Preserving Indian Culture is a Collective Responsibility: Mahamandaleshwar Ashutoshanand Giri
Bengaluru/Kashi: In a significant spiritual development, Mahamandaleshwar Swami Ashutoshanand Giri, head of the renowned Kailash Math in Kashi and a respected scholar of Nyaya and Vedanta, formally inaugurated the Bharatiya Sant Mahaparishad on Monday. The event took place simultaneously in Bengaluru and Kashi, with the Bengaluru ceremony hosted at the Prestige Centre of Performing Arts in Konanakunte.
The gathering witnessed the presence of numerous saints, scholars, and spiritual leaders from across the country. The central theme of the occasion was the preservation of Indian cultural values and the propagation of Sanatan Dharma—the eternal spiritual path of Indian civilization.
Addressing the assembly, Mahamandaleshwar Ashutoshanand Giri said:
“Preserving and nurturing the traditions of Indian culture and Sanatan Dharma is a responsibility that rests upon all of us. This mission can only be accomplished through unity and sincere efforts from the entire saint community. While everyone speaks of noble ideals, there remains a lack of alignment in thoughts. It’s time we overcome these ideological differences to build a stronger foundation for our cultural heritage.”
A New Direction for the Saint Community
Swami Ashutoshanand offered his blessings to the newly established Bharatiya Sant Mahaparishad, expressing confidence that the council would serve as a beacon in cultural preservation efforts. He further emphasized the need for a strong, well-structured global strategy to promote Sanatan Dharma across the world, highlighting the importance of timely and decisive action.
A Blend of Spiritual Devotion and Scholarly Excellence
Born in the village of Vishwaspur in Bihar, Swami Ashutoshanand Giri embodies a rare blend of deep spirituality and intellectual brilliance. His interest in spiritual service and yogic discipline began early in life, eventually bringing him to Kashi. There, he dedicated 14 years to the intense study of Nyaya Shastra and Vedanta, earning numerous gold medals in scriptural debate competitions. He was once ranked first across India for his exceptional knowledge.
After successfully clearing the UGC-NET (JRF), he was appointed Assistant Professor at Swami Vivekananda University in Kolkata. However, his inner calling for renunciation led him to leave academic life behind. In March 2014, he took Sannyasa (vow of renunciation) at the historic Kailash Math in Kashi’s Bhelupur region—a sacred center of Shaiva tradition, where Lord Shiva is worshipped in his Shivalingam form.
Spreading Culture Through Spiritual Discourses
Since embracing monastic life, Swami Ashutoshanand Giri has been traveling across India delivering discourses on sacred scriptures such as the Ram Katha, Shrimad Bhagavatam, Devi Bhagavatam, Shiva Mahapuran, and Gyan Yajnas. His eloquent and accessible narrations connect deeply with audiences and serve as a spiritual awakening for thousands.
Promoting Dharma Through the Written Word
A prolific writer as well, Swami Ashutoshanand Giri has authored several influential spiritual books. These include Bhajanamrit, Aarti Pushpanjali, Vedanta Stotravali, Shrimad Bhagavat Saptapadi, Bhajan Rasdhara, and Bhakti Yoga, among many others. His literary contributions continue to inspire and guide devotees worldwide in understanding the depth and beauty of Sanatan Dharma.
