating youth in rural areas and commended the continuous efforts of Parampujya Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji in this regard. He believed that the establishment of the counseling center in the city would benefit many individuals seeking help.
Dr. C.G. Betsurmath, Executive Secretary of JSS MVP, addressed the audience, stating that alcohol addiction poses numerous challenges to society. He emphasized that alcohol consumption leads to violence, cruelty, indiscipline, and negative behavior. The effects of alcohol vary across different age groups, making it essential to establish counseling centers to create an alcohol-free society.
Sri Krishnakumar of the Parampare Organization expressed his belief that the counseling center’s location in the city center would benefit many individuals. He explained that the center’s objective is to educate people about the adverse effects of alcohol, provide treatment for addicts, and offer counseling services to aid in their recovery.
Various individuals, including Ganesh, Shantaraju, Veeraraju, and others, shared their views and opinions on the importance of addressing alcohol addiction in society.
The program included a welcome address by Dr. M.P. Somashekar, an invocation by Smt. M. Geetha, and Sri S. Basavaraju served as the program’s anchor. The event was attended by Sri Jayrajendra Swamiji, Junior seer of the Sri Suttur Math, pontiffs from the Huliyurdurga and Madalli Math, the Chunchanahalli Pontiff, and administrative officers of the JSS Mahavidyapeetha.
By establishing the JSS Counseling Center, the JSS Mahavidyapeetha aims to provide vital support and guidance to individuals