Shillong, Oct 8: In a solemn ceremony held at Raj Bhavan here, Governor of Meghalaya CH Vijayashankar was conferred with the Kaveri Prashasti Award by Trinetra Mahanta Shivayogi Swamiji, the pontiff of the Sri Durdandeshwara Mahanta Shivayogi Math, Mandya district, and Sri DMS Chandravana Ashrama, located on the western banks of the Kaveri River in Srirangapatna, Karnataka.
The event was graced by the presence of several high-ranking dignitaries, including Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong and others.
The Kaveri Prashasti Award was presented in recognition of Vijayashankar’s contributions to public service and leadership over the decades.
In his acceptance speech, the Governor expressed profound gratitude for the honour. He praised the spiritual leader’s impactful service to the nation in areas of education, healthcare, peacebuilding and spiritual guidance.
“The Kaveri Prashasti Award holds deep significance,” said the Governor. “Just as the River Kaveri nourishes life and symbolises purity, this award serves as a reminder for us to strive for goodness and service wherever possible.”
In a heartfelt moment, the Governor revealed that this is the first award he has accepted in his 69 years, highlighting the deep personal respect and connection he shares with Swamiji. “This award is not mine alone, it belongs to the entire state of Meghalaya,” he added.
Sangma, in his address, congratulated the Governor on the rare honour, calling it a reflection of his decades of dedicated public service, humility and commitment to people’s welfare. He also paid tribute to Swamiji for his relentless work in the fields of education, health, environment and spiritual upliftment.
