Suttur, August 12, 2025: “The power of knowledge destroys the evil of ignorance,” stated Sri H.B. Devanna while delivering a discourse on the 20th day of the Shravan month at Suttur Srikshetra.

He explained that to remove ignorance from a person, the light of knowledge is essential—light being the symbol of knowledge, and darkness the sign of ignorance. Just as the darkness of night is dispelled by light, the darkness of ignorance is removed by the illumination of knowledge. In the light of wisdom, truth prevails, and untruth is destroyed. Just as the touch of Parushamani removes the impurities of metal, the guidance and words of experienced devotees eradicate worldly attachments and illusions.

To illustrate his message, Sri Devanna narrated the story of Manakanjara, a devout Shiva worshipper from the ancient city of Kancharur, the divine abode with the Ganges on its head. Manakanjara, head of the armed forces, served Shiva’s devotees with complete devotion. Though childless for many years, by the grace of the Lord he was blessed with a beautiful daughter, whom he raised with great care and affection.

When arrangements were underway for her marriage, Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a Yogi to test Manakanjara’s devotion. Welcoming the Yogi with joy, Manakanjara presented his daughter to offer her respects. The Yogi, noticing her thick, beautiful hair, remarked that it would be ideal for making a Panchavadi. Without hesitation, Manakanjara drew his dagger, cut off his daughter’s hair, and offered it to the Yogi. The Yogi vanished instantly, and by divine grace, her hair was miraculously restored.

Even at such a significant family moment, Manakanjara demonstrated the spirit of sacrifice, willing to give anything in service to Shiva’s devotees. Pleased with his unwavering devotion, Lord Shiva granted him the title of Ganapadavi in Kailash.

The day’s service was rendered by the teachers of Suttur and Sri H.L. Mahesh. The program began with a mass prayer and was attended by devotees and spiritual seekers.