Jagadguru Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati, the 145th Shankaracharya of the Govardhana Peetha at Puri, is a revered Indian spiritual leader known for his profound knowledge, dedication to Sanatana Dharma, and tireless efforts to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of India.
Page Index
Early Life & Journey
Shree Nischalananda Saraswati, born Nilambar Jha on June 30, 1943 (age 81), in Bakshi Tol, Haripur, Madhubani, Bihar, India, is the current 145th Jagadguru Shankaracharya of the Purvamnaya Shree Govardhana Peetham in Puri, Odisha, India. He was ordained as Dhruvachaitanya before becoming Shankaracharya in 1992, succeeding Niranjanadev Tirtha.
Shri Nischalananda Saraswati was born to Pandit Shree Lalvamshi Jha and Smt. Gita Devi. His father, a high-ranking Sanskrit scholar in the Mithila tradition, served as the court vidwan for the Maharaja of Darbhanga (Raj Darbhanga).
Nilambar, as he was named by his elder brother Pandit Sridev Jha, exhibited remarkable character and intelligence from a young age. His early education took place in his village Kaluahi and Loha and later in Delhi. At the age of 17, he left home to pursue his spiritual journey.
During a seminar that included all branches of Vedic knowledge, he met Dharma Samrat Karpatri-ji Maharaj and the then Shankaracharya of Jyotish Peeth, Swami Shree Krishnabodhashram-ji Maharaj, and accepted Karpatri-ji Maharaj as his spiritual master.
Swami Shree Naradanand Saraswati of Naimisharanya named him Dhruvachaitanya. He studied the Vedas and related branches in places like Kashi, Vrindavan, Naimisharanya, Badrikashram, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Puri, and Sringeri.
He actively participated in the agitation for cow protection led by Dharma Samrat Karpatriji Maharaj and was imprisoned in Tihar Jail for 52 days in 1966 for advocating this cause.
On Vaisakha Krishna Ekadashi of Samvat 2031 (April 18, 1974), Swami Shree Karpatriji Maharaj initiated him into the sanyasa order, bestowing upon him the name Nischalananda Saraswati.
From 1976 to 1981, he studied the works of Prasthanatrayi, Panchadasi, Vedanta Paribhasha, Nyaya Mimamsa, Tantra, and Advaita Siddhi under his Gurudev.
Between 1982 and 1987, he studied Khandanakhanda Khadya and the Yajur Veda under the guidance of Shankaracharya Swami Shree Niranjanadev Tirtha ji Maharaj, with whom he spent five Chaturmasas.
Recognizing his talents, dedication to Sanatana Dharma, and unwavering faith in his gurus, Shankaracharya Swami Shree Niranjanadev Tirtha ji Maharaj anointed him as the 145th Shankaracharya of the Govardhana Peetha at Puri.
Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati has traveled extensively across India to protect Sanatana Dharma and its values. He addresses concerns on national unity, territorial protection, cow protection, women’s empowerment, environmental protection, and the impact of multinational companies in India.
He has established two organizations, Aditya Vahini and Ananda Vahini, under the aegis of ‘Peeth Parishad’ to create an intelligent, self-reliant society, protect values, and secure national unity. Through these organizations, he leads a nationwide campaign to preserve the ancient culture of India.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Jagadguru Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati |
| Birthdate | 30th June 1943 |
| Birthplace | Haripur Bakshi Tol, Madhubani, Bihar, India |
| Father’s Name | Pandit Shree Lalvamshi Jha |
| Mother’s Name | Smt Gita Devi |
| Spiritual Guru | Karpatri-ji Maharaj |
| Sanyasa Initiation | Vaisakha Krishna Ekadashi, Samvat 2031, 18th April 1974 |
| Shankaracharya Appointment | 145th Shankaracharya of Puri Peeth, 9th Feb 1992 (Vikram Samvat 2048) |
| Preaching Theme | प्रज्ञानं ब्रम्ह (Prajnanam Brahma) |
Dhruvachaitanya dedicated himself to the study of the Vedas and various branches related to them at prominent centers of learning, such as Kashi, Vrindavan, Naimisharanya, Badrikashram, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Puri, and Sringeri.
Throughout this journey of learning and self-discovery, he actively participated in the movement for cow protection, a sacred symbol of faith among Hindus. His unwavering commitment to this cause led to his imprisonment for 52 days.
On Vaisakha Krishna Ekadashi of Samvat 2031, 18th April 1974, in Haridwar, Dhruvachaitanya formally embraced the sannyasa order from his beloved guru, Swami Shree Karpatriji Maharaj, and assumed the name Nischalananda Saraswati.
Immersed in his studies, he thoroughly absorbed the wisdom of the Prasthanatrayi, Panchadasi, Vedanta Paribhasha, Nyaya Mimamsa, Tantra, and Advaita Siddhi under the guidance of his Gurudev.
From 1982 to 1987, he pursued further studies in Khandanakhanda Khadya and the Yajur Veda with a special emphasis on the Shankaracharya of Puri Peetha, Swami Sshree Niranjanadev Tirtha ji Maharaj.
Swami Nischalananda Saraswati’s brilliance, dedication to Sanatana Dharma, and unwavering faith in his gurus impressed Shankaracharya Swami Shree Niranjanadev Tirtha ji Maharaj, who recognized him as a worthy successor to the Govardhana Peetha at Puri.
On the auspicious day of Kartika Shukla Panchami of Yudhishtira Saka Samvat 2651 or 486 BC, Jagadguru Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati-ji Maharaj established the Govardhana Peetha at Jagannath Puri.
The Puri Peeth, with its main preaching theme or Mahavakya as “प्रज्ञानं ब्रम्ह” (Prajnanam Brahma), is deeply rooted in the Rig Veda.
The lineage of Shankaracharyas at the Peeth spans an unbroken chain of 2489 years, with 144 illustrious predecessors.
– From Adi Shankaracharya of 8th-century to the current
As the current Shankaracharya of the Puri Peeth, Swami Shree Nischalananda Saraswati-ji Maharaj has been tirelessly traveling throughout India, emulating the footsteps of Adi Shankaracharya, to protect and promote the values and glories of Sanatana Dharma.
His discourses have touched upon vital issues, including the unity of India, the protection of its territories, cow protection, women’s empowerment, and environmental preservation.
His extensive knowledge and scholarship have garnered recognition from prestigious institutions and organizations. ISRO, NASA, and the World Bank have sought his assistance, and renowned mathematicians from institutions like Oxford and scholars from Cambridge have valued his guidance.
Additionally, Indian institutes like IIM, IIT, and IISc have also benefited from his expertise in Vedic mathematics and other subjects.
Educational Pursuits and Global Impact
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Pursuits | Studied Vedas and various branches in Kashi, Vrindavan, Naimisharanya, Badrikashram, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Puri, Sringeri, and more |
| Literary Works | Authored numerous books and articles on spirituality, philosophy, and contemporary issues |
| Languages | Proficient in Sanskrit, English, Hindi, Bengali, Maithili, and more |
| Impact on Education and Academics | Sought by prestigious institutions and organizations for guidance and insights |
| Legacy and Future Endeavors | Envisioned a lasting legacy of spiritual awakening and cultural preservation |
| Global Reach and Influence | His teachings resonated with people from diverse backgrounds worldwide |
| Known For | His multifaceted contributions to spirituality, education, and humanitarian causes |
Contributions and Philanthropic Initiatives
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Philanthropic Initiatives | Supported education, healthcare, and socio-economic development through charitable activities |
| Environmental Conservation | Advocated for environmental protection and sustainable living |
| Women Empowerment | Promoted education and empowerment for women |
| Interactions with World Leaders | Engaged with prominent world leaders and dignitaries on matters of global importance |
| Promoting Interfaith Harmony | Advocated for dialogue and understanding between different religious traditions |
| Artistic Talents | Skilled in singing and well-versed in classical music and devotional hymns |
| Martial Arts | Received training in traditional Indian martial arts |
| Technology and Spirituality | Utilized social media and digital platforms for disseminating teachings |
| Pilgrimages and Sacred Initiatives | Undertook sacred pilgrimages to revered sites across India |
| Testimonials and Praise | Eminent personalities and followers lauded his teachings and leadership |
Key Facts
Here’s the informative overview of his life, spiritual journey, and contributions of Jagadguru Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati, the revered 145th Shankaracharya of the Govardhana Peetha at Jagannath Puri:
| Query | Details |
|---|---|
| Establishment of Govardhana Peetha at Puri | Bhagavatpada Adi Shankaracharya established the Govardhana Peetha at Jagannath Puri on Kartika Shukla Panchami of Yudhishtira Saka Samvat 2651 (486 BC). |
| Main Theme (Mahavakya) of Puri Peeth | The main preaching theme or Mahavakya of the Puri Peeth is “प्रज्ञानं ब्रम्ह” (Prajñānam Brahma), emphasizing the significance of knowledge and wisdom. |
| Unbroken Lineage of Shankaracharyas at Puri | There’s an unbroken chain of Shankaracharyas at Puri Peeth for 2489 years, with 144 Shankaracharyas preceding Jagadguru Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati. |
| Appointment of Nischalananda Saraswati as 145th Shankaracharya | Jagadguru Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati was appointed as the 145th Shankaracharya of Puri Peeth by Shankaracharya Swami Niranjanadeva Tirtha Maharaj on 9th February 1992 (Vikram Samvat 2048). |
| Birthplace and Family | Swami Shree Nischalananda Saraswati was born on 30th June 1943 in Haripur Bakshi Tol, Madhubani district of Bihar. His parents were Pandit Shree Lalvamshi Jha and Smt Gita Devi. |
| Early Education and Pursuit of Spiritual Path | His early education began in his village, and he later studied in Delhi. At the age of 17, he left home to embark on his spiritual journey. |
| Spiritual Mentor | He revered Karpatri-ji Maharaj as his spiritual master, and Swami Shree Naradanand Saraswati of Naimisharanya gave him the name Dhruvachaitanya. |
| Intense Study of Vedas and Philosophy | Swami Shree Nischalananda Saraswati-ji studied Vedas and various branches related to Vedas extensively in places like Kashi, Vrindavan, Naimisharanya, Badrikashram, Rishikesh, Haridwar, Puri, and Sringeri. |
| Advocacy for Cow Protection | He actively participated in Dharma Samrat Karpatriji Maharaj’s agitation for cow protection and was even jailed for 52 days for his advocacy. |
| Initiation into Sanyasa | Swami Shree Karpatriji Maharaj initiated him into the sannyasa order with the name Nischalananda Saraswati on Vaisakha Krishna Ekadashi of Samvat 2031 (18th April 1974) in Haridwar. |
| In-Depth Studies Under Gurudev | From 1976 to 1981, he meticulously studied various philosophical works under his Gurudev, including Prasthanatrayi, Panchadasi, Vedanta Paribhasha, Nyaya Mimamsa, Tantra, and Advaita Siddhi. |
| Anointment as 145th Shankaracharya of Puri Peeth | Impressed by Swami Shree Nischalananda Saraswati’s dedication and faith, Shankaracharya Swami Shree Niranjanadev Tirtha ji Maharaj anointed him as the 145th Shankaracharya of the Govardhana Peetha at Puri. |
| Contributions and Campaigns | Swami Shree Nischalananda Saraswati-ji has actively addressed concerns on unity, cow protection, women empowerment, environment protection, and multinational companies in India through his discourses and campaigns. |
| Founding Organizations for Cultural Preservation | Swami Shree Karpatriji Maharaj initiated him into the sannyasa order with the name Nischalananda Saraswati on Vaisakha Krishna Ekadashi of Samvat 2031 (18th April 1974) in Haridwar. |
Lesser Known Facts
Some lesser-known facts about Jagadguru Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati:
- Multilingual Scholar: Apart from his expertise in Sanskrit and Vedic scriptures, he is fluent in several languages, including English, Hindi, Bengali, and Maithili. This proficiency has allowed him to connect with a diverse range of people worldwide.
- Literary Prowess: The Jagadguru is not only a distinguished orator but also a prolific writer. He has authored numerous books and articles on various subjects, delving into spirituality, philosophy, and contemporary issues.
- Artistic Talents: Alongside his spiritual pursuits, he is skilled in traditional Indian arts. He is known to be an adept singer and has a profound knowledge of classical music and devotional hymns.
- Adept in Martial Arts: In addition to his spiritual disciplines, he has received training in traditional Indian martial arts, showcasing a balanced approach to physical and mental well-being.
- Technology and Spirituality: Despite being deeply rooted in tradition, the Jagadguru acknowledges the importance of technology in reaching out to people. He actively uses social media and other digital platforms to disseminate his teachings and connect with followers worldwide.
- Affectionately Known as “Gurudev“: His followers and disciples affectionately refer to him as “Gurudev,” a term that reflects the deep reverence and love they hold for him as their spiritual guide.
- Traveler and Pilgrim: Throughout his life, he has embarked on numerous pilgrimages across India, visiting sacred sites, and offering prayers. These journeys reflect his spiritual quest and dedication to the preservation of India’s sacred heritage.
- Emphasis on Environmental Conservation: The Jagadguru is an advocate for eco-friendly practices and has emphasized the importance of environmental conservation and sustainable living in his teachings.
- Supporter of Women’s Empowerment: He has been a vocal proponent of women’s education, empowerment, and their role in society, encouraging their active participation in various fields.
- Love for Nature: The Jagadguru finds solace and inspiration in nature and often emphasizes the spiritual connection between humans and the natural world in his discourses.
These lesser-known facets of Jagadguru Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati showcase his multifaceted personality and his commitment to fostering a harmonious balance between tradition, technology, and contemporary values.
Swami Shri Nischalanand’s contributions extend beyond spiritual guidance. He has established organizations such as Aditya Vahini and Ananda Vahini under the ‘Peeth Parishad,’ aiming to create an intelligent, self-reliant society, protect traditional values, and secure the unity and prosperity of the nation.
Through these organizations, he spearheads a nationwide campaign to safeguard the ancient culture and heritage of India. The life of Jagadguru Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati serves as an inspiration to generations, demonstrating the power of knowledge, devotion, and unwavering dedication to the preservation and dissemination of India’s timeless wisdom and spiritual heritage.
