The Sage of Kanchi | Maha Periyava
Jagadguru Shri Chandrasekharendra Saraswati Shankaracharya Mahaswamigal (20 May 1894 – 8 January 1994), also known as the Sage of Kanchi or Mahaperiyava (meaning "The great elder"), was the 68th Jagadguru Shankaracharya of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham. His discourses have been recorded in a Tamil book titled "Deivathin Kural" (Voice of God).
Born as Swaminathan Shasthri in Villupuram, South Arcot District, Tamil Nadu, he came from a Kannada Smartha Brahmin family. His father, Subrahmanya Sastri, worked as a teacher, and his mother, Mahalakshmi, was from a village near Tiruvaiyaru.
Swaminathan's upanayanam was performed in Tindivanam in 1905, and he became well versed in the Vedas at an early age. In 1906, due to extraordinary circumstances involving the unexpected passing of both the 66th and 67th Acharyas, the young Swaminathan was installed as the 68th Acharya on February 13, 1907, at the tender age of 13, receiving the Sannyasa name Chandrasekharendra Saraswati.
Throughout his life of 87 years as head of the Mutt, Mahaperiyava breathed and practiced the Advaita philosophy of his guru, Adi Shankaracharya. He traveled extensively across India by foot, spreading knowledge through devotional practices, daily rituals, and profound discourses on Hindu philosophy and dharma.
Mahaperiyava renovated multiple temples across India and implemented rigorous Agama Sastra teachings. He made radical social changes by allowing devotees inside temple premises and increased the recitation of sacred texts. He had a deep love for the Tamil language and organized scholarly assemblies to preserve Vedic traditions.
Mahaperiyava's life serves as an inspiration to millions, exemplifying the highest ideals of Sanatana Dharma. His teachings continue to guide devotees worldwide, emphasizing the importance of dharma, devotion, and service to humanity. His compassion knew no bounds, and he worked tirelessly for the welfare of all beings.
He attained Videha Mukti on January 8, 1994, at the age of 100, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual wisdom, devotion, and selfless service that continues to illuminate the path for seekers of truth.