(1894–1994), affectionately known as Maha Periyava or the Sage of Kanchi, was the 68th Jagadguru Shankaracharya of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham. Revered as a “Walking God” (Nadamadum Deivam), he was a deeply spiritual saint who traversed India to spread Vedic knowledge, uphold Sanatana Dharma, and advocate for simple, virtuous living

• Life and Tenure: Born on May 20, 1894, as S waminathan in Villupuram, Tamil Nadu, he took Sanyasa (ascetic life) at the young age of 13 in 1907. He headed the Kanchi Kamakoti Math for nearly 87 years until attaining siddhi (samadhi) on January 8, 1994.
• Teachings: His teachings emphasized traditional values, compassion, and the preservation of Vedas. His profound discourses are compiled in a famous Tamil book titled “Deivathin Kural” (Voice of God).
• Legacy: He brought the lost glory of many temples back to the limelight, including Gangaikonda Chozhapuram. He was known for his extreme simplicity, living as a mendicant despite having lakhs of followers.
• Divine Perception: He is remembered for his wisdom, often providing guidance that combined spiritual insights with practical solutions to everyday struggles.
• Key Facts and Legacy
  • Early Life: Born as Swaminathan in Villupuram, Tamil Nadu, he took sanyasa (renunciation) at the age of 12 and was installed as the head of the Kanchi Mutt in 1907.
  • Service: He headed the Mutt for 87 years, the longest tenure in its history.
  • Mission: His primary focus was Veda Rakshanam (protecting the Vedas), Dharma, and Loka Kshemam (the welfare of the world).
  • Philosophy: He was a staunch practitioner of Advaita Vedanta, following the path of Adi Shankaracharya.
  • Literary Work: His oral discourses were compiled into the massive seven-volume masterpiece “Deivathin Kural” (Voice of God), which covers a vast range of topics from Hindu dharma to science and history.