Sri Balakrishnananda Matha, Talakad, is an ancient and independent monastic institution of the Advaita Bhagavata Sampradaya, like the Mulbagal Matha.

Situated in the sacred region of Talakad on the banks of the River Kaveri, this Matha has preserved its spiritual heritage through an unbroken line of succession and continues to serve devotees and the religious community to this day.

The records of the Talakad Matha reveal that it was a well-established institution possessing endowed lands in both the erstwhile Mysore State and the Madras Presidency, together with a recognised body of disciples and followers.

A Government of Mysore proceeding issued in 1920, following the demise of the then Swami in 1919, records the succession to the Peetha and the nomination of a successor.

While approving the succession, the Government declined to assume management of the Matha, observing that intervention in the affairs of a Matha should be resorted to only in very rare and exceptional circumstances.

The administration of the institution was accordingly left in the hands of its disciples, in keeping with the traditions, customs and usages of the Matha and reflecting the autonomy historically enjoyed by such religious institutions in the Mysore State.