India, 2500 years ago, was passing through adark period. The people were divided on different lines. The clouds of ignorance were hovering over the land. Spiritual values which formed the basis of our culture were declining. The need of the hour was a Guru who would dispel the darkness and guide the nation to restore its pristine glory. Whenever such a need arises, Lord Sadashiva Himself manifested and established a traditoon of Guru worship, leading the people to the right destination. Sadashiva appeared as Guru Shri Dakshinamurthy who ever remained in silence, with the sign of Chinmudra where the thumb joining the index finger signified the unity of Jiva and Brahman; the other three fingers symbolizing the separation of body, mind and intellect. It is believed that Lord Shiva has manifested as Shankara in order to awaken the people and lead them to the right destination.
Shankara was born to Shivaguru Aryambal couple at Kalady about 2500 years ago. The word Kalady means the place where the imprint of the feet of Lord Shiva exists.Shankara’s Upanayanam ceremony was held in a solemn and simple manner. Upanayanam signifies transition from the stage of boyhood to Brahmacharya where one gets the first advice, Brahmopadesa from father and the inner eyes are opened. As part of Upanayanam ceremony, the Brahmachari goes out and seeks alms from houses nearby. This way, he learns the importance of austerity, humbleness, and desirelessness. One day, when Shankara was in Gurukulam, he stepped into a house nearby and sought alms. Unfortunately, the poor lady who had nothing to offer rushed to the backyard, managed to get a gooseberry and offered it to Shankara. Shankara accepted it gladly. Knowing the poor condition of the lady, he rendered a song, Kanakadhara, which brought a shower of golden gooseberries all over. There was another miracle. Mother Aryambal was finding it very difficult to walk long distance daily to reach the Poorna river for bath. Shankara then made a prayer and soon the river changed its direction and started flowing through the backyard of Shankara’s house.
Shankara wanted to renounce everything material and adopt spiritual life. He wanted to go away, find the Guru and adopt sainthood (Sanyasa), but Aryambal did not agree as, being a mother, she could not remain separate from her son. Once when Shankara was taking bath, a crocodile caught his leg. The mother saw that Shankara bitterly cried for help. Even in his bound condition, Shankara told his mother that if he had to escape from the clutches of crocodile, she should agree with her son changing to Sanyasa Ashrama. According to scriptures, by obtaining Sanyasa one gets a new birth or a new lease of life. Since the mother wanted her son to be alive at any cost, she agreed. Shankara, who was a Jnani by birth itself, uttered the relevant mantra for entering the Sanyasa Ashrama and was released from the jaws of the crocodile.
After promising his mother that he will be by her side at her last moment, Shankara started his journey towards north India by walk. He went through difficult terrains, plains and thick forests, sometime without food and at last reached Omkareshwara temple on the banks of river Narmada. It was here Shri Govind Bhagavad Pada had his abode. Shankara was pleased that he found his Guru, went to him and prostrated before him. The great sage posed a question: “Who Are You”. Shankara then said: “I am neither the body, nor the mind, nor the intellect. I am not the Indriyas. I am the ever-existing Self”. Pleased by this answer, the Guru initiated Shankara into the order of Sanyasa. Later, Shankara composed an excellent song, ‘Nirvana Shatakam” which discards the Upadhis of mind and body and reveals his true identity; the pure and ever existing Atman.
Having received the initiation and blessings from his Guru, Shankara embarked upon a long pilgrimage. Followed by other devotees, Shankara reached the holy town of Kashi, the abode of Lord Viswanatha, Visalakshi, and Kala Bhairava. Kashi is the most ancient temple city. It is believed that one who dies at Kashi will have no rebirth and will attain liberation. During Shankara’s stay at Kashi many important events took place. Shankara used to sit under the shade of a tree and render discourses. Eager to cross the turbulent ocean of Samsara (material life ) and inspired by the philosophy of Shankara, many people came to him to seek guidance and advice and Sanandana was one among them . Sanandana hailed from the land where Kaveri flows. He came to Acharya, fell at his feet, and said: “I have come to imbibe the nectar of wisdom that flows from you. Grace me to be of service to you.” Recognizing his innate quest for jnana, Shankara accepted him as his disciple. He was the first disciple of Acharya. Once, while Acharya was getting ready to give a discourse on the banks of river Ganga, Sanandana happened to be on the other side of the river. When the Acharya said:“Sanandana, come”, Sanandana wanted to obey the master instantly and oblivious of the river flowing in front of him, he just walked, but mother Ganga could not let a disciple of Shankara to fall. Strong lotuses sprouted and provided support to Sanandana at every step and he reached his master in time. He therefore came to be known as Padmapada.
Most of the time Acharya remained in Samadhi stage. Once, after the bath at Ganga, Acharya was proceeding from Manikarnika ghat to the temple of Annapurneswari along with his disciples. While walking through a narrow street, a Chandala (an outcaste) was coming from the opposite direction along with four dogs. The street was normally used by Pundits and therefore others avoid using it. Acharya could not proceed further unless the Chandala with four dogs gave way. When a disciple asked Chandala to move away, Chandala replied: “Whom are you asking to move away, my body or my Atman? Body made of five elements is neither a Chandala nor a Brahmana. The air that is in the pot of the body of Chandala is same as the air that is contained in the body of Brahmana. When I am conscious that I am the Self, like the vast space within the pot of the body and beyond, I do not identify myself as Chandala whereas you have the proud notion of “I am the Brahmana.” The Chandala went away with a smile saying: “Go beyond the concepts of body and remain conscious of your Self”. Adi Shankara heard it and realized that Chandala was airing his own philosophy of Advaita. Acharya then composed his immortal song, “Manisha Panchakam” containing five verses which bring out the essence of Advaita Vedanta. Manisha means the firm conviction of one’s true identity and Panchakam means five verses.
One day, being invited by the authorities, Shankaracharya, accompanied by Pundits, went to an Institution engaged in Sastra education. He was very glad in interacting with the students and teachers. There, he happened to see an old man seriously engaged in studying the rules of Sanskrit by Panini. He was talking continuously as if he was eager to display his knowledge. Addressing the scholar, Shankara said: “Even at this old age, this much of ignorance is really pitiable. Rather than contemplating on your real nature, why engage yourself in meaningless pursuits? Death is following you like a shadow. Ponder over the question of how to cross this ocean of Samsara. Recite the name of Govinda.” The old man thanked Acharya for advising him the right path. Acharya then composed his immortal verse, “Bhaja Govindam” which is regarded as an outstanding work of devotion.
Leaving Kashi, Acharya continued his pilgrimage. He visited holy places like Haridwar, Badrikashramam, Jyotirdham, Kedar etc. He then wrote exhaustive co mmentary for ten Upanishads – Eesavasyam, Kenam, Katha, Mundaka, Maandookya, Aithareya, Prasna, Taitreeya, Chandogya and Brihadaranyaka. The word Upanishad signifies the ultimate knowledge (Jnana) obtained by a disciple from his Guru. Acharya has also done commentaries on Bhagavad Gita and Brahmasuthram. Arriving at Prayaga, Acharya met Kumarilabhatta, a scholar of Mimamsa school of thought. Mimamsa means the art of thinking, interpretation, and application. After giving him the sacred advice on Paramartha, Acharya went to see Mandana Mishra, who, like his Guru Kumarilabhatta, was a serious advocate of the ritualistic school of Vedas. Acharya wanted a debate with him in order to establish the primary importance of Advaita. After initial reluctance, Mandana Mishra agreed for a debate. A fierce debate ensued, at the end of which Mandana Mishra saw reason behind Shankara’s doctrine. He realized that Shankara, an embodiment of Lord Shiva, had come to guide the humanity to overcome the bondage of Samsara. He then became the disciple of Acharya and was known as Sureshwara. Sureshwara has done an excellent work called Vartikam. Vartikam is defined as the work that explains what has been said, what has been left unsaid and what has been said incompletely. Acharya appreciated Sureshwara’s commitment towards Vedanta and entrusted him the task of writing commentaries on Brihadaranyaka and Taittriya Upanishads. Acharya then continued his journey towards South. He arrived at Shrisailam. Here, after worshipping the Linga, he remained in deep introspection without any outside contact. He composed Shivananda Lahiri, a Stotra on Shiva, from here.
After worshipping Mookambika at Kollur, Acharya reached a place called Shrivali in Karnataka. This place is noted for the temple of Shiva where the chanting of Veda Mantra by pundits reverberates in the air. Having learned about the arrival of Acharya the people of the locality assembled before him to pay their obeisance. After bestowing his blessings on them and after worshiping Shiva at the temple, Acharya walked through the streets of the town. Among the many devotees who had lined up to have a glimpse of Acharya, there was a devotee called Prabhakara. He went near Acharya, prostrated and asked his son also to do the same. The boy prostrated but never got up. Acharya, full of compassion, then lifted the boy. The father then poured out his grievance to Acharya. He said: “My son who is 7 years old, does not seem to be normal. He never speaks, never plays and never responds. He prefers to be alone and does not evince interest in anything. You only can revive him.” Acharya looked at him. The moment the divine eyes of Acharya were cast, it made an impact on the boy. Acharya then lovingly asked the boy “who are you?”. Soon, the Self-awareness that was hiding in him opened up. The boy’s face brightened. With the grace of Acharya that fell on him, for the first time words came from his mouth. The young teenager who appeared so incapable of speech now spoke lucidly and eloquently in a series of 12 beautiful verses. Here are a few significant verses from the song.
He said: “I am neither a human, nor a Deva, nor demigod. I am neither a Brahmana, nor Kshatriya, Vaishya nor Shudra. I am neither a bachelor (Brahmachari), nor a house-holder (Grihastha). I am not a forest dweller (Vanaprastha); I am not a monk either. I am the ever-existing Self, the Atman, which causes my mind and senses to function, just as the sun causes all movements on earth. I am the Atman that is devoid of all limiting adjuncts. I am like the vast space above, ever existing. (Naaham manushyo na cha devayakshou, Na Brahmana- Kshatriya- Vaishya- Shudrah, Na brahmacharina grihi vanastho, Bhikshur na chaham nijabodharupah” “I am the Self which gives me the consciousness of my existence; consciousness and the Self being inseparable like fire and heat. I am the Atman which is independent of the inner organs like the mind and senses and yet cause them to function” (Yamagnynushnavat). The boy continued: “I am not anything related to the body; I am ever conscious Self; I am Brahman”.
Hearing this, Acharya nodded in appreciation. The parents stood astonished by the high words of truth spoken by their son. Acharya told them: “He has realized the Self by virtue of qualities inherited from past lives. When he is totally absorbed in Brahma Jnana, it is not advisable to involve him into Vyavahara (worldly activities). Since he is destined to remain in Yoga Nishta in the company of Sanyasis, permit us to take him with us.” The parents felt sad for being separated from their son so suddenly. However considering the higher state he has attained, they agreed. Acharya then said that the knowledge of the Self shines naturally in him. As he experiences it as distinctly as an amalaka (gooseberry) in the hand, he would be known as Hastamalaka. While the parents were looking, Acharya took Hastamalaka with him and later initiated him to the order of Sanyasa.
After worshipping Subrahmanya at the temple, Acharya continued his journey and reached Shringeri (Kudali). Nature in its splendor and glory has made this place a beautiful place on earth. The water in Thunga-Bhadra river which flows here is noted for its purity. The climate here, which is neither too hot nor too cold, is very congenial place for meditation. Acharya showed the place where frog and snake lived in mutual love. The ever-lasting peace that prevailed here attracted the disciples of Acharya. Acharya founded the temple for Mother Sarada and also a Mutt here which functions as a great Institution advocating the principles of Sanatana Dharma. Acharya established four Amnaya Peethams in Shringeri (Kudali), Dwaraka, Puri and Jyotirmutt and Mulamnaya Peetham in Kanchipuram.
After entering Karnataka, while Acharya was passing through a place called Hariharapuram, a young youth (Brahmachari) came to him and prostrated. From his conduct, it became very evident that he was devoted, humble, venerable towards Guru and limited in speech. He appeared least interested in worldly activities. He considered the act of doing selfless service to Guru as the highest Sadhana. Acharya was impressed by his conduct and invited him to participate in the Satsang. Whenever Acharya conducted the discourse, Anandagiri came, took a seat in a corner and listened attentively. Rather than gathering what Acharya was speaking, he found happiness by being in the presence of Acharya. Normally, before starting his discourse Acharya used to make sure that Hasthamalaka and Anandagiri are present. For Hastamalaka, there is nothing beyond the Self and for Anandagiri, there is nothing beyond Guru. Once, Acharya was sittng under the shade of a tree on the banks of Tunga River for his usual discourse. Soon his disciples and devotees also assembled. But rather than starting the discourse, Acharya was sittng still. When Padmapada enquired about the reason for not starting, Acharya said that Giri had not yet come. Exactly at that time, Giri was washing the clothes of Acharya near Thunga river. Immersed in his duty, he did not know about Acharya’s discourse. Having waited for some time, a disciple said: “Why not Acharya start his discourse. Even if Giri comes, he may not be able to understand anything.” Acharya replied to him: “You mean you can know everything by means of intelligence. Know that Self-knowledge is gained not through the intellectual means.” Acharya looked in the direction of Giri and instantly then Giri felt a light shining in his heart. The light of knowledge that came from Acharya entered into Giri. The enlightened Giri came to the venue of discourse and looking at Giri those assembled there gathered that by the grace of Acharya, Giri had been transformed into a realized sage. Giri at that time composed an excellent work called “Totakashtakam”. All those who listened to this song of Giri admired the erudition and knowledge of Giri. Touching his head, Acharya said: “You have become enlightened by virtue of your devotion towards Guru and this devotion be seen as an example for all others to follow”.
Once, while writing commentary on Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, Acharya felt that his mother was calling him. After telling Sureshwara to attend to the work there, he proceeded to Kaladi. Another disciple called Chitsuka also accompanied Acharya. In fulfillment of his promise, Shankara appeared before his mother. Seeing her son’s face bright like an effulgent moon, his saffron attire, the chain of Rudraksha beads around his neck, forehead smeared with sacred ash, and the divine aura pervading all over, the mother was in ecstasy. Shankara remained close to her, attending to her needs for some days. As Shankara recited a song on Krishna, Aryambal could get the vision of Krishna and soon she went into a state of samadhi. By the grace of Acharya, mother attained Mukthi, the state where she rests eternally in Atma and left the body. After performing ceremonial rituals and cremation, Acharya left Kalady. The shrine for mother Aryambal exists in the Shringeri Mutt there.
Kanchipuram is a great spiritual center. From time immemorial, Kanchi has been a great seat of learning. The sacred city with a great cultural heritage, is described as Mokshapuri, the city that confers liberation. It is one of the seven sacred cities of Bharata Varsha, the other cities being Ayodhya, Mathura, Dwaraka, Haridwar, Kashi and Ujjain. The first three are sacred to Vishnu and the other three are sacred to Shiva. Kanchipuram is unique because it is the abode of both Shiva and Vishnu. Many temples of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu are located here. References to Kanchi are found in Shiva Rahasya, Markandeya Samhita and in many other scriptures. Kanchi remained and continues to remain as the venue for philosophical and spiritual deliberations.
After visiting many temples in South India like Arunachalam and Shrisailam, Acharya reached Kanchipuram. He visited the Kamakshi and Ekamreshwara temples and worshipped Kamakshi and Shiva. Thereafter, Shankara had darshan of Shri Varadaraja. He chose this city as the ideal place to proclaim the message of Advaita Vedanta and established the Matham known as Mulamnaya Kamakoti Pitha. The word ‘Kama’ means desire and ‘koti’ means the end. In other words, Kamakoti Pitha refers to a state where all worldly desires end and the brilliant rays of knowledge dawn. Kamakoti Math is more than a mere Institution or Math. It is a beacon light that radiates the light of devotion and knowledge throughout the land. We find exquisite sculptural expressions of Shri Shankaracharya at Kanchi. With his disciples, Shankara lived in the Math near Kamakshi temple. In the Kamakshi Amman temple, there is a separate shrine for Adi Shankara. Shankara spent last phase of his life here advocating the Advaita doctrine. Since the purpose for which Lord Shiva manifested as Shankara had been served, Shankara attained immortal bliss here at the age of 32.
Kanchi Math stands as a premier spiritual center to highlight the doctrine of Advaita and to carry the message of Sanatana Dharma. People look up to Kanchi Math at every stage of their life, in good or bad times, for a blessing, for advice, for help or for Satsangh and Kanchi Math always fulfilled their aspirations. It is a source of inspiration. There were many illustrious saints who brought sanctity to the Kanchi Peetham, who made Kanchi Peetham a great Institution of learning and who made it a centre to profess the message of Advaita. Shri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati Swamigal, the 68th Jagadguru, known as the God that moves, is best known among the recent Acharyas.
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Acknowledgement:
1. “Atma Teertham” by Shri Ramanacharana Teerthar, Nochur Swamigal
2. “Shri Shankaracharya” by Shri N. Ramesam