Shankaracharyas must bless Ram Temple, not criticise, says Union minister Rane

[Parveen Komal]

Union Minister Narayan Rane's recent comments regarding the Shankaracharyas and the Ayodhya Ram Mandir have ignited a fresh controversy. Rane criticized the spiritual leaders for raising concerns about the consecration ceremony, accusing them of viewing the issue through a "political prism". He further questioned their contributions to Hinduism and asserted that their disapproval stemmed from opposition to Prime Minister Modi and the BJP.

This statement sparked immediate reactions, with several Hindu groups and opposition parties condemning Rane's remarks. Critics argue that questioning the Shankaracharyas' spiritual authority and belittling their contributions is disrespectful and dismissive of their vital role in Hinduism. They also highlight the right to dissent and disagree with the government's actions, regardless of the issue's religious significance.

Rane's comments undoubtedly add a layer of complexity to the already charged atmosphere surrounding the Ram Mandir consecration. Whether his assertions hold merit or are politically motivated remains to be seen. However, they unquestionably add fuel to the ongoing debate about the role of Hindu leaders, the separation of religion and politics, and the future of the Ayodhya issue.

[Parveen Komal]

Therefore, the complete list of the four Shankaracharyas skipping the Ayodhya inauguration is:

Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati (Jyotir Math)
Shankaracharya Swami Shri Nischalananda Saraswati (Govardhan Math)
Shankaracharya Swami Bharati Teerth (Sringeri Sharada Peetham)
Shankaracharya Swami Sadananda Saraswati (Dwarka Sharada Peetham



Their reasons for opting out varied, but some of the commonly cited concerns included:

• Violation of religious scriptures: They believed the inauguration was being held before the temple construction was fully complete, which went against Hindu rituals and traditions.
• Politicalization of the event: They felt the ceremony was being used for political gain, potentially overshadowing the spiritual significance of the occasion.

Dignity of their position: Some Shankaracharyas expressed discomfort with the nature of the ceremony and felt their presence would be reduced to mere spectators.

[Parveen Komal]

It's important to note that the reasons for their decision are complex and vary from individual to individual. Some have cited concerns about religious protocol, while others have expressed reservations about the political nature of the event. It's important to respect their individual choices and understand that their decision is not necessarily a reflection on their personal views regarding the Ram Mandir itself.

1. Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati: He is the head of Jyotir Math in Uttarakhand and reportedly the one who first announced the collective decision of all four Shankaracharyas not to attend.
2. Shankaracharya Swami Shri Nischalananda Saraswati: He is the head of Govardhan Math in Puri and expressed concerns about the ceremony being held before the temple's complete construction
3. Shankaracharya Swami Bharati Teerth: He is the head of Sringeri Sharada Peetham in Karnataka and, while denying any opposition to the ceremony, emphasized that he wouldn't participate due to conflicting obligations.
4. Shankaracharya Swami Sadananda Saraswati: He is the head of Dwarka Sharada Peetham in Gujarat and similarly clarified that his absence wasn't out of disapproval but due to existing commitments.

[Parveen Komal]

Read the full story about Shankaracharya

https://www.voteindia.com/comment-analysis/the-four-pillars-of-wisdom-a-deep-dive-into-the-lives-and-teachings-of-indias-revered-shankaracharyas

[harpreetkaur]

Adi Shankaracharya, also known simply as Shankara, was an influential philosopher and theologian who lived in the early 8th century CE.

Key points about Adi Shankaracharya:

• Philosophical Influence:

Adi Shankaracharya is renowned for consolidating the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta, emphasizing the non-dual nature of reality (Brahman) and the individual self (Atman).
His teachings aimed to reconcile and systematize various strands of Vedic thought.

• Life and Travels:

Shankara is believed to have been born in Kaladi, Kerala, India.
He is said to have traveled extensively across the Indian subcontinent to engage in philosophical debates and promote his teachings.

• Commentaries and Writings:

Adi Shankaracharya wrote extensive commentaries on the major Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Brahma Sutras, providing interpretations from the Advaita Vedanta perspective.
His works have had a profound impact on Hindu philosophy and spirituality.

• Mathas:

Adi Shankaracharya established four mathas in different parts of India, each associated with one of the cardinal directions (North, South, East, West).
These mathas serve as centers of learning, meditation, and religious leadership.

• Bhaja Govindam:

Shankara is also credited with composing devotional hymns, including the famous "Bhaja Govindam," which emphasizes the impermanence of life and the importance of devotion to God.

• Legacy:

Adi Shankaracharya's teachings continue to influence Hindu philosophy, and his legacy is celebrated during the Shankara Jayanti festival.
His emphasis on the unity of Atman and Brahman remains a key aspect of Advaita Vedanta.

Adi Shankaracharya's impact on Hindu philosophy, particularly the Advaita Vedanta tradition, has endured for centuries, and his teachings continue to be studied and revered by followers of this philosophical school.