New Delhi, April 1 – Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid tributes to His Holiness, Sivakumara Swamigalu, on the occasion of his birth anniversary, saying that he remains in the collective memory as an embodiment of compassion, humility, and unwavering service to humanity.
Speaking on the social media platform X, the Prime Minister said, “On the occasion of his birth anniversary, paying tributes to His Holiness, Dr. Sree Sree Sree Sivakumara Swamigalu. He stands in the collective memory as an embodiment of compassion, humility, and unwavering service to humanity.”
“Through a lifetime dedicated to uplifting others, he demonstrated that true greatness lies in serving others. His remarkable contributions in education, social welfare, and spirituality have left an enduring impact on society. Even today, his life continues to guide and inspire countless individuals to walk the path of selflessness and service,” he added.
Swamiji, who was popularly known as "Nadedavaru Devaru (Walking God)" in Karnataka, passed away in 2019. Over his lifetime, he established more than 12,000 educational institutions, ranging from nursery schools to colleges offering engineering, science, and arts education. These institutions are run by the Siddaganga Mutt, which also oversees centers that impart knowledge in Sanskrit alongside modern science and technology.
He was born on April 1, 1907, in Veerapura village in Magadi Taluk near Bengaluru to Honnappa and Gangamma, and was named Shivanna. He had 11 siblings. After the death of his mother when he was just eight years old, he underwent a transformation that drew him towards spirituality.
He completed his primary education in his village before moving to Bengaluru to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree. Later, he succeeded his guru Uddana Sivayogigalu as the peethadhipati (pontiff) of Siddaganga Mutt, a position he held for nearly 76 years.
During his tenure, he founded the Sri Siddaganga Education Society, under which thousands of students, particularly from rural and underprivileged backgrounds, received both traditional and modern education.
Swamiji was proficient in Kannada, English, and Sanskrit, and was known for his discipline. He also taught English and Sanskrit at institutions run by the Mutt. In recognition of his immense contributions, he was honored with the prestigious Karnataka Ratna, the state’s highest civilian award, as well as the Padma Bhushan.