The Shankaracharyas and the Legacy of Adi Shankara: Understanding the Hindu Philosophical Tradition

Introduction:
• The upcoming inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 22 has drawn attention to the absence of the four Shankaracharyas, the revered heads of Hindu mathas, from the event. These mathas, situated in Dwarka, Joshimath, Puri, and Sringeri, trace their roots back to the renowned religious scholar and philosopher, Adi Shankara. This reframing will delve into the reasons behind their decision and explore the significance of Adi Shankara’s life and philosophy.
Why the Shankaracharyas are Skipping the Inauguration:
• While the seers from Dwarka and Sringeri have not explicitly stated their reasons, those from Joshimath and Puri have voiced concerns. Puri’s Shankaracharya, Nischalananda Saraswati, expressed reservations about the Prime Minister inaugurating the temple, questioning the role of the seers during the event. Jyotir Matha’s Shankaracharya, Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, highlighted non-adherence to religious scriptures as his reason, citing a rush in the consecration process.
Unveiling the Shankaracharyas:
• The title “Shankaracharya,” meaning ‘teacher of the way of Shankara,’ is held by the heads of the four cardinal mathas established by Adi Shankara. While historical evidence prior to the 14th century is limited, these mathas, located in Dwarka, Joshimath, Puri, and Sringeri, play a crucial role in preserving Shankara’s tradition. The retrospective establishment of their lineage serves to legitimize these monasteries, which have evolved into centers of knowledge and learning.
The Life of Adi Shankara:
• Adi Shankara, born in Kalady village in Kerala, is a pivotal figure in Hinduism. Legend has it that a crocodile, holding young Shankara, led to his mother allowing him to take sanyas. This marked the beginning of his ascetic journey. Adi Shankara traversed the Indian subcontinent, challenging prevailing philosophical traditions, establishing mathas, and contributing to Advaita Vedanta.
Advaita Vedanta: Shankara’s Philosophical Legacy:
• Shankara is closely associated with Advaita Vedanta, a school of Hindu philosophy emphasizing radical nondualism. Advaita Vedanta asserts the illusory nature of perception (maya) and identifies brahman as the sole true reality, transcending empirical plurality. Shankara’s works, including commentaries on Upanishads, Brahmasutra, and Bhagavad Gita, form the cornerstone of this philosophical tradition.
Shankara’s Enduring Legacy:
• Beyond metaphysics and theology, Shankara’s legacy is profound. His extensive travels are interpreted as a nationalistic endeavor, intertwining faith, philosophy, and geography to envision a Hindu India transcending political boundaries. The four cardinal mathas, situated across India, are considered custodians of Hindu faith and traditions, underscoring their significance.
Conclusion:
• In light of the Shankaracharyas’ decision not to attend the Ayodhya temple inauguration, it becomes evident that their actions carry substantial symbolic weight. Adi Shankara’s legacy, spanning philosophy, geography, and faith, continues to shape Hinduism’s essence. Understanding the intricacies of their philosophy and the historical context enriches our comprehension of the profound impact these spiritual leaders have had on Hindu thought.