Sri Krishna Matha expresses regret over objectionable remarks against Adiguru Shankaracharya

Udupi (Karnataka), Jul 14 (PTI) Udupi-based Shri Krishna Matha on Tuesday expressed deep regret over an incident in which alleged objectionable remarks about Sri Adiguru Shankaracharya were made during a Harikatha programme held here, and said the organisers had been instructed to issue a public apology. In a public statement issued on behalf of the Matha, Diwan (Administrator) M Udaya Kumar of Paryaya Sri Shiroor Matha said the organisers had obtained permission only to conduct a Bharatanatyam performance and a Harivana Seva programme, but instead staged a Harikatha titled "Bhakta Prahlada" during which the alleged remarks were made. "During this programme, objectionable remarks were allegedly made about Sri Jagadguru Shankaracharya, which has come to our notice," the statement said. The Matha said Ankit Naik and Gauri Pandurangi had secured permission on July 11 to conduct a one-hour Bharatanatyam programme and a one-hour Harivana Seva programme. However, it said that during the event, they conducted a Harikatha programme titled "Bhakta Prahlada" instead. "In this regard, Ankit Naik and Gauri Pandurangi were instructed to publicly apologise. Accordingly, Pandurangi has sought forgiveness through a video message," the statement said. "The Matha expresses its deep regret over this unfortunate and undesirable incident," it said. PTI GMS KH