SHREE ADI SHANKARACHARYA
Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya is an Dharshanika and spiritual reformer who played a pivotal role in revitalizing Sanatana Dharma (the eternal path). Born in Kalady, Kerala, Shankaracharya is regarded as one of the greatest proponents of Advaita Vedanta, the philosophy of non-dualism, which teaches the fundamental oneness of the individual being (Jeevatma) and the universal consciousness (Paramatma).
At a time when Sanatana Dharma was facing decline due to the rise of conflicting philosophies and external influences, Adi Shankaracharya embarked on a mission to restore its purity and philosophical foundations. By the age of 32, he travelled extensively across India, engaging in debates, reviving sacred traditions, and establishing the spiritual and intellectual supremacy of Advaita Vedanta. His profound commentaries on the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras remain foundational texts for Vedantic philosophy.
Shankaracharya also unified diverse spiritual practices by founding the Dashanami Sanyasa order and establishing four key mathas (monastic centers) in the cardinal directionsof India. These centers continue to guide seekers and uphold the teachings of Sanatana Dharma.
The Consecration of Adi Shankaracharya’s Temple at Antahkarana Gnana Nilayam
On the auspicious day of February 3, 2025, Maha Kumbhabhishekam of Adi Shankaracharya’s temple was completed at Antahkarana Gnana Nilayam . In the evening, the temple was graced by the esteemed presence of Jagadguru Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Shankaracharya of Kanchi Matha, whose divine blessings and Anugraha Bhashanam (sacred discourse) sanctified the occasion. This temple stands as the realization of Swami Brahmaatmananda’s lifelong vision and devotion to constructing a sanctum honouring the great Jagadguru. The divine Vigraham of Adi Shankaracharya, exquisitely sculpted by G.L. Bhat and generously donated by Indic Academy, graces the temple’s sanctum. Notably, this complete stone temple is among the first few ever constructed in honour of Adi Shankaracharya, marking a significant milestone in the preservation of his legacy.
Encasing the temple’s sanctified walls are the four Mahavakyas—the great utterances from the Upanishads, each embodying the essence of Advaita Vedanta:
- Tat Tvam Asi (That Thou Art)
- Aham Brahmasmi (I Am Brahman)
- Prajnanam Brahma (Consciousness Is Brahman)
- Ayam Atma Brahma (This Self Is Brahman)
These eternal truths echo through the temple’s halls, inspiring devotees to realize the oneness of their inner self with the universal spirit.
It is a revered belief within the Hindu tradition that Lord Dakshinamurthy was the Jagadguru in Satya Yuga, Dattatreya in Treta Yuga, Veda Vyasa in Dvapara Yuga, and Adi Shankaracharya in Kali Yuga. Through his monumental contributions, Adi Shankaracharya not only safeguarded India’s spiritual heritage but also ignited a renaissance of Hindu thought and practice. Antahkarana Gnana Nilayam aspires to awaken this profound legacy in the hearts of all devotees, ensuring that the teachings of Shankara resonate with every being that enters the ashram.
Swami Brahmaatmananda continues his unwavering devotion to Adi Shankaracharya through Japams of Namah Shankaraya, Dakshinamurthy, and enlightening discourses on the Prasthana Traya and Shankara Bhashya within the temple premises. These sacred activities are conducted for the spiritual enrichment and upliftment of all devotees, inviting them to immerse themselves in the wisdom and grace of Adi Shankaracharya’s timeless teachings.
Om Tat Sat!