Some people come into our lives and walk with us for a while. But there are a rare few who give direction to our thoughts, purpose to our lives, and inspire us to dedicate ourselves to something greater than ourselves. Dr. Prakasarao Velagapudi Garu is one such great soul for all of us. I do not see him merely as the President of the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation. I see him as a great servant of Dharma, a guiding force, and a constant source of inspiration to all of us.

His journey, which began in the small village of Akinuru, passed through education, professional life, spirituality, and service, and has today reached a stage where he continues to serve Hindu Dharma across the world. Even after settling abroad, he never forgot his motherland, his culture, or his Dharma. His involvement in the construction of Hindu temples and spiritual activities eventually took shape as a larger movement of service through the Global Hindu Heritage Foundation in 2006.

Along with protecting temples, he understood that our Dharma, culture, traditions, and values must be passed on to future generations. That vision gave great importance to the Bala Samskar Kendras. Today, thousands of children across several states are receiving Samskara and an understanding of Hindu Dharma through these centers. What touched me deeply on his 88th birthday was seeing children from Bala Samskar Kendras across the country lovingly convey their birthday wishes to him. Many children drew his portrait with great affection, while teachers introduced his life and service to the children. It was a beautiful reminder that the resolve of a young boy who once studied in Akinuru is today continuing as Samskara in the lives of thousands of children.

To mark his birthday, GHHF volunteers also conducted Annadanam in several places, offered fodder to cows in Goshalas, distributed fruits to elderly people, and organized special prayers and pujas in temples seeking the blessings of Bhagavan for his complete health, long life, and continued service to Dharma. To me, these were not merely birthday celebrations. They felt like an expression of gratitude from society — offered through service, prayer, and love to a great soul who has dedicated his life to Dharma.

What inspires me most about Prakasarao Garu is not merely the number of years he has lived, but the extraordinary energy with which he continues to serve even at the age of 88. Even today, he works with an enthusiasm and dedication that can put many younger people to shame. His mind remains active, his spirit remains youthful, and his commitment to Dharma remains unwavering. Thinking about Dharma, working for Dharma, and using every possible opportunity to serve Dharma have become a natural part of his life. His life reminds us that age may belong to the body, but determination has no age.

Whenever I see him working with such energy and dedication, one question naturally arises within me: If he can work with such enthusiasm for Dharma even at this age, how much more should we be doing? That question itself is one of the greatest inspirations he has given me. His commitment to Dharma is my guide. His service is my inspiration. His resolve reminds me of my own responsibility.

Prakasarao Garu, on your 88th birthday, simply wishing you a happy birthday does not feel enough. With the love, devotion, and deep respect that I hold for you in my heart, I offer my humble pranams and feel truly blessed to walk on this great journey of Dharma alongside you. I consider it a privilege to contribute my part, with greater dedication, to the noble mission that you have envisioned and nurtured.

I pray to Bhagavan to bless you with complete health, strength, happiness, and a long life, so that you may continue to serve Hindu Dharma and society with the same enthusiasm, determination, and spiritual commitment for many more years.

Prakasarao Garu, you are not merely an individual to us. You are an inspiration to all of us. Your resolve inspires us. Your service guides us. Your life reminds us of our responsibility towards Dharma.

On your 88th birthday, with our love, devotion, and deepest respect, we offer you our heartfelt birthday wishes. 

May you be blessed with a long, healthy, and fulfilling life in the service of Dharma.