TRANSCRIPT

SERMON DELIVERED BY ASA VICE PRESIDENT PRINCE ADHIKARI AT THE INSTALLATION OF THE NEWLY ELECTED SENATORS 

29 September, 2024 

Good morning President Herseth-Sandlin, President Johnston, Ladies and Gentlemen, 

As we come together for the installation of the newly elected senators of the ASA Senate, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible qualities embodied by two powerful figures in Hinduism: Goddess Durga and Lord Shiva. 

I would first begin with the story of Goddess Durga and her fierce battle against the buffalo demon, Mahishasura. Now, Mahishasura was no ordinary foe. He was a demon who had gained unimaginable power through rigorous penance, securing a boon from Lord Brahma. This boon allowed him to change forms at will, making him nearly invincible. But, in his arrogance, he made a critical mistake. He asked that he could only be killed by a woman.

Why would he do this? Because he believed women were weaker, that they posed no real threat to his might. This was not just a misconception; it was a miscalculation that would lead to his downfall.

In response to the chaos he unleashed upon the world, the gods came together, uniting their divine energies to create Durga—a goddess who embodies strength, resilience, and compassion. With weapons bestowed upon her by the gods, she descended into battle against Mahishasura.

Durga fought with unparalleled courage and tenacity. And in the end, she emerged victorious, restoring balance to the universe. Their epic struggle lasted nine days and nights. And these nine nights are known as “Navratri” where “nav” means 9, and "ratri" means “nights” which Hindus across the world will be celebrating starting this Thursday. 

One verse that captures her spirit beautifully is:

"दुर्गं प्रपन्नाः स्मृतेः सुरासुरैः पूजिताम्।
शरणागतदीनार्तं तं कष्टं परितोऽनुकीर्तय।"

Translation:
"Those who take refuge in you, O Durga,
are honored by gods and revered by all.
You relieve the distress of the helpless,
extending compassion to those who seek your protection."

This verse reminds us that true leadership is about lifting others, about extending our hands to those in need. Durga shows us that strength isn’t just in battle—it’s in compassion.

When we talk about leadership in Hinduism, we need to remember Lord Shiva, one who is close and dear to me. Known as "Mahadeva", he embodies the essence of strength while living a life of humility. Despite being the Supreme Lord, he is often depicted as an ascetic—simple, serene, and connected to the earth.

One of the most poignant moments in Shiva’s story occurs during the churning of the ocean: Samudra Manthan. The gods and demons were desperate to obtain the nectar of immortality, so they decided to churn the cosmic ocean, using Mount Mandara as the churning rod and the serpent Vasuki as the rope. But as they churned, a deadly poison emerged from the depths of the ocean. This poison was so potent that it threatened to destroy the entire creation.

Now, here comes the pivotal moment. Rather than letting the universe succumb to chaos, Lord Shiva stepped forward. To protect all beings, he willingly consumed the poison, holding it in his throat to prevent it from spreading throughout his body. This act earned him the name Nilkanth, meaning “the blue-throated one.”

Shiva's sacrifice serves as a profound reminder that true leadership means putting others before oneself.

Listen to this verse that reflects his essence:

"महादेवो महादेवः सर्वज्ञः सर्वमङ्गलम्।
सर्वसिद्धिप्रदाता च भक्तानां चित्तसंतोषकः।"

Translation:
"The Great God, the Supreme Lord,
who knows all and brings all auspiciousness,
bestower of all accomplishments,
he who brings peace to the hearts of his devotees."

Shiva teaches us that strength lies not just in power but also in simplicity and selflessness. His sacrifice reminds us that being a leader means taking risks, making sacrifices, and offering peace to those around us.

As we reflect on the powerful lessons from Durga and Shiva, let’s celebrate the contributions of women in leadership roles today. Durga represents the strength and compassion we strive for. And we are fortunate— so fortunate—to have many women in critical positions at Augustana, in our state of South Dakota, and across our great nation. So, let us all draw inspiration from these stories and may we embody the qualities of compassion, simplicity, and sacrifice in our leadership.

Thank you.

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