In 1725 C.E., during the reign of King Sahu in the Maratha country, the Swamis of Kudali, Shankeshvara, and Tunga Mathas visited Satara at the king’s invitation in order to resolve their dispute regarding their spiritual jurisdictions amicably. In this important meeting, with the unanimous consent of the Acharyas of Kudali, Shankeshvara, and Tunga Mathas, King Sahu allocated the territories: the northern regions were assigned to Shankeshvara Matha, the southern regions to Kudali Matha, and the Tunga Matha was entrusted with the worship of Shri Sharadamba at their location. Notably, there was no mention of modern texts like the Mathamnaya or Madhaviya during their discussion. This confirms that such ideas were promoted only at a later time.(Sources: History of Sankesvara Mutt, Article published in Indian Patriot, April -June 1912 & Sringeri Matt (Its History) published by (Aviccinna?) Kudali mutt)
Tag: Shakha Matham
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.