Chitrapur Math

A Spiritual and Social Beacon

Establishment and Sacred Origins

The Chitrapur Math, established in 1757, is located in Shirali village, North Kanara district of Karnataka. It was founded by the first Guru, Swami Parijnanashram, who arrived from Kashi carrying the idol of Lord Bhavanishankar, the presiding deity of the Math. Since its inception, the Math has served as the spiritual nucleus of the Chitrapur Saraswat community.

For over three centuries, the Math has been dedicated to spiritual rejuvenation, guiding devotees on the path of Sadhana, discipline, and righteous living.

Spiritual, Educational and Cultural Contributions

The Chitrapur Math plays a significant role in preserving and promoting Vedic and Sanskrit learning. It runs a Vedic School where Sanskrit is taught free of charge. The Math’s library houses a valuable collection of rare books and ancient palm-leaf manuscripts, while its museum preserves over 400 relics dating from 300 AD to 1800 AD, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The most important festival of the Math is Rathotsava, the grand car festival, which celebrated its 150th year in 2011, marking a major milestone in the Math’s history.

Social Reform and Progressive Values

The Math has always upheld progressive social ideals. It actively supports widow remarriage and strongly opposes child marriage. Its efforts are directed toward uplifting economically weaker sections by providing financial assistance, guidance, and opportunities for self-reliance.

Education and Healthcare Initiatives

Free education forms a cornerstone of the Math’s service activities. Children studying in institutions under its aegis receive free education, books, uniforms, and mid-day meals. Scholarships are awarded to deserving students.
Healthcare services are provided through the Srivali Clinic, which offers free medical assistance to the needy.

Community Welfare and Sustainable Development

The Chitrapur Math undertakes numerous charitable and developmental activities, including:

• Annadaan (free meals)
• Distribution of groceries and essential supplies to villagers
• A drinking water project, drawing water from the river, filtered through sand and supplied to nearby areas through tankers

The Math actively promotes environmentally sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting, vermiculture, bio-fertiliser production, organic home gardens, and sapling plantation. Care is taken to ensure that no green leaf is burnt on hills belonging to the Math. Rare ritual worship uses locally collected leaves and grass, maintaining ecological balance.

Each student is provided a nutritious, hygienic mid-day meal, along with fruits, reinforcing the Math’s holistic approach to nourishment and education.

A Home Beyond a Math

More than a religious institution, Chitrapur Math is a home—a centre of compassion, learning, service, and environmental consciousness, nurturing both spiritual and social well-being.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

In recognition of its enduring spiritual legacy, social reform initiatives, and community service spanning over three centuries, India Post is pleased to issue a Commemorative Postage Stamp on Chitrapur Math.