Shri Narayan Guru He preferred solitude and would immerse in meditation for hours on end  At the age of 21, young Nanu was sent to a famous scholar, Sri. Kummampilli Rāman Pillai Asan in Karunagapally It was during one of these days that he met a Spiritual Guru Sri. Kunjan Pillai, known as Sri.  Chattampi Swamigal. Sri. Kunjan Pillai, who discovered and appreciated Nanu Asan’s philosophy and passion for yoga, introduced him to Thycattu Ayyaavu, a ‘Hatha yogi’. Under the yogi, he mastered various Yogic practices, including Hatha Yoga. He then moved into a hermitage deep inside the hilly forests of Maruthwāmala, where he led an austere life immersed in meditative thoughts and yoga for eight long years and is believed to have attained a state of Enlightenment.  He was given the name ‘Nanarayana Guru’by his preceptor Sri. Kunjan Pillai. He continued his wanderings in quest of Truth. By and by, he came to a beautiful place called Aruvippuram a forest area There he installed a Shiva Linga which was opposed by Brahmin and other forward communities. A new phase began in the Guru’s life in 1904. He decided to give up his wandering life and settle down in a place to continue his Sadhan –a spiritual practice. He chose Shivagiri, twenty miles north of Thiruvananthapuram. Goddess ‘Amba’ became his deity of worship. In 1913, the Guru founded an Ashram at Aluva. It was called the Advaita Ashram. The Ashram was dedicated to a great principle – Om Sahodaryam Sarvatra -all human beings are equal in the eyes of God. His teaching for common people was on cleanliness, education, and equality is extremely important for societal growth. Sri Narayana Guru is a name that evokes respect – not just in Kerala – but across India and Sri Lanka as well. He propagated the ideals of compassion and religious tolerance. His writings in “Anukampadasakam” extol various religious figures such as Krishna, The Buddha, and Adi Shankara. People of all castes and communities came to realize how evolved Narayana Guru’s teachings were. Right from Ramana Maharshi, to Rabindranath Tagore, to Mahatma Gandhi, social reformers and spiritual leaders met Narayana Guru to express their shared beliefs in his works. Swamiji has initiated many projects aimed at bringing positive change on a global scale. One such initiative is the “Water Parliament” project, which seeks to address water scarcity and promote sustainable use of water resources. Sree Narayana Guru overturned the entire social system in Keraka without creating much animosity and reverse oppression. Sree Narayana Guru was a Yugpurusha. His words and actions are universal and an inspiration to the oppressed anywhere in the world, and his singular exhortation to them to gain self-respect. Guru published 45 works in Malayalam, Sanskrit, and Tamil languages which include Atmapadesa Satakam, a hundred-verse spiritual poem, and Daiva Dasakam, a universal prayer in ten verses. It teaches that true devotion surpasses private joy, aiming to please Krishna rather than the self It was he who propagated the motto, One Caste, One Religion, One God for All (Oru Jathi, Oru Matham, Oru Daivam, Manushyanu) which has become popular as a saying in Kerala. His writings still inspire people. It was in Sarada Mutt, this great social reformer attained the Samadhi –the abode of the Almighty on 20 September 1928, at the age of 73. The Shree Narayana Jayanthi, a birthday of the Guru, and the Samadhi day are befittingly celebrated in August and September respectively every year. On these days colourful processions, seminars, public meetings, cultural shows, community feasts, and special rituals are held. In the last week of December, devotees of Shree Narayana Guru donned yellow attire stream to Sivagiri from different parts of Kerala and outside, in what may be called a pilgrimage of enlightenment. Source: sphoorth

Kripalu ji Maharaj During the Kaliyuga, the present Dark Age, a growing number of imposters began misleading the public with distorted interpretations of scripture and philosophies. Scholars recognized the urgent need to identify a divine figure who possessed an unparalleled mastery over all Vedic scriptures. This figure would serve as a reliable source of accurate knowledge for spiritual seekers. They termed such an extraordinary personality as “Jagadguru.” We can put the importance of this title into perspective by acknowledging the fact that only four descended divine personalities – Adi Jagadguru Shankaracharya, Jagadguru Nimbarkacharya, Jagadguru Ramanujacharya, and Jagadguru Madhvacharya – have received the title of the original Jagadguru. On 14th January 1957, Kashi Vidvat Parishat invited Shri Kripalu ji Maharaj to deliver lectures. Kashi Vidvat Parishat was the body of 500 topmost scholars of Vedic literature who collectively represented the seat of spiritual learning. Shri Maharaj Ji spoke for ten days, revealing the secrets of the Hindu scriptures. He reconciled the apparent contradictions between the various Vedic scriptures, and the differences between the views of the previous Jagadgurus, to reveal the true path to God-realization for the welfare of all humankind. With profound admiration, the scholars accepted that his knowledge was deeper than the combined knowledge of all 500 of them put together. They unanimously acclaimed him as Jagadguru, the spiritual master of the world, and conferred various titles below upon him. Vedmargpratisthapanacharya The Vedas hold the status of being the most important scriptures in Hinduism. They are the eternal, divine words of God. Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj revealed and established the Vedic paths to God realization. Sanatanavaidikadharma – pratishthapanasatsampradaya – paramacharya With due respect to all existing philosophies and religions in the world today, Jagadguru Shri Kripaluji Maharaj established selfless devotion to Radha-Krishna as the true eternal path for individual souls to attain God realization. Shrimatpadavakya – pramanaparavarina Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj validated his teachings as the only true eternal philosophy of God by citing the Vedic Scriptures. He explained the facts in these divine scriptures using everyday examples that anyone could understand. Nikhiladarshana – samanvayacharya Jagadguru Shri Kripalu Ji Maharaj validated the philosophies of spiritual masters from the past. He also presented his own philosophy in a simple form. This philosophy reconciled contradictory viewpoints and discrepancies found in existing philosophies and scriptural teachings. The scholars further added that he was‍“Jagadguruttam,” or Supreme amongst all the Jagadgurus: Shrimat – padavaakya – pramaana – paaraavaarina – vedamaargapratisthaapanaachaaryaSanaatanavaidikadharma – pratishthaapanasatsampradaaya – paramaachaaryaNikhiladarshana – samanvayaacharyaBhaktiyoga – rasaavataaraBhagavadananta – shrivibhushitaJagadguruttam Swami Shri 1008 Kripaluji Maharaj ki Jai!! Source: jkyog,

The Alvars Saints Andal (a.k.a. Antal), daughter of Vishnu Chitta is one of greatest women saints of India along with Lalleshwari (Kashmir), Akka Mahadevi (Karnataka) and Meera (Rajasthan). She considered herself the bride of Lord Vishnu from her childhood. Tradition holds that the Lord ordered a palanquin to be sent to Andal’s house and she be brought to the temple in all bridal finery. Andal came accordingly and merged into divine body (image of Lord Vishnu). A magnificent temple at Srivilliputtur, the Andal’s birthplace, stands as an example of divine love where the famous festival takes place. Andal was a gifted poet whose compositions, Tiruppavai are sung all over South India in the month of Margashirsha. (see also: Married to God, Tiruppavai Illustrations) This Alvar Bhakti cult was quite popular when the great Acharya Ramanuja (born in 1017 A.D.) appeared on the scene. Ramanuja was a well learned, liberal philosopher and defined a new realm of Indian spirituality known as Vishishtadwaita or Qualified Monism.Scholars are not sure of the caste of other four Alvars. But all are equally held holy and worshipped. Their compositions numbering to four thousands are known as Prabandhams. Vaishnavas (including Sri Vaishnavas or Iyengars, the followers of Ramanujacharya) consider the Prabandams as holy as the Vedas. There are 215 compositions which are sung in everyday rituals. The Vaishnava teacher Nathamuni in the later years collected all available poems and hymns of Alvar saints in a monumental work Nalayira Prabandham. It is also called Anubhava Vedanta. Life And Teachings of The Alvars. Source: kamat,

Swami Adveshanand Giri “O Krishna, You are the destroyer of the poison of lust.Place Your tender lotus feet, my Lord, as an ornament on my head.” He promotes a world where people live together in harmony, free from conflict, stress In 1998, during the Haridwar Kumbh Mela, Swamiji was appointed as the head saint of Shri Panch Juna Akhada, one of the largest and most respected Hindu monastic orders. As the Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of Juna Akhada, Swamiji has provided guidance to many scholars, monks, and spiritual seekers. Swami Avdheshanand is not only a spiritual leader but also a social reformer who works tirelessly for a better world. His projects focus on rural development, including water harvesting, cultivation of barren lands, and the provision of drinking water to communities. He has played a significant role in establishing hospitals, schools, and centers for physically challenged individuals. Swamiji has initiated many projects aimed at bringing positive change on a global scale. One such initiative is the “Water Parliament” project, which seeks to address water scarcity and promote sustainable use of water resources. Swamiji is a profound thinker and philosopher He views science not as an end but as a means to create a better world. He believes in integrating science, religion, and the arts to build a unified, harmonious world. Swamiji is a member of various global religious councils and has been honored with a D. Lit for his contributions to social upliftment and the promotion of culture. Swamiji firmly believes that youth are the strength of any nation. He actively engages with young people, encouraging them to work together for the betterment of society while preserving India’s traditions, religion, and culture. Swamiji has initiated many projects aimed at bringing positive change on a global scale. One such initiative is the “Water Parliament” project, which seeks to address water scarcity and promote sustainable use of water resources. Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj continues to inspire millions with his teachings, providing guidance on the path of spirituality while encouraging societal responsibility. His efforts are dedicated to creating a world where love, compassion, and peace reign supreme.Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj, a revered spiritual leader and the Acharya Mahamandaleshwar of the Juna Akhara, stands as a beacon of ancient wisdom blended with contemporary relevance. Born on November 24, 1962, in Khurja, Uttar Pradesh, he renounced worldly life at a young age to pursue the path of spiritual realization, eventually becoming one of the most influential figures in the Hindu monastic tradition. Initiated into sannyas under the guidance of Swami Avdhoot Prakash and later mentored by Swami Satyamitranand Giri, he embraced Vedanta and Indian philosophy with profound dedication. Over the years, he has not only guided countless spiritual aspirants but has also initiated over a million monks into the order, shaping the modern identity of the Juna Akhara, the largest and most prominent of India’s monastic sects. Swami Avdheshanand Giri’s reach extends beyond religious circles—he is a leading figure in interfaith dialogue It teaches that true devotion surpasses private joy, aiming to please Krishna rather than the self At the core of his teachings lies the essence of Advaita Vedanta: the idea that true happiness and knowledge stem not from external possessions or rituals, but from realization of the eternal, unchanging Self. In addition to his spiritual leadership, he oversees several humanitarian and environmental projects through the Samanvay Seva Trust, working in areas such as education, elder care, and water conservation. His literary works—including titles like Vision of Self and The Path to Ananda—serve as guidebooks for seekers navigating the spiritual path in the modern age. Balancing inner realization with outward action, Swami Avdheshanand Giri exemplifies the ideal of the enlightened householder turned renunciate, committed not only to personal liberation but to the collective upliftment of society through compassion, knowledge, and unwavering spiritual vision. Source: mygurudevevents

Shri Jayadeva “O Krishna, You are the destroyer of the poison of lust.Place Your tender lotus feet, my Lord, as an ornament on my head.”  he decided to first take his bath, and return to his writing later. While he was taking his bath, Krishna Himself personally appeared in the form of Jayadeva, took his meal and then wrote down that very verse with His own hand. Then, while Padmavati was accepting her meal, Jayadeva returned from taking his bath in the Ganga. Padmavati was completely startled to see her husband, and Jayadeva too was surprised to see that his wife was accepting her meal before him (which is never done by Hindu wives). Finally she explained that he had already returned and taken his meal, and then gone to his room. Jayadeva went to where he had been writing and saw the verse that he had been considering whether to write or not, now composed in golden letters. With tears in his eyes and voice choked up he called out to his wife, “Padmavati! You are so fortunate! You had darshana of the Supreme Lord!” Hearing this, his guru was so pleased that he discussed about Tyagraja’s caliber with the king of Thanjavur. The King sent his men with many gifts to Tyagraja and sent an invitation to come to king’s court. The king wished that Tyagraja remains in the court and sing for him. But Tyagraja rejected King’s invitation because he only wanted to sing for his beloved God Shri Ram. Bhaktivinoda Thakura has commented that even though Sri Gauranga Deva hadn’t revealed His internal pastimes at that time, within the heart of Sri Jayadeva, Sri Bilvamangala, Sri Chandidas and Sri Vidyapati, the transcendental mood of Mahaprabhu was awakened even before He Himself actually made His appearance. “Beloved! O beautiful one, with tender, sweet speech!Please relieve me of the fatigue of my journey with your loving honor.” The Gītā‑Govinda is arranged into 12 chapters, each comprising prabandhas, which further divide into 24 ashtapadis—hymns of eight couplets each. These explore eight moods of the heroine (Ashta-nāyikā), blending human emotion with spiritual symbolism via the Radha–Krishna romance Jayadeva begins with the Dashavatara Stotra, affirming Krishna’s supreme divinity across the ten incarnations of Vishnu—establishing devotional context for the sensual sublime that follows Jayadeva’s poetry is famed for its madhura‑bhāva—sweet, devotional romance—that elevates physical longing into spiritual surrender. He explicitly warned that only those whose hearts are immersed in remembrance of Sri Hari and yearn to taste Krishna’s pastimes should engage with his text, otherwise its deeper meaning could be missed or misconstrued Between the 14th and 19th centuries, over 150 literary works were inspired directly by the Gītā‑Govinda, and thousands of manuscripts in various languages remain extant today—demonstrating its deep influence across generations and regions Even the Sikh tradition embraced Jayadeva: two of his hymns were included in the Guru Granth Sahib, where he is honored as Bhagat Jayadeva, transcending sectarian boundaries It teaches that true devotion surpasses private joy, aiming to please Krishna rather than the self It models how love transforms into spiritual surrender, a core theme in late medieval Vaisṇava bhakti. Jayadeva’s Gītā‑Govinda is a work of transcendent romance and devotion—part sensual, part spiritual, entirely divine. Through his expressive ashtapadis, he invites readers to taste the longing of Radha, the gentleness of Krishna, and the union that breaks illusion. It’s a poem to be experienced, ideally by those who can surrender in emotional depth to hear Krishna’s melody in every line Source: iskcon banglore