Sri Shivarathri Shivayogi

Adi Jagadguru Sri Shivarathri Shivayogi: A Saint of Peace

Sri Shivarathri Shivayogi was a revered Saivite saint of the 10th Century AD. Very little is known about his early life. He rose to prominence through his extraordinary role as a peacemaker during a period of intense political conflict between two powerful rulers—Rachamalla IV of the Ganga dynasty of Talkad and Rajaraja Chola I of the Chola dynasty.

Champion of Peace and Harmony

When both warring kings sought Sri Shivarathri Shivayogi’s blessings for victory, the saint refused to endorse violence. Instead, he urged them to abandon war and embrace peace. His words had a profound impact, leading both rulers to reconcile and extend the hand of friendship, thereby restoring harmony between the rival kingdoms.

Establishment of the Sacred Math

In gratitude for his efforts in averting war, both kings jointly volunteered to establish a Math (Peetha) in his honour. Accordingly, the Math was founded on the banks of the River Kapila, near Suttur village in Nanjangud Taluk of Mysore district. This institution later came to be known as the Jagadguru Sri Veerasimhasana Mahasamsthana Math.

Enduring Legacy and Guiding Principles

The noble work initiated by Sri Shivarathri Shivayogi laid a strong foundation for the Math, guided by the principles of “Work is Worship” and “Selfless Service.” Over the centuries, the Math has served society without discrimination based on caste, creed, gender, or colour.

Service to Society

The Math has expanded its activities both in India and abroad, contributing significantly in diverse fields such as:

• Establishment of educational institutions
• Free boarding hostels
• Medical and healthcare services
• Literary and cultural centres

Through these initiatives, the Math continues to uphold the saint’s vision of compassion and universal service.

Commemorative Postage Stamp

In recognition of his spiritual and social contributions, the Department of Posts issued a commemorative postage stamp on Adi Jagadguru Shivarathri Shivayogi Swamiji, honouring him as a great Indian Saivite saint.