Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati Biography: The Spiritual Leader from Jagannath Puri, His Hometown, and Contributions to Sanatana Dharma | The 145th Shankaracharya

Jagadguru Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati-ji Maharaj, the 145^th 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.

Key Fact

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 Sri Nischalananda Saraswati-ji Maharaj was born on 30th June 1943 in Haripur Bakshi Tol, Madhubani district of Bihar. His parents were Pandit Sri 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 Sri Naradanand Saraswati of Naimisharanya gave him the name Dhruvachaitanya.
Intense Study of Vedas and Philosophy	Swami Sri 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 Sri 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 Sri Nischalananda Saraswati’s dedication and faith, Shankaracharya Swami Sri Niranjanadev Tirtha ji Maharaj anointed him as the 145th Shankaracharya of the Govardhana Peetha at Puri.
Contributions and Campaigns	Swami Sri 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 Sri 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.

Born as Nilambar on 30th June 1943 in the village of Haripur Bakshi Tol in the Madhubani district of Bihar, he was blessed with a scholarly family background. His father, Pandit Sri Lalvamshi Jha, was a highly respected Sanskrit scholar in the Mithila tradition and served as a court vidwan in the Darbhanga Kingdom.

His elder brother, Pandit Sridev Jha, named him Nilambar. From his early years, Nilambar exhibited remarkable character, intelligence, and a passion for learning.

At the age of 17, he embarked on a journey of spiritual exploration and eventually found his revered spiritual guru, Karpatri-ji Maharaj, during a seminar involving Vedic scholars.

The venerable Karpatri-ji Maharaj became his guiding light and mentor. Swami Sri Naradanand Saraswati of Naimisharanya bestowed upon him the name Dhruvachaitanya, signifying his steadfast devotion to his spiritual pursuits.

Early Life & Journey

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 Sri 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 Sri Niranjanadev Tirtha ji Maharaj.

Swami Nischalananda Saraswati-ji’s brilliance, dedication to Sanatana Dharma, and unwavering faith in his gurus impressed Shankaracharya Swami Sri 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 Sri 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

Lesser Known Facts

Some lesser-known facts about Jagadguru Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati-ji Maharaj:

• 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-ji Maharaj showcase his multifaceted personality and his commitment to fostering a harmonious balance between tradition, technology, and contemporary values.

Contributions and Philanthropic Initiatives

Pujya Shankaracharya Swami Shri Nischalanand Maharaj’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-ji Maharaj 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.