Swami Nischalananda Saraswati is the 145th Jagadguru Shankaracharya of the Purvamnaya Govardhana Peetham of Puri, have a look at his age and education
Swami Nischalananda Saraswati stands as a polarizing figure. He gained notoriety for his outspoken views that often spark controversy. His demand for India to be declared a Hindu Rashtra and his stance on issues like caste and gender equality have fueled debates and drawn both criticism and support.
Who is Puri Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati as he refuses to attend Ram Mandir inaugration, biography, age and education
According to Shankaracharya Swami Shri Nischalananda Saraswati of Purvaamnaya Govardhanmath Puri peeth, “the government’s endeavour is not based around building a sacred temple but, in his words, a tomb.” So, he has denied to participate in the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha initiative.
80-year-old Swami Nischalananda Saraswati was born in Darbhanga in 1943 to Pandit Sri Lalvamshi Jha and his mother was Smt Gita Devi. Saraswati’s early years were marked by an academic journey that took him through Vedic mathematics at Tibbia College and studies in shastras across various renowned locations such as Kashi, Vrindavan, Naimisaranya, and Shringeri. However, it is his later public statements and actions that have thrust him into the spotlight.
Swami Nischalananda Saraswati, 145th Jagadguru Shankaracharya, won't attend #RamTemple inauguration by PM Modi, questioning the role of dharmacharyas if political leaders perform consecrations.
Raises concerns about blending politics and religion.Will RSS & BJP hear ? #Ayodhya pic.twitter.com/2vKnKpc5Ee— Manickam Tagore .B🇮🇳மாணிக்கம் தாகூர்.ப (@manickamtagore) January 10, 2024
One recurring theme in Saraswati’s discourse is his advocacy for declaring India a Hindu Rashtra. His association with events such as the Prakatyotsav where he publicly resolved to turn India into a Hindu Rashtra, has been widely covered by right-wing media. This, coupled with his participation in a Sant Sammellan to discuss countering Islamic jihad, has led to concerns about the potential divisiveness of his views.
Saraswati’s controversial statements extend beyond political aspirations. His views on the caste system have raised eyebrows, particularly his categorization of ‘alternative castes’ and assertions that non-Brahmins and non-Kshatriyas entering fields like education and the army negatively impact these sectors.
Such perspectives contribute to ongoing discussions on social inclusion and perpetuate stereotypes, causing discomfort among those advocating for a more egalitarian society.
Controversy has not been new to Saraswati’s leadership. In 1994, Odisha Law Minister Narasingha Mishra challenged his succession, presenting government files and documents to accuse Saraswati of wrongfully usurping the Shankaracharya’s mantle. This incident highlights the complex dynamics surrounding his leadership, adding a layer of skepticism to his position.
Saraswati’s controversial legacy extends to issues of gender equality. A reported sexist comment about women not having religious sanction to recite the Vedas sparked outrage and brought into question his commitment to inclusivity. Such statements contribute to the ongoing dialogue on the role of women in religious practices and institutions.
Critics argue that Saraswati’s views perpetuate division and exclusion, particularly with his emphasis on religion-based nationhood and the caste system. Organizations like Citizens for Justice and Peace (CJP) actively monitor instances of hate speech, expressing concerns about the impact of divisive rhetoric on societal harmony.
Modi Ji will perform the unveiling ceremony of Lord Ram's statue in Ayodhya, and I will be there clapping and cheering for him?
Swami Nischalananda Saraswati, Shankaracharya of Govardhanmatth Puripeethadheeshwar, says he will not go to Ayodhya. #AyodhyaRamMandir pic.twitter.com/wIPyAZdmal
— @Moini (@moini_565) January 4, 2024