Maryland, USA, September 10, 2024: “Protecting our culture and traditions is a duty we all share,” remarked Sri D.K. Shivakumar, Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, while addressing the Sneha-Sammilana program organized by the Kaveri Kannada Sangha at the JSS Spiritual Mission, Maryland, USA, on September 9, 2024. Sri Shivakumar highlighted the importance of preserving cultural heritage, especially for those living abroad. “Birth is accidental and death inevitable. It is what we do between these two events that matters. We must contribute positively to society in this span,” he stated. He lauded the efforts of the Suttur Math in establishing the JSS Spiritual Mission in the USA, which not only serves the spiritual needs of Indians but also plays a pivotal role in protecting and spreading Indian culture and traditions. “The Suttur Math is fulfilling a role that should ideally be played by the government, providing education and support to all sections of society through its institutions and hostels. It is our responsibility to join hands with His Holiness in this noble work,” added Sri Shivakumar. His Holiness Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji, in his blessings, praised Sri Shivakumar for his administrative skills, perseverance, and leadership qualities. “He has faced numerous challenges in his political life but has handled them all with great efficiency and courage,” His Holiness observed, expressing his joy in being part of the event. The program saw participation from prominent members of the community, including office-bearers of the AKKA program, Sri Ben Chikkaswamy, Sri Ravidankanakote, Sri Daya Adappa, and Sri Sudarshan, President of Kaveri Kannada Koota. Numerous NRIs and volunteers of the JSS Spiritual Mission were also in attendance. The event was marked by a warm welcome from Sri Nagashankar, an invocation by Sri Muralidhar Pai, and a vote of thanks delivered by Smt. Shubha Prabhu Kamat.