Shankaracharya or a power broker?

Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati — A Symptom Of A Deeper Malaise

Dear Reader,

Today we have a piece by Aravindan Neelakandan where he argues that "it is time Hindus radically think about dismantling old structures and build new structures of Dharma based on the principles of true Sanatana Dharma."

But what happened?

Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati, a self-styled Shankaracharya (whose status is court-stayed), wants Uddhav Thackeray back in power, who he claims was betrayed.

This highlights the spiritual and ethical issues within the Hindu fold. It raises questions about the role of Dharmacharyas in modern-day politics and power.

Dharma vs. Power: Dharma is the voice of the voiceless. It is justice for the powerless. It is above wealth and power.

• Current Dharmacharyas often lack this higher purpose, focusing on power and prestige instead.

The problem is of misaligned priorities: Dharmacharyas today are seen aligning with the wealthy and powerful, rather than championing Dharma and justice.

• From attending lavish events to endorsing casteism, these Dharmacharyas seem to stray from their spiritual duties.

This is in complete contrast with tradition: Past Dharmacharyas like Samartha Ramadas, Thirunavukarasar, and Thirumazhisai Azhwar stood firm in their principles, refusing wealth and power in favour of Dharma.

• Samartha Ramadas refused to accept the vast kingdom and wealth placed at his feet by Chhatrapati Shivaji.

• Thirunavukarasar flatly refused to come to the court of Pallava emperor as the former belonged only to Shiva.

• Thirumazhisai Azhwar and Kanikannan stood against the all-powerful ruler of Kanchi because they were anchored in their Dharma.

The current ones fail to live up to this legacy and appear more like power brokers than spiritual guides.

Adi Shankara said wisdom, not social status, should determine who is accepted as a Guru.

So then what of a Shankaracharya who is actually a power broker?

Case in Point: Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati said Uddhav Thackeray was betrayed. However, if ever there was a betrayal, it was the ideals of a father (Balasaheb Thackeray) betrayed by the son (Uddhav).

• Hasn't Uddhav Thackeray betrayed his late father by aligning with Congress dynast who abuses Veer Savarkar in the vilest terms?

• Hasn't Uddhav Thackeray betrayed Balasaheb by joining Sharad Pawar who lied about the Mumbai bomb blasts, adding a Hindu angle to it?

It appears Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati's conscience did not even feel a slight pang at this betrayal.

Need for rebuilding true Sanatana Dharma: It's time for Hindus to rethink and dismantle outdated structures, creating new ones based on rationalism, justice, and true Hindutva.

Read the complete piece by Aravindan Neelakandan here.

Until tomorrow then,

Anmol N Jain

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