Varkala (Kerala): Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Tuesday said that spirituality and social responsibility cannot be separated, stressing that faith remains incomplete if it does not contribute to the upliftment of society.

Addressing a gathering after inaugurating the 93rd Sivagiri Pilgrimage at Sivagiri Math in Varkala, near Thiruvananthapuram, the Vice President said India’s journey towards Viksit Bharat cannot be built on infrastructure alone.

“Spiritual life and social life cannot be separated. If faith does not uplift society, then faith remains incomplete,” he said.

He underlined that progress must be rooted in values, unity and compassion, observing that machines and highways by themselves cannot shape a nation.

Referring to India’s pluralistic fabric, Radhakrishnan said the country’s strength lies in the harmonious coexistence of multiple faiths, a principle actively supported by the Union government.

“When Indians faced hardships in Iran, they were brought back safely. Haj pilgrims now have streamlined facilities. Buddhist sites are connected as circuits,” he said.

The Vice President noted that pilgrimage tourism in India is expanding beyond travel to become a deeply spiritual experience. He cited initiatives such as the PRASAD scheme and the expansion of Vande Bharat trains as examples of efforts to link modern connectivity with spiritual heritage.

“From Ayodhya to Rameswaram, spiritual circuits unite people. These efforts create livelihoods, foster harmony and strengthen society,” he said, adding that the Sivagiri Pilgrimage itself reflects this spirit of unity.

Cautioning against what he described as an age of distraction, Radhakrishnan warned, “Social media pulls minds apart. Shortcuts attract young minds. Drug menace and false success worry us.”

He urged institutions inspired by Sree Narayana Guru to guide young people towards harmony, away from extremism and towards national strength. The Guru’s blend of rationalism and spirituality, he said, makes him not merely a historical figure but a guiding force for the future.

The Vice President observed that devotees at Sivagiri come together irrespective of caste, community or background, united by shared values, service and faith, demonstrating how spiritual practice can reinforce social cohesion.

Even today, he said, the teachings of Sree Narayana Guru continue to influence education, social reform, and human dignity in Kerala.

Expressing hope that the pilgrimage would deepen social responsibility and ethical citizenship, he said, “Together, let us commit ourselves to building an Atmanirbhar, Viksit, and Shreshtha Bharat.”

“From this sacred hill of Sivagiri and Sivagiri Math, I call upon our youth and all citizens to draw inspiration from the teachings of Sree Narayana Guru and uphold the constitutional values of equality, fraternity, and justice,” he added.

Describing the Sivagiri Pilgrimage as a journey aimed at the holistic betterment of humanity, Radhakrishnan said it represents a seamless blend of spiritual pursuit and socio-economic progress.

Four books on Sree Narayana Guru were released during the ceremony, with the Vice President formally handing them over to the Governor. Among them was The Sage Who Reimagined Hinduism by MP Shashi Tharoor, sources said.

Earlier in the day, the Vice President offered prayers and paid homage at the Samadhi of Sree Narayana Guru at Sivagiri Math.

PTI