The recent tribute paid by the Prime Minister on Shivakumara Swamigalu’s (Swami Ji) Jayanti gives us a reason to look in-depth into this prominent Lingayat scholar, educator, and spiritual leader’s life. His life journey, contributions to society, and his role as the head of the Siddaganga Matha makes him a significant figure to be remembered.
Birth and Early Life
Shivakumara Swamiji was born on 1st April, 1907, in the village of Veerapura, Ramanagara District of Karnataka. Initially named Shivanna, he showed an interest in religion from an early age, often accompanying his parents to religious centers. He completed his elementary education in his birth village and proceeded to Nagavalli for middle school. During this time, he also became a resident student at Siddaganga Math, an ancient ashram fostering a continuous line of illustrious “Shiva Yogi Siddapurushas”, established by Sree Gosala Siddeshwara Swamiji in 15th century A.D.
Educational Achievements
In 1930, he earned a bachelor’s degree in arts from Central College in Bangalore and developed proficiency in English, Kannada, and Sanskrit. His learning did not go unnoticed, and in 1965, he was awarded an honorary Doctor of Literature degree by Karnataka University.
Spiritual Journey
His spiritual journey began when he entered the monk’s order or viraktashram at Siddaganga Math on 3rd March, 1930. Known as ‘Nadedaaduva Devaru’ (the Walking God) amongst his followers, he was considered the incarnation of Basaveshwara, a 12th-century social reformer who accepted all irrespective of their religion or caste.
Social Work and Contributions
He founded 132 institutions for education and training, providing free shelter, food, and education to children. Under his guidance, an annual agricultural fair was held to assist local people. In addition to this, visitors and pilgrims coming to the Math also received free food. His prominent contribution to society also includes founding the Sri Siddaganga Education Society.
Awards and Honours
In recognition of his significant contributions, he was awarded the Karnataka Ratna (the highest civilian award in Karnataka) in 2007 and the Padma Bhushan (the third-highest civilian award in India) in 2015.
Death
Swamiji passed away on 21st January 2019 due to multiple infections, at the ripe age of almost 112 years.
Lingayats
Lingayats are followers of the 12th-century social reformer-philosopher poet, Basaveshwara, who opposed the caste system and Vedic rituals. They are monotheists, worshiping only one God, Linga (Shiva). The term ‘Lingayat’ refers to a person who wears a personal linga on their body, which they receive during the initiation ceremony. This community’s Veerashaivas sect also worships Shiva idols and practices other Hindu customs.