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Kashi Math is a matha (monastery) and a spiritual organisation followed by the Madhva section of Gaud Saraswat Brahmins, who are also referred as Madhwa Saraswat Brahmins or Vaishnava Saraswat Brahmins.[1][2] It dates back to the 16th century. With its headquarters in Brahma Ghat, Varanasi.[3][4] Kashi Math has followers all over the Konkan belt, prominently in Mumbai, Goa, Udupi, Mangalore, Kochi and other parts of Karnataka and Kerala.[5]

Key Information

Deities

[edit]

The principal deities of Kashi Math are charaprathishta ("moving installation") idols of Vyasa, Rama and Narasimha, who are also collectively known as the Vyasa Raghupathi Narasimha.[6]

Gurus

[edit]

The Kashi Math follows the Guru-shishya tradition where the Guru of the Math initiates a shishya to succeed him upon his Samadhi.[7] Samyamindra Thirtha is the 21st and current head (Mathadipathi) of the Math. The heads have been:[8]

  1. Yadavendra Thirtha -I
  2. Keshavendra Thirtha
  3. Upendra Thirtha -I
  4. Yadavendra Thirtha -II
  5. Raghavendra Thirtha
  6. Devendra Thirtha
  7. Madhavendra Thirtha
  8. Jnaneendra Thirtha
  9. Yadavendra Thirtha -III
  10. Upendra Thirtha -II
  11. Rajendra Thirtha
  12. Sureendra Thirtha
  13. Vishnu Thirtha
  14. Vibhudendra Thirtha
  15. Sumatheendra Thirtha
  16. Vasudendra Thirtha
  17. Bhuvanendra Thirtha
  18. Varadendra Thirtha
  19. Sukrathindra Thirtha
  20. Sudhindra Thirtha
  21. Samyamindra Thirtha

List of Branch Maths

[edit]
No Name Place State Address Founder Renovator
1 Varanasi Shri Kashi Math
(Headquarters)		 Varanasi Uttar Pradesh K 22/87, Brahma Ghat,
Varanasi – 221001, (UP IN)		 Cochin GSB's
AD 1540		 Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 1977
2 Prayag Shri Kashi Math Prayag Uttar Pradesh 43, Mori Dharaganj, Prayag,
Allahabad – 211 006,(UP IN)		 Shrimad Rajendra Thirtha Swamiji Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
3 Kalpi Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Bala Vyas Mandir)		 Kalpi Uttar Pradesh Vyas Tila, Vyas Nagar,
Kalpi – 285204, Jalaun Dist, (UP IN)		 – –
4 Haridwar Shri Vyas Ashram Haridwar Uttarakhand Haripur Marg, P.O. Sadhubela,
Haridwar – 249 410 (UT IN)		 Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 1988		 –
5 Badri Shri Vyas Ashram Badrinath Uttarakhand Purana Mana Road,
Badrinath – 246422 (UT IN)		 – –
6 Nagpur Shri Vyas Ashram
(Sri Venkatesh Balaji Mandir)		 Nagpur Maharashtra Plot No. 5, Phase II,Vasundara Green Farm House,
Mouza Panjari, Wardha Highway, Nagpur – 441108		 – –
7 Nasik Shri Vyas Ashram
(Sri Ramanjaneya Mandir)		 Nasik Maharashtra Kailas Nagar, Nasik – Aurangabad Road,
Nasik 422 003 (MH IN)		 Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 1994		 –
8 Dahisar Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Vittal Rukumai Mandir)		 Mumbai Maharashtra 317-B Sri Sudhindra Nagar, Dahisar (E),
Mumbai – 400068 (MH IN)		 – –
9 Walkeshwar Shri Kashi Math Mumbai Maharashtra 85, Banaganga Road, Walkeshwar,
Mumbai – 400 006, (MH IN)		 Shrimad Madhavendra Thirtha Swamiji Shrimad Sukratindra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 1937
10 Khed Shri Kashi Math Khed Maharashtra Barne Naka, Shinde Wade Jawala,N.H. 17, Post Barne,
Khed Taluk – 415 709, Ratnagiri District, (MH IN)		 Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 1995		 –
11 Goa Shri Kashi Math Goa Goa Bandora, Ponda – 403 401 (GA IN) Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 1973		 –
12 Bangalore Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Partha Sarathi Mandir)		 Bangalore Karnataka No. 14, Sri Kashi Math Road, 19th Cross
Malleshwaram, Bangalore 560055 (KA IN)		 Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 1986		 –
13 Hubli Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Venkataramana Mandir)		 Hubli Karnataka Behind Nrupathunga Hills (Venkatagiri), J.K. School Road,
Shakthi Colony, Hubli – 580032 (KA IN)		 – –
14 Bhatkal Shri Kashi Math Bhatkal Karnataka Raghunath Road, II Cross,
Bhatkal – 581320, UK District (KA IN).		 Shrimad Yadavendra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 1542		 –
15 Basrur Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Venkatramana Temple)		 Basrur Karnataka Basrur, Udupi Dist – 576 211 (KA IN) Shrimad Keshavendra Thirtha Swamiji –
16 Hemmady Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Gopinatha Temple)		 Hemmady Karnataka N.H-66, Near Bus Stand, Hemmady PO,
Kundapur Taluk – 574 203 Udupi district (KA IN)		 Shrimad Keshavendra Thirtha Swamiji –
17 Kota Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Muralidhara Krishna Temple)		 Kota Karnataka NH 66, Kota 576 211, Udupi district (KA IN) Sri Subraya Bhat & His Brothers –
18 Sasthan Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Rama Mandir)		 Sasthan Karnataka Pandeshwar village, Sasthan
Udupi district (KA IN)		 – –
19 Nayampalli Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Gopal Krishna Temple)		 Nayampalli Karnataka Nayampalli, Santhekatte-576 125,
Udupi district, (KA IN)		 – –
20 Shirva Shri Kashi Math
(Sri MahalasaNarayani Temple)		 Shirva Karnataka Post Shirva Udupi Dist -574116 (KA IN) – –
21 Karkala Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Venkataramana Temple)		 Karkala Karnataka Opp. Sri Venkataramana Temple, Car Street,
Karkala 574 104, Udupi district (KA IN)		 – Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 1969 & 1990
22 Surathkal Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Venkataramana Temple)		 Surathkal Karnataka PB No. 28, Surathkal 574 158,
DK District (KA IN)		 Shrimad Sumathindra Thirtha Swamiji Shrimad Sukratindra Thirtha Swamiji
Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
23 Konchady Shri Kashi Math
(Sri MahalasaNarayani Temple)		 Konchady Karnataka Padavinangady, Konchady P O,
Mangalore 575008, DK District (KA IN)		 Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 1967		 –
24 Bantwal Shri Kashi Math Bantwal Karnataka Opp. Sri Venkataramana Temple,
Bantwal – 574 211, DK District (KA IN)		 – –
25 Bhagamandala Shri Kashi Math Bhagamandala Karnataka Main Road, Bhagamandala 571 247,
Kodagu district (KA IN)		 – Shrimad Samyamindra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 2013
26 Manjeshwar Shri Kashi Math
(Srimad Anantheshwar Temple)		 Manjeshwar Kerala Behind Srimath Ananteshwar Temple,
Manjeshwar – 670323 (KL IN)		 – –
27 Ambalamedu Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Kuladevata Mandir Complex)		 Ambalamedu Kerala Ambalamedu Shri Kashi Math,
Ambalamedu 682 303, Ernakulam. (KL IN)		 Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 1992		 –
28 Pallipuram Shri Kashi Math
(Sri LN Raghupati Devaswom)		 Pallipuram Kerala P.O. Pallipport – 683 515
Ernakulam Dist (KL IN).		 – –
29 Alleppy Shri Kashi Math
(Venkatachalapathy Devaswom)		 Alleppy Kerala Old Thirumala Temple,
Alappuzha – 688011 (KL IN)		 – –
30 Calicut Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Panduranga Mandir)		 Kozhikode Kerala West Hill P.O. Kozhikode – 673 005 (KL IN) Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji –
31 Madras Shri Kashi Math Chennai Tamil Nadu 26, Kuppiah Chetty Street, West Mambalam,
Chennai 600 033, (TN IN).		 Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
AD 1994		 –
32 Rameshwara Shri Kashi Math Rameshwaram Tamil Nadu 101, Middle Street, Near West Gate,
Rameshwaram 623 526 (TN IN).		 King of Ramnad –
33 Tirumala Shri Kashi Math Tirupati Andhra Pradesh Tirumala Hills,
Tirumala – 517504 (AP IN)		 – –
34 Tirupati Shri Kashi Math
(Sri Gopala Krishna Mandir)		 Tirupati Andhra Pradesh No. 242, Thimma Naidu Pallyam,
Mangalam Road, Tirupati (AP IN)		 Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji
Shrimad Samyamindra Thirtha Swamiji		 –
35 Sreemath Muttah thirumala devasom
(Cherthala)		 Cherthala Cherthala Alappuzha Shrimad Madhavendra Thirtha Swamiji
– –


Internal strife

[edit]

On 7 July 1989, in accordance with the guru-shishya tradition, the then guru, Sudhindra Thirtha, initiated a follower into sanyasa so that in due course they would succeed him as the 21st guru.[9] For reasons not fully known, serious differences between Sudhindra Tirtha and his appointed successor, Raghavendra Tirtha, became apparent around 2000–2001 amidst concerns about insubordination and integrity. On 19 July 2000, the mathadipathi removed Raghavendra Tirtha from his position of successor by making use of an earlier communication from November 1999 which had requested relief from the tutelage.[10] This removal necessitated the initiation of a new shishya to succeed Sudindra Thirtha and this was done on 20 June 2002 when Samyamindra Thirtha were initiated.[9]

Thereafter the tussle among the pontiffs turned into a dispute over the control of the Kashi Math and the ownership of its many valuables and ornaments used during various religious observances. Those included about 234 pieces of jewelry and silver articles, as well as 27 idols including the main idol of Vyasa Raghupathi. Raghavendra Tirtha had possession of these items but was ordered by Court in Tirupathi to give them to Sudhindra Tirtha. The Court upheld the status of the senior pontiff and the mathadhipathi, accepted the junior's abdication and directed him to return all belongings of the math and refrain from interfering in its affairs.[citation needed]

A petition seeking a stay on the order was dismissed by the Andhra Pradesh High Court. The Supreme Court of India also confirmed the same on 2 December 2009 and upheld the High Court order recognizing Sudhendra Tirtha as mathadipadi.[11][12][13]

After months of defying various court orders, Raghavendra Tirtha absconded with the valuables and ornaments and was arrested at Kadapa in October 2011.[14][15]

Thereafter in November 2011, the 'parikaras' were handed over to Sudhindra Tirtha.[16] Samyamindra Thirtha became main disciple (patta shishya) and successor (uttaradhikari) of Kashi Math.[17]

Sudhindra Thirtha attained Vrindavan on 17 January 2016 at Vyasashram, Haridwar.[18] As per the tradition, Samyamindra Thirtha became the new head of Kashi Math and they officially took charge on 28 January 2016 at Vyasashram, Haridwar.[19] They are currently holding the 'parikaras' and offering the daily pujas.

Parihara & Punah Prathishtta Mahotsav 2012

[edit]

Punah Prathishta of Sree Vyasa Raghupathi Narasimha of Shri Kashi Math Samsthan was done at Shri Venkataramana Temple on Car Street, Mangalore on Wednesday 13 June 2012.[20]

The Punah Prathishta ceremony had begun on 9 June 2012 under the guidance of Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji, Mathadhipati of Shree Kashi Math Samsthan and their Patta Shishya Shrimad Samyamindra Thirtha Swamiji, who jointly conducted the rituals of the re-installation of the idol of Shri Vyasa Raghupati, the presiding deities of Shree Kashi Math Samsthan, at the Math Premises (Sri Sudhindra Sabha Sadan) in S.V Temple at the Karkataka Lagnam at 8:45 a.m.

These rituals included the Panchamrutha Abhisheka to Shri Vyasa, Raghupathi and Lord Narasimha. 108 aavarthane pavamana kalashabhisheka, gangadhi sapthaha teerthabhisheka, sanidhya Havana, mahapurnahuthi, and muhurtha nireekshane. Around 50,000 devotees, along with thousands of volunteers, took part in rituals such as prasanna puja, astamangala nireekshana, patta Kanika and other such rituals. As part of these rituals, devotees made offerings to Hari Gurus and received prasadam and blessings.[21]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Kashi Math

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from Grokipedia
Kashi Math, formally known as Shree Kashi Math Samsthan, is a revered (monastery) and spiritual institution primarily serving the Gowda (GSB) community, which follows the philosophy of the 13th-century philosopher . Established in 1542 CE at Brahma along the banks of the in (ancient Kashi), , , it functions as a center for Vedic learning, religious rituals, sanyasa (ascetic) traditions, and community guidance, emphasizing the worship of deities including Shri Veda Vyasa, Raghupati (), and . The foundation of Kashi Math stems from the efforts of Sri Vijayeendra Tirtha, a prominent sanyasi in the Madhva lineage and disciple of Sri Surendra Tirtha (himself a disciple of Sri ), who sought to revive Sanatana and Bhagavata principles among GSBs displaced from their Saraswat homeland due to historical invasions. In 1539–1540, during his observance in , Vijayeendra Tirtha planned the , securing land purchased by GSB of Cochin and installing idols provided by his , Sri Surendra Tirtha; he formally initiated Sri Yadavendra Tirtha as the first via a copper plate inscription dated January 21, 1542. This establishment marked a pivotal shift for GSBs, who were originally adherents of Advaita or Vaishnava traditions, towards embracing Madhvacharya's dualistic theology, with the matha authorizing mantras, ceremonies, and spiritual practices for the community. Under the leadership of its successive pontiffs, known as Swamijis, Kashi Math has evolved into a network of approximately 35 branches spanning , from Rameshwaram and in the south to and in the north, facilitating education through systems, charitable trusts, and annual observances like Punyatithi Aradhana. The current 21st , H.H. Shrimad Swamiji (born September 12, 1982), ascended to the position in 2016 upon the direction of his predecessor, H.H. Shrimad Sudhindra Thirtha Swamiji, and continues to uphold the matha's role in propagation, worship, and social welfare initiatives for GSBs as of 2025. The institution remains a cornerstone of GSB identity, blending spiritual authority with administrative oversight in a tradition unbroken since its inception.

History

Founding

Kashi Math, a prominent religious institution of the Goud Saraswat Brahmin community, was established on January 21, 1542 AD, as authorized by a copper plate inscription issued by Shrimath Surendra Tirtha, the pontiff of the Math. This document, written in script using language, granted Shrimath Yadavendra Tirtha the authority to perform religious rites and established the math as a spiritual center in . The founding was marked by the initiation of Yadavendra Tirtha into sanyasa by Shrimath Vijayendra Tirtha, who served as the key founder and earned the title Saraswath Dharma Peetha Sthapanacharya for his role. The establishment was motivated by a request from the Cochin Saraswat Brahmins (GSB), who sought a dedicated peetha and to guide their community spiritually. During his Chaturmasa observance in around 1539-1540 AD, Shrimath Vijayendra Tirtha, born circa 1517 AD, identified a suitable disciple—originally named Hanumantha Bhat—and initiated him as Yadavendra Tirtha at in 1542. Vijayendra Tirtha had been trained extensively under Vyasaraja Tirtha in 64 disciplines and later succeeded his Shrimath Surendra Tirtha at the Math, which provided the doctrinal foundation for the new institution. The math's origin is deeply rooted in , particularly the avatar of , where the deity's third step measured the universe, with 's sanctity enhanced by the Ganga River originating from 's toe. The initial location was at Brahma Ghat on the banks of the Ganga in , with the land purchased by the GSB community to serve as the spiritual hub. This initiation of the first pontiff laid the groundwork for the subsequent guru parampara.

Early Development

Following its establishment in 1542, Kashi Math experienced significant early consolidation through key events that strengthened its institutional base. In 1545 AD, Shrimath Vijayendra Tirtha, the preceptor who initiated the math's founding, defeated a Veerashaiva guru in a public debate on Shastras in . As per the agreed terms, this victory resulted in the transfer of the Veerashaiva Math's property to the Madhwa tradition, bolstering resources for the allied Kumbakonam math and, by extension, supporting the nascent Kashi Math's operations. The math quickly evolved into a central dharma peetha for the Goud Saraswat Brahmin (GSB) community, serving as a guiding on religious and ethical matters while promoting studies and the preservation of Hindu . It established a system as a center for Vedic , where students underwent rigorous in shastras under the guidance of sanyasis, fostering intellectual and spiritual growth aligned with Vaishnavite principles. This role was rooted in the math's philosophical ties to Madhwacharya's Dvaita tradition, which Vijayendra Tirtha propagated through his lineage to uplift the GSB samaj. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the math underwent notable expansion, driven by generous donations from the GSB community, which funded the construction of temples and pilgrim accommodations in Varanasi. For instance, under successive pontiffs, properties like Nepal Chowk were acquired with community support, enhancing the math's presence along the Ganga. A key development was the installation of the Lakshmi Narasimha idol in the moola math premises by the fifth pontiff, Shrimad Raghavendra Tirtha, around the early 18th century, enriching the site's devotional core alongside the existing charaprathishta idols of Vyasa and Rama. These efforts integrated the math more deeply with Madhwa traditions from Vijayendra Tirtha's lineage, solidifying its status as a enduring spiritual hub.

Religious Significance

Deities and Worship

The principal deities of Shree Kashi Math Samsthan are the charaprathishta (movable installation) idols of Shri , Shri (Lord Rama), and Shri in his Ugra (fierce) form, collectively revered as Shri Vyasa-Raghupati-Narasimha. These idols serve as the central focus of devotion within the , embodying core elements of the tradition. The idols of Veda and Shri Raghupati, along with a shalagrama, were provided by Shrimath Surendra Thirtha and installed by Shrimath Vijayendra Thirtha for Shrimath Yadavendra Thirtha during the founding of the in 1542 for daily worship. The idol was added later in 1569 by Shrimath Vijayendra Thirtha during a visit to Mulki, where it was placed in the Shri Venkataramana Temple as part of establishing the samsthan's presence among the community. Worship of these deities follows the Agama Shastra and is conducted personally by the swamijis of the matha three times daily—morning, noon, and evening. The rituals involve offerings of flowers, fruits, and incense, recitation of Vedic chants, and meticulous maintenance of the idols, which are treated as living symbols of dharma to uphold the samsthan's spiritual discipline. These deities hold profound significance, with Shri Veda Vyasa representing divine knowledge and scriptural authority, Shri Raghupati symbolizing ideals of righteousness and devotion, and Shri Narasimha embodying protective power against adharma. Their charaprathishta nature allows portability, enabling the swamijis to carry and install them in branch institutions during travels, ensuring continuity of worship. Parivara (attendant) deities, including Shri Mukhyaprana (Hanuman), accompany the principal idols in rituals to invoke holistic divine protection.

Philosophical Tradition

Kashi Math adheres to the philosophy established by the 13th-century philosopher , which identifies as the supreme, independent reality controlling all existence. This doctrinal foundation underscores the math's role as a primary promoter of tailored to the spiritual needs of the (GSB) community, fostering devotion to as the ultimate deity. Founded under the guidance of Vijayendra Tirtha, a prominent propagator of Madhwa thought, the math continues to uphold these principles as a central institution for GSB adherents. At the core of this tradition lie key tenets that differentiate Dvaita from other schools, including the eternal, irreducible distinctions between (Vishnu), individual (jivas), and inert matter (jada or prakriti). are atomic, eternally dependent on , and graded in a based on their intrinsic qualities, with liberation achievable only through 's grace. The philosophy places profound emphasis on , or loving devotion to Vishnu, as the primary path to salvation, complemented by jnana (knowledge) derived from the authoritative scriptures of Vedavyasa, such as the and . Contemplation on the noble qualities of , an avatar of Vishnu exemplifying ideal righteousness and devotion, further reinforces these teachings, inspiring ethical living and surrender to the divine. Within the GSB community, Kashi Math functions as an enduring abode of , safeguarding and disseminating Madhwa ideals through scholarly discourse and moral guidance. Its sanyasis embody the philosophy's ethos of renunciation (), serving as wandering monks who travel to propagate teachings while upholding () and deep scriptural study under supervision. This role ensures the preservation of Vaishnava principles, providing a spiritual anchor that integrates philosophical inquiry with communal ethical standards. Distinct traditions reinforce these doctrinal commitments, such as the Chaturmas Vrata, during which sanyasis observe a four-month period of residence (from to Kartika) dedicated to intensified austerities, teaching, and scriptural exposition. Sanyas deeksha, the initiation into monastic life, involves elaborate rituals over two days, including the symbolic plucking of hair and donning of robes to signify complete detachment from worldly ties. Upon a sanyasi's passing, the custom honors their through the installation of a idol and Tulsi plant at the site, or in , a jala samadhi in the , symbolizing eternal union with the divine.

Organization and Leadership

Guru Parampara

The Guru Parampara of Shree Kashi Math Samsthan represents the unbroken lineage of pontiffs who have upheld the tradition among the Madhva section of Gaud Saraswat Brahmins since the institution's founding. Established around 1542 AD, the parampara commences with Shrimath Yadavendra Tirtha I as the inaugural pontiff, initiated into sanyasa by Shrimath of the Raghvendra Math at the request of the in Cochin to counter local religious challenges. Vijayindra Tirtha, a renowned dialectician, had previously secured a significant victory in a theological against a Veerashaiva scholar in 1542, which facilitated the math's establishment and affirmed Dvaita principles in the region. To date, the lineage comprises 21 pontiffs, each contributing to the math's philosophical dissemination, institutional expansions, and community leadership. The succession process adheres strictly to the guru-shishya parampara, a core tenet of the Madhva tradition, wherein the reigning pontiff identifies and initiates a worthy disciple into sanyasa, imparting esoteric knowledge and authority. Upon the guru's mukti—attainment of spiritual liberation—the shishya ascends as the new Mathadhipati, ensuring continuity in worship, teachings, and governance. This methodical transmission has preserved the math's focus on devotion to Lord Krishna (as Moola Ramachandra) and scholarly engagement, with pontiffs often traveling to establish branches and resolve doctrinal disputes. Early pontiffs like Shrimath Keshavendra Tirtha (2nd) and Shrimath Upendra Tirtha I (3rd) consolidated the math's presence in through rigorous scriptural studies and temple endowments, laying foundations for its enduring influence. Subsequent leaders, including Shrimath Yadavendra Tirtha II (4th), expanded outreach by authoring commentaries on Madhva texts and fostering alliances with other Dvaita institutions. In the 18th and 19th centuries, figures such as Shrimath Jnanendra Tirtha (8th) and Shrimath Rajendra Tirtha (11th) played pivotal roles in community leadership, mediating regional conflicts and promoting Vedic education amid socio-political upheavals. Shrimath Vibhudendra Tirtha (14th), a proficient scholar born in 1782, furthered these efforts by installing deities in affiliated temples and navigating 19th-century institutional challenges, thereby strengthening the math's administrative framework. The following table enumerates the parampara up to the 19th pontiff in the mid-20th century, highlighting notable contributions where documented:
OrderPontiff NameSamadhi YearKey Contributions
1Shrimath Yadavendra Tirtha I1608Founded the math; established core rituals and community ties in .
2Shrimath Keshavendra Tirtha1670Authored philosophical treatises; initiated expansions in southern branches.
3Shrimath Upendra Tirtha I1674Strengthened scriptural scholarship; oversaw early temple renovations.
4Shrimath Yadavendra Tirtha II1711Promoted inter-math dialogues; contributed to Dvaita literature.
5Shrimath 1725Led community welfare initiatives; traveled extensively for propagation.
6Shrimath Devendra Tirtha1740Received royal sanads; facilitated land grants for math properties.
7Shrimath Madhavendra Tirtha1775Enhanced Vedic programs; resolved local doctrinal debates.
8Shrimath Jnanendra TirthaAuthored commentaries on ; guided ethical reforms.
9Shrimath Yadavendra Tirtha III1773Oversaw administrative consolidations; promoted pilgrimage sites.
10Shrimath Upendra Tirtha II1791Expanded branch networks; emphasized guru-shishya training.
11Shrimath Rajendra Tirtha1799Mediated community disputes; advanced temple endowments.
12Shrimath Sureendra Tirtha1831Fostered scholarly assemblies; documented math traditions.
13Shrimath Vishnu Tirtha1831Supported ritual standardization; aided in crisis management.
14Shrimath Vibhudendra Tirtha1834Installed temple idols; navigated institutional transitions as a scholar.
15Shrimath Sumathindra Tirtha1851Promoted ethical leadership; contributed to philosophical discourses.
16Shrimath Vasudendra Tirtha1859Enhanced community outreach; preserved archival records.
17Shrimath Bhuvanendra Tirtha1886Led expansions in ; resolved regional leadership issues.
18Shrimath Varadendra Tirtha1914Authored devotional works; strengthened ties with global .
19Shrimath Sukrathindra Tirtha1949Modernized administrative practices; focused on post-independence revival.

Current Leadership

The current leadership of Shree Kashi Math Samsthan is headed by H.H. Shrimat Samyamindra Tirtha Shripadaru, the 21st and Mathadipathi, who ascended to the position on January 28, 2016, following the of his predecessor, Shrimat Shripadaru. He oversees all spiritual, legal, and administrative affairs of the samsthan, serving as the ultimate authority on for the Gowda Saraswat Brahmin (GSB) community, including the management of affiliated temples and branch institutions. Kashi Math operates under a guru-shishya parampara tradition, where the Mathadipathi holds centralized authority, though historically a dual model with a senior and junior has been employed to ensure continuity; at present, Samyamindra Tirtha Shripadaru manages daily operations, community engagement, and institutional governance single-handedly. Under his guidance, the samsthan maintains a structured approach to GSB spiritual matters, emphasizing adherence to Dvaita philosophy and ritual practices across its network. Recent initiatives under his leadership include the promotion of Vedic education through the S.S.N. Pathashala, a gurukula-style Veda Pathashala that provides free three-year courses in Vedic studies, , and auxiliary subjects to train future scholars and priests. The math has also expanded digital outreach via its official website and channels to facilitate global community participation in events, share philosophical teachings, and book sevas, thereby bridging traditional practices with modern accessibility. Preservation efforts encompass annual observances such as Chaturmasa Vratha and temple renovations, ensuring the continuity of rituals and for the GSB .

Branch Institutions

Overview of Branches

The branch institutions of Kashi Math extend the central peetha's functions by promoting the preservation and propagation of Madhva's Dvaita philosophy and Vedic traditions among the Gowda Saraswat Brahmin (GSB) community. These branches facilitate localized spiritual guidance, reinforcing the math's role as a guru parampara that upholds prathishtapana and prachara. Organizationally, Kashi Math maintains approximately 35 branches across , each governed under the authority of the central Samsthan in but administered by local swamijis who oversee daily operations. This structure ensures decentralized management while maintaining doctrinal unity, with branches serving as free boarding houses that provide accommodation and support for GSB pilgrims undertaking religious journeys and students pursuing traditional education. The historical development of these branches traces back to the , coinciding with the migrations of GSB communities from their original settlements, which necessitated localized spiritual centers to sustain community cohesion. The branches began to develop under subsequent pontiffs starting in the , evolving to address the needs of GSB populations, particularly in the Konkan belt regions encompassing areas like , , and , where they became integral to cultural and religious continuity. In terms of functions, branches host observances during the season, where swamijis engage in austerities, discourses, and community interactions to foster devotion. They also conduct sanyas initiations for disciples, ensuring the continuity of the lineage, and organize festivals such as Jayanti and to celebrate key deities. Additionally, these institutions support education through vidyashalas and welfare programs, while maintaining portable murthis of deities like Vedavyasa, Raghupati, and for temporary installations that enable widespread local worship and processions.

Key Branch Locations

Kashi Math maintains a network of branch institutions across , spanning from the coast in the west to the Himalayan foothills in the north and southern pilgrimage centers in the east. These branches, numbering over 30, serve as regional centers for the community, with major ones concentrated in , , , and . Key branches include the following major locations, each situated in areas of historical or spiritual importance:
  • Alleppy Shri Kashi Math (, ): Located on Old Thirumala Road in the Mullakkal area, this branch traces its ties to the Cochin region's early GSB settlements and supports community rituals in central .
  • Badri Shri Kashi Math (, ): Positioned on Purana Mana Road near the , one of the pilgrimage sites, it facilitates GSB devotees' access to high-altitude rituals and accommodations during yatras to the .
  • Bantwal Shri Kashi Math (, ): Situated in the district along the coastal belt, it serves as a hub for local GSB observances in southern .
  • Bhatkal Shri Kashi Math (, ): Found on Raghunath Road in district, proximate to ancient temples like the Adi and Venkataramana shrines, this branch hosts annual Vasanthotsava festivals celebrating spring rituals.
  • Hubli Shri Kashi Math (, ): Located in the of northern , it extends the Math's presence inland from the coastal origins.
  • Sasthan Shri Kashi Math (Sasthan, ): Positioned in the , this coastal branch supports GSB traditions in the heart of the region.
  • Basrur Shri Kashi Math (, ): Near the Sri Venkatramana Temple in Kundapura taluk of , it organizes Vasanthotsava and Sahasra Kumbhabhisheka events for community participation.
  • Rameshwaram Shri Kashi Math (, ): Established as a branch in one of the four sacred Dhams, adjacent to the , it enables GSB-specific rituals at this southern pilgrimage endpoint, connecting devotees from Kashi to the .
Other notable branches include those in Baroda (Gujarat), Bangalore (Karnataka), and Haridwar (Uttarakhand), further illustrating the Math's extensive geographic reach across pilgrimage corridors and urban centers.

Controversies and Events

Internal Strife

During the 19th century, Kashi Math experienced significant internal strife following the tenure of its 14th pontiff, Shrimad Vibhudendra Tirtha, who passed away around 1834. Vibhudendra Tirtha had initiated two disciples: the elder, Shrimad Sumathindra Tirtha, and the younger, Shrimad Vasudendra Tirtha. A dispute arose between the two over succession and the management of the Math's properties, leading Vasudendra Tirtha to demand a division of all movable and immovable assets, as well as the division of the Math's followers. This conflict escalated to the point where Vasudendra Tirtha filed a suit in the Calicut court, which decreed the partition, recognizing both as legal heirs. The crisis persisted until 1851, when Sumathindra Tirtha initiated a minor disciple, Shrimad Bhuvanendra Tirtha, as his successor in 1849 and attained videha mukti (spiritual liberation) on January 31, 1851. Vasudendra Tirtha subsequently abandoned his claim for division, assuming the role of guardian to the young Bhuvanendra Tirtha and relinquishing his rights to the properties in favor of the minor . This resolution preserved the unity of Kashi Math without fragmentation, though the episode highlighted tensions in the guru-shishya parampara governing succession. Vasudendra Tirtha himself attained on May 16, 1859, ensuring continuity under the central lineage. In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, another major conflict emerged involving the removal of junior pontiff (born Shivananda Pai) in 2000. Initiated into sanyasa by the 21st pontiff, , in 1989, Raghavendra Tirtha was appointed deputy but faced allegations of violating the guru-shishya tradition through acts of rebellion and indiscipline, including claims of supreme authority over the Math. On July 19, 2000, Sudhindra Tirtha formally divested him of all rights, obligations, and responsibilities, adopting Shrimad Samyamindra Tirtha as the new successor instead. This decision, prompted by petitions from 112 community members questioning Raghavendra Tirtha's conduct, ignited prolonged legal battles over succession, property control, and Math administration. The disputes intensified with Raghavendra Tirtha's alleged absconding in March 2011 with valuables worth crores, including 27 antique idols, 234 jewelry pieces, and over 100 saligramas, prompting multiple arrests, including one in that year where only partial recoveries were made. Legal proceedings culminated in rulings favoring the central Math: the in March 2009 declared as the rightful Mathadhipati and ordered to vacate and return properties, a decision upheld by the in December 2009. Further, in 2015, the entrusted the (CBI) with locating him amid property claims, leading to searches in 2016 at ashrams in and . In March 2017, CBI located him in , , and produced him before the Ernakulam Chief Judicial , where he confirmed his identity and claimed he had left the state for penance; however, the cases continued without full resolution of the disputes. The CBI issued a notice with a Rs 1 lakh reward. By 2023, additional courts, including in Ernakulam, declared him a proclaimed offender for non-compliance, a status reaffirmed by the Ernakulam on June 11, 2025. These outcomes reinforced the integrity of the parampara, with courts emphasizing that succession adheres strictly to the guru-disciple lineage without external disruptions. The conflicts fractured unity within the Gowda Saraswat Brahmin (GSB) community, leading to social boycotts of Raghavendra Tirtha's supporters and widespread disgrace of him as a traitor to the sacred guru-shishya tradition. Mainstream GSB organizations, such as the GSB All Temples Association, condemned the , which eroded community trust and participation in Math activities. In July 2016, Raghavendra Tirtha's followers organized a at Manjeshwar's Srimath Anantheshwara Temple, issuing calls for truce and reunification between him and Samyamindra Tirtha to heal the divisions, though no agreement was reached despite prior mediation attempts. Despite these efforts, court-mandated restorations and the emphasis on parampara fidelity have sustained the central Math's authority, mitigating further fragmentation.

2012 Re-consecration Festival

The 2012 Parihara & Punah Prathishta Mahotsav was a major religious celebration organized by Shri Kashi Math Samsthan to perform (parihara) and re-consecration (punah prathishta) of its presiding deities, including Shri Raghupati and idols. Held at the math's headquarters in , the event served as a restorative measure following past internal disturbances, such as disputes over control and idol possession that had disrupted the institution's in the preceding years. The purpose of the mahotsav was to invoke , reaffirm the spiritual sanctity of the math, and heal divisions within the community by ritually restoring the deities' presence and authority. Under the leadership of senior , who guided the proceedings, junior Samyamindra Tirtha conducted the core rituals as part of his role in the guru parampara. This atonement-focused initiative addressed the aftermath of conflicts, including legal battles over the math's administration and relics, thereby aiming to unify devotees and preserve the Dvaita tradition's legacy. The multi-day festival featured elaborate Vedic rituals, including prana pratishtapana (infusion of life force), kalasha abhisheka (sacred pot consecration), and mahapuja (grand worship), alongside vibrant processions carrying the idols through Varanasi's sacred sites. Community participation was extensive, with devotees from branch institutions across joining in bhajans, discourses, and feasts, fostering a sense of collective devotion and . The ceremonies, spanning June 2012 during the Chaturmasa observance, emphasized the math's philosophical roots in Madhva teachings on devotion and pratishtapana (establishment of righteousness). The outcomes of the mahotsav significantly bolstered bonds, restoring confidence in the math's and traditions while marking a turning point in resolving lingering tensions from the strife. It established an annual vardhanti (anniversary) observance of the re-consecration, with subsequent celebrations reinforcing the event's enduring impact on the samsthan's spiritual vitality.

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