Recently, the Vice President of India virtually launched “Not Many, But One”, an English translation of poems by Sree Narayana Gurudev. Gurudev’s teachings continue to resonate today, highlighting his importance as a spiritual figure and social reformer.
Early Life and Education of Sree Narayana Guru
Born on 22nd August, 1856 to Madan Asan and Kuttiyamma in Chempazhanthy, a village near Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, Sree Narayana Guru belonged to the Ezhava caste. Despite societal discrimination due to his ‘avarna’ caste status, he was known for his love of solitude and deep contemplation. A devotee at local temples, he composed hymns and devotional songs from an early age and was drawn towards asceticism, leading to him living as a hermit in a forest for eight years. During this time he learned about Vedas, Upanishads, literature, logical rhetoric of Sanskrit, Hatha Yoga, and other philosophies.
Sree Narayana Guru’s Stand Against Caste Injustice
Sree Narayana Guru made a significant impact on society with his stand against caste injustice. He championed the slogan “One Caste, One Religion, One God for All” (Oru Jathi, Oru Matham, Oru Daivam, Manushyanu). In 1888, he built a Shiva temple at Aruvippuram, against the caste-based restrictions of the time. At Kalavancode, he created a unique temple with mirrors instead of idols, symbolizing his belief that divinity exists within each individual.
Opposition to Forced Conversions
While promoting equality, Sree Narayana Guru opposed the exploitation of societal inequalities to carry out forced religious conversions. To counter this issue, particularly within the Ezhava community, he organized an All-Region Conference in 1923 at Alwaye Advaita Ashram.
Philosophy and Literary Contributions
Gurudev became one of the greatest proponents and re-evaluators of Advaita Vedanta (the principle of non-duality put forward by Adi Shankara). He was also a prolific writer, with several books to his name. Some of these include Advaitha Deepika, Asrama, and Thevarappathinkangal.
Role in National Movement
Sree Narayana Guru played a vital role in social reform, spearheading the movement for universal temple entry and opposing social discrimination against untouchables. His efforts in pushing for the Vaikom agitation, aimed at temple entry for lower castes, garnered nationwide attention, earning appreciation from Mahatma Gandhi.
Contribution to Science
Gurudev was not only spiritually inclined but also had a keen interest in science. He highlighted the importance of cleanliness, education, agriculture, trade, handicrafts and technical training. Furthermore, his works such as Daivadasakam and Atmopadesa Satakam depict a deep understanding of universe creation, resonating with recent advances in physics.
Relevance of Gurudev’s Philosophy Today
Sree Narayana Gurudev’s philosophy of Universal Oneness is still relevant today, as many societies combat issues of hatred, violence, bigotry, sectarianism and other divisive tendencies. His teachings are seen as a solution to bridge these divides.
Death and Legacy
Sree Narayana Guru passed away on September 20th, 1928. His death anniversary is observed as Sree Narayana Guru Samadhi in Kerala. While he may no longer be physically present, his teachings continue to impact society positively, making him a deeply revered figure.
