Challenging Hierarchical Dominance Claims

Many ancient maṭhas were established as independent entities with their own traditions, purposes, and spiritual lineages. Recent claims of the Tunga maṭha, referring to Kudali, Shivaganga and Amani and other maṭhas as their “branches” (śākhā maṭhas) lack any historical or scriptural basis (pramāṇa).These baseless claims, often linked to an attempt to centralize authority, are rooted in religious expansionist ideologies. They also undermine the independence and diversity of these ancient maṭhas, which have traditionally functioned as autonomous religious institutions.Courts have consistently dismissed such assertions, citing insufficient evidence and affirming the independence of maṭhas. Further, imposing hierarchical dominance through false claims violates Articles 25 and 26 of the Indian Constitution, which protect Religious Freedom and the Right of these Independant Religious Denominations to govern themselves.