A powerful image of spiritual leadership and humility from Karnataka has captured the hearts of netizens nationwide. Abhinava Gavisiddheshwara Swamiji of the revered Gavi Mutt was photographed carrying a heavy bag of rice on his shoulders for the Maha Dasoha (mass community feeding) at the ongoing Gavisiddeswara fair in Koppal. The picture, shared by a devotee, spread like wildfire across social media platforms within a single day, drawing widespread admiration.
A Tradition of Selfless Service
This act is not an isolated gesture but part of a consistent pattern of hands-on service demonstrated by the seer. Merely three days before this incident, a video of the Swamiji personally cleaning the tables where food is served to devotees had also gone viral online. The seer is known for leading by example, embodying the principle of 'practice what you preach'. The Gavisiddheshwara Jatre (fair), which attracts a staggering 15 to 18 lakh devotees over its two-week duration, is a massive logistical undertaking. During this entire period, the Mutt organizes free food (Dasoha) for every visitor.
Devotees Fuel the Divine Kitchen
What makes this initiative even more remarkable is its community-driven nature. All the necessary resources—including rations, funds, and volunteer personnel—are contributed willingly by the devotees themselves. Many observers attribute the overwhelming participation and success of the Dasoha to the Swamiji's profound humility and the transparent, effective utilization of donations for the direct benefit of the pilgrims.
Uncompromising Standards of Cleanliness
The seer's involvement extends far beyond the symbolic. Abhinava Gavisiddheshwara Swamiji conducts regular personal inspections of the massive kitchen, checking the quality of food being prepared, the hygiene of cooking and cleaning areas, and the overall tidiness of the sprawling fair grounds and toilet facilities. If he spots any litter, he does not hesitate to pick it up himself, setting a powerful precedent.
This direct and humble involvement has a cascading effect. Inspired by their leader's actions, devotees voluntarily and diligently maintain cleanliness. The result is nothing short of astonishing: despite a daily influx of lakhs of people, the entire fair ground, kitchen, temple premises, and parking areas remain impeccably clean.
The annual fair, a cornerstone of spiritual and cultural life in the region, commenced on January 1 and will conclude on January 18. The viral images of the Swamiji's service have cast a spotlight on the enduring values of community, selflessness, and grounded leadership that define this grand gathering in Koppal.
