Maha Periva Life Hist Vol 1

E-Book from Kanchi Periva Forum

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Glimpses from Sri Maha Periva’s Life History – Volume 1

By Subi Anna

Glimpses from Sri Maha Periva’s Periva ’s Life History Volume 1 Table of Contents Preface ..................................................................... ............................. ................................................. .........3 Chapter 1 - Early Life ......................................... ......................................................... ................ 7 Chapter 2 - Meeting with Guru & Renunciat Renunciation ion ............10 Chapter 3 - Study Phase at the Mutt .............................. 18 Chapter 4 - 1911-1915: Mutt’s Administrati Administration on ..............23 Chapter 5 - Navaratri Festival ......................................... ............................ .............25 Chapter 6 - Inspiring Initiatives in Education and Arts....28 Chapter 7 - Impact on Science Scholars .......................... 34 Chapter 8 - Support to Classical Music ........................... 38

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By Subi Anna

describes the Divya Charitram (divine history) of Maha Periva.

Preface

The book has over 470 pages. In my home library, I have a collection of books covering a wide range of topics. One of the books is really a treasure that I am blessed to possess. It is a book on the biography of Kamakoti

Peetam’s

68 th

Sankaracharya Srimad Jagadguru Sri. Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi Swamigal, well known as Kanchi Maha Periva. Sri. Sambamurthy Sastrigal, the

In the preface, the author says

learned author of this book and

that he compiled the book based

one of Maha Periva’s siblings

on information gathered from a

presented a copy of this book to

variety of sources including the

me as a gift at my wedding.

daily notes of the author and translations of relevant articles

I am grateful to Sri. Sastrigal for

from other Indian languages.

this nice present that I cherish as the most precious gift that I have

The author has acknowledged the

ever received.

commendable assistance provided by Pudukottai Sri. Dakshinamurthy

Let me say a few words about this

Sastrigal and Sri. R. Viswanatha

book. Written in Tamil, the book © Copyrights reserved Kanchi Periva Forum – www.periva.proboards.com & www.periva.org Page 3 of 44


By Subi Anna

Iyer (Professor of Tamil in Madras

Periva’s tenure at the Kanchi

Presidency

Peetam.

College)

in

the

translation work and review of this book.

Much to my embarrassment, I must admit that for many years I

As regards the contents of this

did not care to read this book. The

book, it provides a description of

reasons are not far to seek. The

the early life of Maha Periva, his

size

nationwide

interesting

importantly, my own indifference

narrations of many incidents and

significantly delayed the process

meetings, Maha Periva ’s teachings

of reading this precious book.

travels,

of

the

book

and

more

at various places, and some old but rare pictures.

Realizing such barriers could exist for others too, I thought of

Maha Periva assumed charge of

extracting a few glimpses from the

the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam in

Tamil book and presenting them

the year 1907. Interestingly, this

as short, easy-to-read e-books in

biography book was published in

English

the year 1957 that happened to

making them in a couple of

coincide with the completion of 50

volumes to be released once a

years by Maha Periva as head of

month.

language.

I

propose

the Kanchi Peetam. Stories about great men inspire us The author mentions that the

and contribute to our learning.

book

was

a

therefore

a

The Tamil book on the life history

commemorative

publication

to

of Maha Periva provided me a

mark the golden jubilee of Maha

great inspiration and a valuable resource to attempt at writing in



By Subi Anna

English a condensed version in the

translations. A basic knowledge of

form of an e-book.

Sanskrit and Tamil would be very useful in reading, pronouncing and understanding the words correctly as used in this book. In the Tamil book, the author has used the word ‘Swamigal’ for

Maha Periva. I felt the word 'Swamigal' is commonly used for any saint in India. Therefore, it could cause some confusion in the minds of readers. Therefore, in this e-book, I have used the exclusive word ‘Maha Periva’ in place of Swamigal. You will find many Tamil and Sanskrit words in this e-book. I

I have provided a few pictures in

have not adopted any uniform

this book. The quality of these

style in the spelling and usage of

pictures is not good as these are

these words; For the benefit of

very old pictures copied from the

those readers who are not familiar

original Tamil book.

with some intricate words, I have italicized them and provided with

Nevertheless, they are included in

simple meanings in English when

the e-book as they may help

used for the first time.

readers to visualize people and places.

However, as you will appreciate, it is very difficult to provide exact © Copyrights reserved Kanchi Periva Forum – www.periva.proboards.com & www.periva.org Page 5 of 44


By Subi Anna

Maha Periva's charm and grace

I would greatly appreciate readers’

attracted all - the rich and the

feedback on this e-book, as it will

poor, the old and the young, the

guide me in my future work.

urban and rural dwellers alike. Thank you for your time and One of the most glorified sages in

encouragement.

the entire world, Maha Periva personified

humility

and

Jaya Jaya Sankara Hara Hara

simplicity.

Sankara

He attracted his devotees as a

Sundaresan Subramanian

magnet draws iron particles. I offer

my

ananthakoti

most ( most

namaskarams

humble

(“Subi Anna”) Chicago, July 2013

salutations) at the Lotus Feet of Maha Periva for providing me the inspiration to undertake this work. This e-book is dedicated to Maha Periva. I am indeed grateful to the Kanchi Periva forum for offering me an opportunity

to

provide

you

glimpses from Maha Periva’s life history in the electronic format.



Chapter 1 - Early Life

By Subi Anna

as

a

supervisor

in

government’s

The 68th Sankaracharya of Kanchi

department.

Kamakoti

Mahalakshmi

Peetam

Srimad

the

education

His was

mother a

talented

Jagadguru Sri. Chandrasekarendra

homemaker and a deeply religious

Saraswathi Swamigal, popularly

woman.

known as Maha Periva, was born on Sunday, May 20, 1894 in

Swaminathan had five siblings – an

Vizhupuram

elder brother named Ganapathi

city,

Tamil

Nadu,

India.

Sastry, three younger brothers by the names of Sambamurthy Sastri, Sadashiva

Sastry

Krishnamurthy

Sastry,

and and

a

younger sister named Lalithambal. Until

the

age

of

eight,

Swaminathan did not attend any school but learnt many things including music at home from his parents. However, at this time, Figure 1. A picture of the house in Vizhupuram, Tamil Nadu, India where Maha Periva was born as Swaminathan in the year 1894.

Swaminathan

did

not

get

an

opportunity to learn Sanskrit.

The parents of the child named

In the year 1905, Subramania

him as Swaminathan adopting the

Sastrigal

name of the family deity at the

upanayanam (thread ceremony)

Swamimalai

temple.

for Swaminathan. By then, the

Swaminathan’s father Subramania

family had moved to another city

performed

the

Sastrigal was a scholar and worked © Copyrights reserved Kanchi Periva Forum – www.periva.proboards.com & www.periva.org Page 7 of 44


called

Tindivanam.

Tindivanam

that

It

was

in

Swaminathan

By Subi Anna

demonstration of proficiency in the holy bible.

joined the Arcot American Mission High

School

in

second

form

As a student of the mission school,

(equivalent to present 7 th standard

Swaminathan

or grade 7).

remarkable

displayed intelligence

and

grasping power in studies. The Christian mission teachers were proud of having Swaminathan as a student

in

interesting

their

school.

incident

An

happened

while Swaminathan was studying in

third

form

8th

(present

standard). To ensure that schools were functioning effectively in the field of

education,

the

local

government had then many school inspectors. One of the inspectors Figure 2. A picture of the student Swaminathan with a certificate in his hand. His School is set in the background of the image.

of

schools

named

Singaravelu

Mudaliar once visited the mission school for inspection.

At school, Swaminathan proved to be

a

brilliant

and

While checking on how students

school

were faring in their studies, he

activities. He won many prizes at

picked Swaminathan to ask him

competitive events including a

several questions.

participated

in

student many



By Subi Anna

The inspector was so pleased with

Young

Swaminathan’s perfect answers

good speaking skills and a fine

that he called Subramania Satrigal

sense of humor. When he was

and told him, “ Some day, your son

studying

in

will become a great man .” It

(present

9th grade),

seemed

selected for a school drama to

like

a

prophecy

and

Sastrigal felt immensely happy.

Swaminathan

the

had

fourth

very

form

he

was

perform the role of Prince Arthur in Shakespeare’s play “King John.”

Though his orthodox parents were not too happy about their son acting in a drama, they did not want to curb his desire. Therefore, they agreed to his performing the assigned role in the school event and made special clothes for him to suit his role as a Figure 3. Sri. Subramania Sastrigal, Father of Maha Periva.

prince in the drama.

At that time, little did Sastrigal

Acting

realize that his son Swaminathan

Swaminathan performed so well

would someday leave his home

that he impressed everyone in the

and

a

school with his superb acting and

Sanyaasi (an ascetic) and head the

won the first prize for his great

Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam.

performance in the play.

relatives

to

become

as

Prince

Arthur,



By Subi Anna

The day after the play at school,

No doubt, the parents must have

Swaminathan’s

been very proud at their son’s

teachers

visited

the home of Subramania Sastrigal

splendid performance at school.

and expressed their happiness on his

son’s

talents.



Chapter 2 - Meeting with Guru & Renunciation

In

the

year

1906,

the

Sankaracharya

of

the

Kamakoti

Peetam

Chandrasekarendra (referred

to

began a fond relationship between the Guru and young Swaminathan.

66 th

Kanchi Sri

Swamigal

as

‘the

By Subi Anna

Guru’

hereafter) was camping at a small village called Perumukkal in South Arcot District.

One

day,

Swaminathan

was

missing at his home. His parents were worried and searched all around.

After

spending

two

sleepless nights, the parents got a message that Swaminathan was safe at the Guru’s c amp. Two days

later,

Swaminathan

returned

home. It was not clear as to how To

meet

with

this

Guru,

Subramania Sastrigal went with his

and why he went to meet the Guru.

family to Perumukkal. During the family’s 2-days stay at the village,

the Guru had several meetings with asked

young him

Impressed

Swaminathan many

with

and

questions.

Swaminathan’s

answers, the Guru had instructed Sastrigal to bring him more often

Sometime in early February 1907, while Subramania Sastrigal was away at work in Tiruchy, his family received a telegram from the Guru’s camp requesting Sastrigal

to

bring

Swaminathan

immediately to Kanchipuram.

to the Guru’s camp.

Realizing Later, in compliance with the Guru’s instructions, Swaminathan

accompanied

his

father

many

times to meet with the Guru. Thus

the

importance

and

urgency of the matter, friends of Sastrigal sent the family members by train to Kanchipuram. At that time, the Guru was was camping



By Subi Anna

at a small village called Kalavai –

as his successor. He had instructed

about

the Kanchi Mutt officials to call

30

miles

away

from

Kanchipuram.

Swaminathan

and

his

father

Subramania Sastrigal. Accordingly, the mutt officials sent a telegram to Sastrigal asking him to come immediately with Swaminathan. Unfortunately,

before

Swaminathan could reach Kalavai, the Guru had attained siddhi (a Sanskrit term to signify the passing away of a Guru). The Guru, in his final moments, had initiated his 18-year

old

Lakshmikanthan Figure 4. Sri Maha Periva, at a very young age

The officials at the Kanchi Mutt arranged to dispatch Swaminathan to Kalavai leaving the other family members in Kanchipuram. When the telegram was sent to Sastrigal, the Guru was suffering from small pox. Realizing that he may not live long, the Guru desired to appoint Swaminathan

disciple (who

was

proficient in Rig Veda and was readily available) to succeed him. Therefore,

Lakshmikanthan

became the 67th Sankaracharya of the Kanchi Peetam. However, the ways of Almighty are strange and unpredictable! It so

happened

that

the

67 th

Sankaracharya too suffered from an attack of small pox and lived only for 8 days after taking over



the

Peetam.

However,

By Subi Anna

before

attaining siddhi, he approved the

The officials of the Kanchi mutt

appointment

pleaded

of

young

with

them

to

spare

Swaminathan as his successor to

Swaminathan for the welfare of

the Kanchi Peetam.

the world at large and for the sake of other disciples at the mutt who

Following the Guru’s desire, on

urgently needed a Guru.

the thirteenth day of February 1907, Swaminathan was initiated into

Sanyasa

(becoming

an

ascetic) to take over the reins of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam as the 68th Sankaracharya. He accepted the Deeksha (assigned) name of Sri.

Chandrasekerandra

Saraswathi. Swaminathan’s

parents

were

stunned at the unexpected turn of events. Becoming a Sanyasi is not an

easy

task

for

anybody,

particularly for a 13-year old boy, as

it

involves

a

very

Figure 5. The young Sannyaasi - Sri Maha Periva, sitting amidst His disciples

strong

meditation,

Perplexed and not knowing what

worship and disconnection of the

to do, Swaminathan’s parents did

family members. They were most

not have a ready response to the

reluctant to give away their loving

mutt officials. As if to relieve the

son to the Kanchi Peetam.

great mental torture his parents

personal

discipline,

were going through, the gentle © Copyrights reserved Kanchi Periva Forum – www.periva.proboards.com & www.periva.org Page 13 of 44


By Subi Anna

Swaminathan offered salutations

After

to his parents and told them,

Swaminathan’s parents returned

“Why do you hesitate? I have the

home and never met him again.

fullest blessing of the Guru and I

Later, if anyone ever asked about

shall fulfill my duties as ordained.

their

Please

parents would just remain silent.

permit

me

to

accept

the

renunciation

son

event,

Swaminathan,

the

Sanyasam with your full heart.” Visit to Kumbakonam

Those words were a source of 18th century,

great solace to Swaminathan’s

During

the

parents and they reconciled and

reasons of internal wars, the

gave permission to their son.

administrative

headquarters

Kanchi

Kamakoti

Thus, the bright young boy who

shifted

from

was

Kumbakonam

until

then

Swaminathan

Peetam This

of was

Kanchipuram city.

for

to

move

suddenly became a Sanyasi (an

happened during the tenure of the

ascetic) renouncing all bondage

62nd Sankaracharya.

with

his

family

and

his

possessions. With a clean-shaven

Maha Periva accepted the Acharya

head and donning ochre robes, he

Peetam (Seat) at Kalavai Village.

looked

After this event, in the same year,

magnificently

like

Adisankara himself. Quite aptly, he

he

acquired

of

Enroute, he stayed for three days

devotees

in Tindivanam where his parents

started addressing him as Periva.

were living. In those days, people

(Hereafter in this book, we revere

celebrated

him as Maha Periva to distinguish

Sankaracharya Swamigal as a local

him from other Kanchi Perivas).

festival.

the

Sankaracharya.

title

Later,

traveled

to

the

Kumbakonam.

visit

of

any



By Subi Anna

Maha Periva’s visit to Tindivanam in 1907 had a special significance. Until

then,

the

residents

of

Tindivanam knew him only as a young boy but now they were seeing him as an ochre robewearing ascetic – a charming Sankaracharya. It was natural that the local residents were proud that

the

Sankaracharya

Maha

Periva belonged to their city of Tindivanam. For this reason, people gathered in large numbers to see him and

Figure 6. Sri Maha Periva, performing Sri Chandramouleeshwara Pooja

express

Thousands of people used to gather to watch the Acharya performing

the

Pooja

(ritual

worship) to the deities of Sri. Chandramouleeshwara

and

His

consort Tripurasundari Amman. After the Pooja, the Acharya used to

distribute

the

Abhisheka

Theertam (the holy water) to the

devotees.

their

devotion.

The

teachers and students from the local

mission

school

were

particularly interested to see him. Maha Periva delighted them by conversing with them. All

the

Kamakoti

Sankaracharyas Peetam

of

were/are

Sanyasis. However, since they worked for the welfare of people at large, it was a tradition to visualize them like Emperors. The



By Subi Anna

disciples, therefore, wanted to perform the formal Pattabishekam (traditional coronation) of Maha Periva. On May 9, 1907, this important Pattabhishekam

event

was

celebrated in a grand manner at the Kumbakonam Mutt. At

this

event,

Maha

Periva

received Abhishekam (holy bath) with water from the holy River Ganges. After

Figure 7. Sri Maha Periva, adorning a Simhasanam (throne) and being worshipped by an Elephant

the

abhishekam,

Maha

Periva was seated on a simhasana

Many

talented

artists

and

(throne).

professionals were honored with gifts.

Thousands of people including many

dignitaries

government,

from

and

the

Later in the night, seated on an

royal

elephant, Maha Periva went on a

representatives of the queens

procession

around

from

providing

a

Thanjavur

witnessed

the

kingdom coronation

the

scene

city that

mesmerized the people around.

ceremony.



By Subi Anna

boy

of 68th Sankaracharya of Kanchi

called Swaminathan became a

Kamakoti Peetam with the title of

Sanyasi and attained the position

Jagadguru.

Thus,

a

thirteen-year-old



Chapter 3 - Study Phase at the Mutt

By Subi Anna

this village, one had to disembark at Laalapettai Railway Station and

In the initial years of 1909-10,

travel by a ferry over one-mile

Maha

wide Cauvery River.

Periva

studied

Sanskrit

scriptures, fine arts, and Vedas at the Kumbakonam Mutt under the guidance of the pandits (learned teachers) of the Mutt. The pandits were immensely impressed with Maha

Periva’s

grasp

and

intelligence. However, the visits of numerous devotees and disciples to the mutt were seen to be a disturbance to the

studies

Therefore,

at

for

Kumbakonam. continuing

the

studies without disturbance, the mutt officials identified a calm and beautiful location at a village

Figure 8. The baala sannyaasi – in Mahendra Mangalam

called Mahendra Mangalam. Because of the travel ordeals, not This village was located on the

many people would venture to

banks of River Cauvery, about five

visit

miles west of Musiri town, beyond

Maha Periva’s darshan (seeing a

Thottiyam

Tiruchy-

holy person). In 1911, Maha Periva

Namakkal road. In those days,

moved to the chosen new location

there

to continue his studies.

on

were

the not

much

of

Mahendra

Mangalam

for

transportation facilities. To reach © Copyrights reserved Kanchi Periva Forum – www.periva.proboards.com & www.periva.org Page 18 of 44


By Subi Anna

The method of Maha Periva’s

Ratnakara

Vishnupuram

study was unique. Generally, a

Sastrigal

student respects the teachers and

Venkatrama Sastrigal.

and

Sami

Tiruvisainallur

treats them as Gurus. Before beginning and after ending the

Among

the

lessons, the teachers used to

official

pundits

prostrate before Maha Periva as

encouraged Maha Periva were

they regarded Maha Periva (who

Mahamahopadyaya

was really the student) as their

Sastrigal,

Guru.

Karungulam Krishna Sastrigal, and

mutt’s

important

who

greatly

Ganapathy

Mahamahopadyaya

Koti

Kannikadaanam

Despite this unusual situation,

Upayavedanta

Maha Periva greatly respected his

Thathachariar.

Rajagopala

teachers and learnt many new subjects such as grammar, logic,

It would be surprising to note that

Vedanta and others. He also learnt

Maha Periva was also learning

Meemasam.

French

During

the

three

and

English

languages

years of 1911 to 1913, the village

along with other subjects. As

became the travel destination for

Maha Periva was also keen to

numerous pundits and leaders.

learn Marathi language and study books in Marathi, a Marathi Pandit

Notably, those who assisted in

was

Maha Periva’s study of the various

Bombay Presidency and made to

subjects

stay at the mutt for three years.

include

Panchapakesa

Painganadu

specially

brought

from

Sastrigal,

Mahamahopadyaya (title given to

Working with the Marathi pandit,

a great teacher) Sastra Ratnakara

Maha Periva researched many

Venkatasubba

Marathi

Sastrigal,

Sastra

books.

Maha

Periva ’s



By Subi Anna

interest in Tamil language was the

in fine arts, Maha Periva learnt the

greatest of all. With the help of

intricacies of fine arts. Amongst

some Tamil scholars, Maha Periva

fine arts, the art of music attracted

learnt

Maha Periva.

Tamil

grammar

and

literature. Quite often, Maha Periva took walks on the sand dunes located in the middle of Cauveri. He would enjoy the natural beauty and many times sat there alone in meditation. He liked to take pictures of natural scenes. In those days, a person with a camera would follow Maha Periva as a practice. Maha

Periva

would

ask

him

randomly to take many pictures of

Figure 9. Sri Maha Periva, during the course of his studies at Mahendra Mangalam

natural scenes. As he knew the intricacies of a camera very well,

He also continued to research on

Maha

Tamil

suggestions to photographers on

classics

Thevara,

Thiruvachakam, Periya Puranam, Thiruvizhaiyadal

Puranam

Periva

used

to

offer

clicking the best shots.

and

Thirukural. He did not allocate a

He would also advise them on the

separate time for learning the fine

techniques in developing the films,

arts.

and taking prints.

In

spare

time,

during

conversations with people skilled © Copyrights reserved Kanchi Periva Forum – www.periva.proboards.com & www.periva.org Page 20 of 44


By Subi Anna

Maha Periva became well versed

them in listening to his favorite

in Mathematics, Astrology and

Thevarams.

Maha

Periva

astronomy too. To receive training

developed

keen

interest

in these subjects, Maha Periva

Vaishnavite

scriptures

arranged

Thiruvaimozhi and others.

to

have

Marur

also in

such

as

Ramaswami Sastrigal (a disciple of Thiruvaiyaru

Sundaresa

Maha Periva stayed in the village

Shrowdhigal) to stay in the mutt

of

Mahendra

Mangalam

for many years and provided

1911 to 1914. After completion of

support to his family.

studies,

he

from

returned

to

Kumbakonam

in

1914.

To

commemorate

his

study

and

training, a Sankaralayam (Sankara Temple) Mahendra

was

established

Mangalam

on

in the

banks of Cauvery. Within a short period of 6 years, Maha Periva excelled in his pursuit of knowledge and became well versed in a wide range of topics. He became familiar with a variety Figure 10. Maha Periva on completion of studies in 1914

of subjects including epics, history of

holy

places,

archaeology,

Maha Periva was keen in listening

modern world and others. He

to Thevaram songs. Whenever

quickly gained knowledge from

talented

visiting scholars and applied his

musicians

visited

the

mutt, he would spend hours with © Copyrights reserved Kanchi Periva Forum – www.periva.proboards.com & www.periva.org Page 21 of 44


By Subi Anna

knowledge to discover truth. He

Barely twenty years old, had Maha

was one among few who were

Periva

excellent others qualities.

proved

himself

to

be

in

interaction

with

mature and well talented to hold

and

evaluating

their

his

position

Sankaracharya

as of

the the

68 th Kanchi

Kamakoti Peetam.



Chapter 4 - 1911-1915: Mutt’s Administration Administra tion

By Subi Anna

On the Sankara Jayanthi day in May 1915, Maha Periva completed 21 years of age and took over the

Maha Periva was a minor (he was only 13 years old!) when he became the 68th Sankaracharya of Kanchi

Mutt.

Some

of

the

administration

of

the

mutt.

However, all the administrative work was actually carried out by an authorized agent.

concerned devotees had appealed to the Chennai government that the administration of the mutt should be under the protection of the district court. There was not enough property for

the

mutt

administration

to by

warrant a

court.

However, in the interests of the mutt,

the

court

ordered

the

administration of the mutt be conducted under the "Guardian and Wards" act. Accordingly, Sri. C.H.

Venkatramana

prominent

Iyer,

person

Figure 11. Sri Maha Periva, sitting under a Vriksha

a

from

At that time, Pasupathi Iyer, a

Coimbatore district's Kolinjiwadi

resident of Tirupathiripuliyur city

Village, was appointed as the

and a long-time devotee of Maha

guardian of the mutt. From the

Periva efficiently performed the

year 1911 to 1915, Venkatramana

administrative activities without

Iyer administered the mutt.

any remuneration.



By Subi Anna

As per tradition, Maha Periva

To enable people understand the

never

documents.

essence of Vedas, Maha Periva

Instead, the mutt’s “Srimukham”

released the mutt's monthly Tamil

(official

magazine titled ‘Arya Dharmam.’

signed

any

letter)

was

used

to

empower the agents and attest documents.

Under the supervision of Sri. T.K. Bala Subramania Iyer, this high-

Sankara Jayanthi in the year 1915

quality magazine was printed at

was celebrated in a grand manner

the Srirangam Vanivilas printing

at the mutt.

press.

A large number of devotees from

To

different parts of the country had

reforms

collected for the event.

administration of the mutt.

Several noteworthy activities took

For the benefit of disciples and

place at this event.

devotees, the history of the mutt was

improve

efficiency,

were

published

made

in

several to

the

different

languages. Thiruvananthapuram Archeological

inspector

Sri

T.A.Gopinatha Rao examined the relics and artifacts of the mutt and helped in compiling the mutt's history book.

Figure 12. Sri Maha Periva decorating the throne © Copyrights reserved Kanchi Periva Forum – www.periva.proboards.com & www.periva.org Page 24 of 44


Chapter 5 - Navaratri Festival

By Subi Anna

A brief description of this festival was provided by Sri C. Subramania

In October 1916, the mutt at

Bharathiar in one of his articles.

Kumbakonam

Excerpts of Bharatiar’s description

celebrated

the

(nine nights) festival in a Navaratri (nine

follow.

grand manner. On each of the nine days, there was laksharchana

“During the spring season, people

(a worship chanting names of the

traditionally worship the Goddess

deity 100000 times) to Ambikai

for nine nights. There was flash

(Goddess). The festivities included

news that the Kumbakonam mutt

lighting of one lakh (100,000)

will conduct special celebrations

lamps with ghee, and feeding one

for the Navaratri. It was common

lakh Brahmins.

news. Since I was somewhat curious about Sankara mutt, I read the news. More than half of it was about

Shastras

(Sacred

scriptures/teachings). It seemed uncommon to introduce shastras in

commercial

news.

Nevertheless, the shastras in it were truthful. I did not expect it. Therefore, I was very happy when I read the news. About

the

celebrations, Figure 13. Maha Periva in front of Sri Chandramouleeswara & Ambaal

special the

Navaratri

Kumbakonam

newspaper commented that the purpose of this special worship is



By Subi Anna

welfare of the world. During

Idols

Navaratri,

Maya

Saraswathi were installed facing

(Ambika) takes three forms –

East. Those who were proficient in

Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswathi –

Devi

to get rid of evil and spread

Sahasranamam

happiness for humanity.

Archana many times.

Ever since Devi took such avatara

Priest conducted several homams

(incarnation) to alleviate human

(sacrificial fire) such as Chandi

sufferings, the people of India

homam, and Srividya homam.

have been celebrating this festival.

Scholars recited scriptures like

Devi is Omni-present; She is also

Ramayanam, Bhagavatham, Devi

present in every material; She is

Mahatmiyam, Soundarya Lahari,

the Maya (illusion); She is the

and Bhagavad Gita. Vedic experts

Shakti (Divine force); She is the

recited Vedas.

the

Yoga

of

Durga,

Puja

Lakshmi,

recited and

and

Lalitha performed

performer of action, the activity and the result of the activity; She

There

were

also

lectures

on

is the mother and father; She is

different topics by other experts,

the Parabrahmam.”

and musical programs. On the Vijayadasami Day (tenth day),

The Navaratri festival of the mutt

Maha Periva visited the local

was actively supported by people

temples.

from different walks of life – mirasdars (landlords),

owners,

Tirupanandal

company

Later, Maha Periva, sitting on top

mutt

of an elephant, was taken on a

Tambiran Swamigal, and others.

mile-long procession around the city.



By Subi Anna

On both sides of the procession

band, groups reciting Vedas and

route were accompaniments of

Thevaram, four elephants, and

hundreds

lights,

horses. Those who witnessed this

attractive display of fireworks, six

event were indeed very fortunate!

pairs

of

of

power

Nadaswarams

(pipe

instrument), three pairs of musical



Chapter 6 - Inspiring Initiatives in Education and Arts

By Subi Anna

conferred the title of “Sastra “Sastra Ratnakaram”” on two great Vedic Ratnakaram

scholars – Brahmasri Pazhamaneri Beginning

in

Kumbakonam,

1917 Maha

at Periva

initiated many laudable activities to encourage education and arts in various parts of India. Some of these

activities

described

in

are the

briefly following

paragraphs:

Ramaswami

Sastrigal

and

Brahmasri Tiruvisainallur Venkata Subba Satrigal. Later on, many scholars have received this title. (Note: The names of nineteen scholars who received this title later are given in the Tamil book. From time to time, Maha Periva had honored them.)

Honoring Scholars

Soon after the annual convention of

the

Kumbakonam

Sabha in August

Advaitha

1917,

Maha

Periva convened a meeting of scholars. At this meeting, Maha Periva honored numerous wellqualified people from all over India including professors from prominent educational institutions such as the Calcutta University, Kasi Hindu University, Chennai Sanskrit Bharatiya talented

College, Vidya Vedic

Bombay

Bhavan scholars

and from

Figure 14. Maha Periva in front of a batch of Scholars & Pandits

different cities. Maha Periva also © Copyrights reserved Kanchi Periva Forum – www.periva.proboards.com & www.periva.org Page 28 of 44


By Subi Anna

scholarships

Encouraging Students

to

college

and

university students for the year Essay Competition: In the same

1917 and for subsequent years. He

year, in order to get college

had

students interested in religion,

assistance

Maha Periva announced an essay

provided religious education.

also

extended to

financial

schools

that

competition for them. The topic for the essay in English was

Medical Aid to Poor

“Pursuant to changes taking place

all round, how to determine ways

During 1917, Maha Periva had

to protect Sanathana Dharma? ”

established an Ayurvedic clinic to provide free healthcare to poor

Many students from colleges in

people. The doctors who served at

major cities like Chennai, Tiruchy,

this clinic were Vaidya Visharaths

Madurai and others participated in

(a

this essay competition. Students

Jagadrakshaka

who wrote the first three winning

Thiruvannamalai

essays received cash prizes and

Shastrigal - both graduates from

books.

Venkataramana Ayurvedic college

qualification

title)

Shastrigal

and

Krishna

in Mylapore, Chennai. The student winner of the first prize at this competition – V.R. Ramachandra

Deekshitar

Encouraging Arts

later

became the professor of history in

During Maha Periva ’s stay in

the University of Madras.

Kumbakonam from the year 1914 to

1918,

artists,

Financial Assistance: Maha Periva

linguists

had

different parts of India continued

arranged

to

provide

and

musicians,

scholars

from



By Subi Anna

to visit the mutt for Maha Periva ’s

It requires a very high level of

darshan.

attention,

quick

grasp,

strong

memory power and knowledge of Almost every day, there used to be

various topics including literature.

a meeting of scholars in the evening

time

and

heated

Avadhani refers to the individual

discussions on matters related to

who

successfully

sastras.

Avadhanam.

Maha Periva would patiently listen

In those days, talented scholars

to all arguments and at the end,

and poets called Ashtaavadanis

explain the truth and validity

and Shataavadanis used to travel

behind every argument.

across

the

performs

country

and

demonstrate their knowledge and Everyone

around

would

be

superior skills to people in high

surprised at the admirable manner

places to earn their appreciation

in which Maha Periva used to

and some gifts.

draw conclusions acceptable to all. Ashtaavadanis Maha Periva and Avadhanam

( Ashta Ashta

means

eight) were experts who quickly understood eight questions from

‘Avadhana’ is a Sanskrit word

different scholars at one go and

meaning

‘concentration’.

answered each of the questions

Avadhanam refers to a person's

correctly and exactly in the same

ability to concentrate and perform

order in which they were asked.

correctly multiple tasks at the same time.



By Subi Anna

around the avadhani and shoot questions at him from various subjects, one after another. For example: one scholar may recite the first line of a poem and ask the avadhani to recite the next line; another scholar may ask for answer to a complex question in mathematics; the third scholar could be an astrologer describing an horoscope and asking for predictions based on astrological Figure 15. Maha Periva giving darshan in Sanskrit College, Chennai

Likewise,

Shataavadanis

science; a musical scholar might sing a rare raga (tune) and ask the

(Shata

avadhani to identify the raga;

means hundred) were those who

another scholar could question

could

him

answer

one

hundred

on

flowers;

yet

another

questions correctly. To prove their

scholar may test the avadhani’s

skills, the avadhanis had to be

knowledge of epics by asking a

smart and proficient in different

question from the Ramayana, and

subjects such as languages, arts

so on.

and

poetry,

astrology,

logic,

mathematics, Vedanta,

Meemamsa and Vyakarana.

At the end of a set number of questions in quick succession, the avadhani had to answer all the

In order to test and verify the skills

questions correctly in the same

of each avadhani, many scholars

order.

(subject experts) would be seated © Copyrights reserved Kanchi Periva Forum – www.periva.proboards.com & www.periva.org Page 31 of 44


The

Avadhani’s amazing

feat

required intimate knowledge on

By Subi Anna

down his own answer to every question.

various topics, the ability to listen carefully and concentrate and

The talented Sathawadhani visitor

above all, remembering many

replied all the test questions

unrelated questions in the same

correctly without any hesitation.

sequence. At the end, a comparative check of Therefore,

the

event

to

test

his answers with Maha Periva's

avadhani skills generally provided

own

answers

(noted

down

a literary feast and entertainment

separately) revealed that both sets

to the audience.

of answers matched perfectly. People around were immensely

An interesting incident related to

impressed with Maha Periva's

avadhanam took place at the

knowledge.

mutt. Once, an aged Vaishnavite (Devotee of Vishnu) Sathawadhani

Maha Periva then complimented

(one

one

the Sathawadhani and honored

hundred questions) had visited the

him with a Kashmiri shawl and

Kumbakonam mutt.

other gifts. Later, for a couple of

who

could

answer

years, the same Sathawadhani Following

the

usual

practice,

used to visit the mutt often.

experts in different subjects grilled the Sathawadhani with various

Likewise, many other artists used

test questions. While the experts

to

were asking the questions, Maha

demonstrate their skills before

Periva asked a person to note

Maha Periva and receive gifts from

visit

the

mutt

often

to

him.



By Subi Anna

“Brahmacharya”

Visitors’’ Impressions Visitors Impressions

(celibacy)

in

Maha Periva. The owner of a large circus

With such power, one can achieve

company in those days, Professor

all the feats that are considered

Ramamurthy, once met with Maha

unachievable in this world.”

Periva and got his doubts on Yoga clarified by Maha Periva.

In the year 1917, the Maharaja (King) of Darbhanga, during his travels in South India, stayed in Kumbakonam for three days. At that time, he met with Maha Periva discussed with him about the temples that integrated North and South and the cultures. Impressed with Maha Periva’s spiritual

power,

the

Maharaja

requested Maha Periva to visit North India. Maha Periva’s multiple initiatives Figure 16. Maha Periva doing Anushtaanam Anushtaanam

in the field of education and arts

Later, this person referred about his meeting with Maha Periva to

inspired millions of people in various parts of the country.

one of his friends, and told him, “ I

saw

the

real

power

of



Chapter 7 - Impact on Science Scholars

By Subi Anna

However, when he reached the mutt, Maha Periva received him warmly and spoke to him cordially

In Kumbakonam, Sri. P. Rajagopala Iyer, a scholar in Science, served as a Professor of Physics (and later as Principal)

at

the

Government

College. Professor Iyer, through his

without

much

ado.

The

conversation between the two began with college and general events,

and

later

turned

to

science. Listening to Maha Periva,

friends, had heard a lot about

the learned Professor Iyer was

Maha Periva’s knowledge of arts

awe-struck by the ease with which

and his genius. Therefore, he was

Maha Periva explained some of

very keen to meet Maha Periva in person. However, in his mind, he was

not

sure

whether

of a religious Peetam, would be appropriately responsive to him and talk meaningfully. Therefore, kept

on

Physics.

Maha

Periva, being a Sanyasi and head

Iyer

the intricacies in the field of

postponing

his

meeting with Maha Periva.

While Maha Periva was busy in discussion with Professor Iyer, the Superintending Engineer of Public Works Department (PWD), Sri. P.V. Manicka Nayakkar (another scholar with a Master’s degree in

Mathematics) walked in for Maha Despite his lingering doubt, Iyer

Periva's darshan.

Nayakkar was

somehow steadied his mind one

already a great devotee of Maha

day and traveled to the mutt to

Periva. He was known to Maha

have a darshan of Maha Periva. He

Periva for many years. However,

was not aware of the proper way

Professor Iyer was a complete

of offering salutations to Maha

stranger to Nayakkar. Observing

Periva

who

was

holding

the

the

interesting

trend

of

position of Acharya at the mutt. © Copyrights reserved Kanchi Periva Forum – www.periva.proboards.com & www.periva.org Page 34 of 44


By Subi Anna

discussions on Science, Nayakkar

Astronomy helped both of them to

was curious to know who the

lose their pride as high-ranking

stranger was. At this stage, Maha

university graduates. After this

Periva

introduced

incident, Iyer had a high reverence

Nayakkar to Iyer. Soon after the

for Maha Periva. He visited the

introduction,

mutt frequently and considered

himself the

discussions

continued and took a turn to the

that

subject

Periva was the best among his

of

Periva

Astronomy.

started

Maha

explaining

conversation

with

Maha

life’s goals.

similarities between our ancient ways

and

Western

ways

in

astronomy. Using a telescope that was specially brought from the local college, Maha Periva added great clarity to the points he had explained earlier on Astronomy. After listening to Maha Periva's lucid

explanations

on

the

intricacies of Astronomy, both the highly qualified scientists (Iyer and Nayakkar) were astonished. They wondered how Maha Periva could acquire such in-depth scientific knowledge

without

a

university

education.

formal Maha

Periva’s clear explanations on the

Figure 17. Maha Periva in a meditative mood at Sankara Mutt, Kumbakonam

scientific subjects of Physics and



By Subi Anna

Innovation

Telescope Gift

Sri. P.V. Manicka Nayakkar had

Raja A.V. Jecca Rao, a property

invented an innovative way of

owner

using

to

District of Andhra Pradesh had

pronounce words in Sanskrit and

invested several lakhs of Rupees

other languages. He had also

to set up an astronomical research

published his innovation in the

centre in Vizag. He had traveled

form of a book.

around the world, met with many

Tamil

alphabets

from

Vishakapatnam

astronomers, and through them Maha Periva appreciated his work

learnt many special techniques in

and provided a Srimukham (the

astronomy. He wanted to apply

official appreciation letter of mutt)

the foreign techniques in India for

to Nayakkar’s book.

the benefit of his home country. He came to Kumbakonam to have

During his travels to many cities,

a darshan of Maha Periva and get

Nayakkar participated in scholarly

his blessings.

meetings and spoke about his innovative

transliteration

While speaking with Maha Periva,

technique. He pleaded with the

Jecca Rao was so impressed with

audience to adopt it.

Maha Periva’s keen interest and wide knowledge of astronomy

There was a report that while

that he gifted a special and

speaking about his technique at a

expensive telescope (4 ft long, 6”

public

diameter, bought in Italy) to help

meeting

in

Thanjavur,

Nayakkar publicized Maha Periva ’s

Maha

Periva’s

endorsement of his innovation.

astronomy.

research

into



The

abovementioned

By Subi Anna

incidents

the God of their religion. (His

illustrate the strong impact made

opinion is confirmed by many

by Maha Periva on scholars of

incidents later).

science. Many

people

had

witnessed

and/or known Maha Periva’s open

View on other religions

mind and his tolerance to all other Maha

Periva

respected

any

religions. Once Sri. Jinaraja Dasar,

religion that accepted God. With

a scholar of Brahmagnana Sabha

his open mind, he created a

had met with Maha Periva and

healthy impact on scholars from

discussed about religions of the

other religions.

world.

His confirmed

opinion was that people of any religion should stick to their own

He was greatly impressed by Maha

religion and continue to worship

Periva’s open mind on religions.



Chapter 8 - Support to Classical Music

By Subi Anna

times Vidwans had learnt many languages. Observing that the classical

None can match Maha Periva in enjoying the sastric aspects of classical music. Whenever leading musicians performed at the mutt, Maha Periva focused his attention on the meaning of lyrics, raga

compositions

Shyama

Sastri

of

and

Sri. Sri.

Muthuswamy Deekshitar were not being practiced much by the Vidwans, he used to advise the artists to learn and practice these compositions.

(tune) and thalam (rhythm) of the musical presentation. Later, he aroused the interest of artists with relevant questions and doubts.

In those days, the musical Vidwans (artists)

and

(devotees)

the

Bhagavatars

engaged

in

Kathakalakshepam (an Indian style

As Maha Periva was well trained in Telugu

language,

explain

to

meanings

the of

he

used

visiting various

to

artists Telugu

of

telling

religious

stories)

considered it a great honor to perform before Maha Periva and receive his blessings.

compositions by Sri. Thyagaraja Swamigal and others. Stressing

Many

that one should sing only after

Kumbakonam not only for Maha

knowing Periva

the would

meaning, often

Maha

urge

the

Vidwans (artists) to learn at least

Periva’s

artists

used

darshan

but

to also

visit to

display their artistic skills before him and discuss matters related to

three languages - Tamil, Telugu

music.

and Sanskrit - so that they can

numerous that to cover all their

understand the meanings of many

names and meetings with Maha

musical compositions. He used to

Such

artists

are

so

Periva is beyond the scope of this

point out to them that in olden © Copyrights reserved Kanchi Periva Forum – www.periva.proboards.com & www.periva.org Page 38 of 44


By Subi Anna

e-book. Therefore, we provide a

time, Maha Periva will discuss with

brief description relating to some

him many things related to the art

of the prominent artists.

of music. Maha Periva honored Swaminatha Iyer with the title of “Nadanubhav Saragnya.”

Mayavaram Vaidyanatha Iyer, a Veena player, used to come often with his sons Sabesa Iyer and Krishnamoorthy

to

see

Maha

Periva. Sabesa Iyer was a unique player on the Veena (a string instrument). Much to the delight of listeners, he

effectively

integrated

the

Veena’s musical tone with his

gentle background singing. After Figure 18. Maha Periva with a small, beautiful tampura in his lap

Umayalpuram

Swaminatha

he started playing the Veena, his Iyer

was a stalwart among musicians. He was an important disciple of Maha Vaidyanatha Iyer and a descendant

of

Sri.

Tyagaraja

Swami’s direct disciple. He was

also a Guru to many students. He came almost every day to have a darshan of Maha Periva. At that

father Vaidyanatha Iyer stopping giving performances. One day, Sabesa Iyer was giving a splendid Veena

performance before

Maha

on

the

Periva.

Vaidyanatha Iyer was so ecstatic at his son's performance that he impulsively shouted, ‘‘Sabash! Sabash! (an



By Subi Anna

exclamation of delight for a job

Sunadram Iyer on Ghatam (an

well

earthen pot instrument).

done),

en

Appane’

(my

father). Thirupazhanam

Panchapakesa

With a smile on his face, Maha

Sastrigal,

who

lived

Periva looked at Vaidyanatha Iyer

Kumbakonam

and told him, “In the midst of this

frequently

assembly, you should not openly

Kathakalakshepam at the mutt.

itself,

used

in to

conduct

praise your son’s performance.

Only when others praise him, your

Thousands of people heard him

son will feel proud. You must

with delight. He was unmatched

appreciate him within your mind .”

for his musical and oratory skills most suited to the tastes of his

Vaidyanatha Iyer accepted Maha

fans. He was supported by an

Periva’s

accomplished

advice

and

offered

salutations to him.

team

of

accompanying artists.

Other prominent artists who used to perform before Maha Periva and receive encouragement and gifts included the following: Nagaraja

Rao

accompanied

by

on

flute,

Semmangudi

Narayanaswami Iyer on Violin; Sakkottai

Rangu

Mridangam

instrument);

(a

Iyengar

on

percussion Umayalpuram Figure 19. Maha Periva on an early morning in the Sri Matam



Assisted

had

performed

Sastrigal had compiled the life

Kathakalakshepams

in

history of Adisankara in the form

presence of Maha Periva.

of

by

several

prose

vidwans,

By Subi Anna

and

the

musical

compositions. He requested Maha

Maha Periva never differentiated

Periva to listen to this life history.

music based on language. He enjoyed devotional music in any

Following

Maha

acceptance

of

Periva’s

his

language.

request,

Sastrigal divided the story in seven

A

parts and presented at the mutt a

from Maharashtra (the birthplace

7-day

for Kathakalakshepam) had also

Kathakalakshepam

on

renowned

Harikatha

expert

“Sankara Vijayam .”

visited Kumbakonam.

Thousands of people heard the

He was the head of Morgamkar

story that was never presented

Peetam that belonged to the

before by anyone.

disciples Samasta Ramadas Swami (Guru to King Shivaji.)

Maha

Periva

sat

though

the

program everyday and listened to

He

performed

three

the story fully. On the concluding

Kathakalakshepams at the mutt.

day, Maha Periva congratulated

Though the performance was in

Sastrigal and honored him with

Marathi language, people enjoyed

gifts.

the pleasing music and dialogues filled with high devotion.

Besides

Sastrigal,

many

other

talented bhagavatars from various

Pandit

towns and villages of Tamil Nadu

Bombay

Vishnu

Digambar

Gandharva

of

Maha



By Subi Anna

Vidyalaya, a renowned artist in

him with the title ‘Vainika

Hindusthani Music had performed

Sikamani.’

North India Bhajans before Maha Periva

and

received

his

appreciation.



Maha Periva had appointed a young

vidwan

named

Srivanchiam Ramachandra Iyer Maha Periva encouraged artists

as the Asthana Vidwan (mutt’s

from all over India by honoring

official artist) and conferred on

them with titles and gifts.

him

the

title

of

“Asthana

Keerthanmani.” A few examples will illustrate his support to the cause of classical music. 

In appreciation of singing Tamil compositions, Maha Periva had honored Papanasam Sivan, a well-known singer composer in Tamil. He conferred on Sivan the

title

of

‘Sivapunyagana

Mani’ on his 60th birthday and

added prestige to Tamil music. 

Venkatagiriappa, player

from

a Mysore

Veena had

performed a few concerts at the mutt. Maha Periva honored

Figure 20. Maha Periva in a Simhaasanam



By Subi Anna

In the year 1934, during a visit to An instrument that adds prestige

Kaasi (now Varanasi), Maha Periva

to

attended

Carnatic

music

is

the

a

Nadaswaram. Even villagers enjoy

Hindustani

the

nadaswaram

music

from

this

wind

instrument but it is difficult to

conference music.

artists

on

Mutt’s

were

also

invited to this conference.

handle this instrument. With

permission

from

Maha

This instrument in its smaller is

Periva, the artists played at this

called Thimiri and Pari in large

conference some of the rare

size. During Maha Periva ’s time, a

Hindustani ragas using the Thimiri

child prodigy called Narayanan

nadaswaram.

used to play thimiri in the mutt. He passed away at a young age.

The Hindustani artists were held in awe at their performance. Maha

Later,

Nadaswaram

artist

Periva

provided

great

Kumbakonam Kandaswamy and

encouragement to all nadaswara

his

vidwans who later became very

sons

Kumararathnam

and

Chinnayya played the nadaswaram

popular among the people.

at the mutt. It is noteworthy that Maha Periva Nadaswaram music was played

fondly supported for over 40 years

every day as a part of Maha

six families of nadaswaram groups

Periva's worship rituals in the

that traveled with Maha Periva all

mutt. Over time, the smaller size

over.

of

Nadswaram

has

almost

vanished.



By Subi Anna


Maha Periva Life Hist Vol 1

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