Pujya Kanchi Shankaracharya Swamijis release "The Holy Sankara Matam" Coffee Table Book at Orikkai

Pujya Shankaracharya Swamigal released a commemorative coffee table book titled "The Holy Sankara Matam",, brought out by The Times of India in collaboration with Sri Pratyaksha Charitable Trust, chronicling the illustrious spiritual lineage, sacred traditions, philanthropic activities, and social contributions of the ancient and revered seat of Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya - Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. The event witnessed the participation of prominent dignitaries, scholars, and devotees including Justice G. R. Swaminathan, Judge of the Madras High Court, who underscored the duty of preserving Dharma and praised the initiative, suggesting that copies of such inspirational heritage publications should be made accessible at major public hubs, including railway stations and libraries, so travelers and the younger generation can discover India's spiritual roots. Sri. Sivakumar Sundaram, CEO of The Times of India Group, recounted the publication house’s long association with the Kanchi Math and recalled previous coverage of the 69th Acharya Pujyashri Jayendra Saraswathi Swamigal’s National Vijaya Yatras , articles by the Acharyas published in The Speaking Tree, and shared reflections on how ancient Advaitic wisdom answers contemporary existential and technological challenges. Sri. Manikandan Nair, Associate VP & Response Head, The Times of India, spoke on the purpose of visually documenting the timeless legacy of the Peetam for future generations. His Holiness blessed the gathering with Anugraha Bhashanam (full-text below ) Following the formal book release, the Acharyas were presented with traditional honors, and certificates and mementos were distributed to key contributors. The gathering concluded with the singing of the universal peace anthem Maitrim Bhajata. Excerpts from the discourse of Jagadguru Pujya Sri Sankara Vijayendra Saraswathi Sankaracharya Swamigal His Holiness’s Anugraha Bhashanam traced the spiritual mission of Adi Sankara, the unbroken legacy of the Guru Parampara, and the enduring necessity of Vedic Dharma in modern society. Adi Sankara’s Universal Mission and the Sarvajna Peetham His Holiness noted that Bhagavatpada Adi Sankara took avatar in Kaladi and, within a brief span of 32 years, established a pan-Indian spiritual foundation Adi Sankara did not limit philosophy to an intellectual elite. From towering scholars to common householders (Pandita to Pamara), he reached everyone through profound commentaries (Bhashyas), simple didactic treatises (Prakarana Granthas), lucid devotional hymns (Stotras), and consecrated temple yantras across India. The Kanchi Connection: Consecrating the sacred Srichakra in Kanchipuram and ascending the Sarvajna Peetham (throne of omniscience), Adi Sankarabhagavadpada established the Peetam to perpetuate Vedic and Advaitic learning. Practical Vedanta - Living Philosophy: Swamiji emphasized that Vedanta is not merely a subject for academic debate, library shelves, or coffee table decoration. It is a practical science designed to regulate individual character, family harmony, and social welfare. Reason and Faith: His Holiness spoke on Adi Sankara's synthesis of reason, logic, and Vedic faith. Swamiji noted that true peace (Shanti) and justice (Nyaya) can only be sustained when a nation stays rooted in its civilizational Dharma. Preservation of Heritage Across Historic Eras Swamiji reflected on how Pujya Maha Periyava navigated the country through critical political and socio-cultural transitions around Independence. When questions arose over modern ideologies and foreign models, Pujya Mahaswamigal firmly reiterated that India's enduring strength lies in its Vedic heritage, traditional arts, temples, and moral discipline. National Integration: Pointing to the historic reach of the Kanchi Math, Swamiji highlighted efforts to preserve endangered Vedic branches across states, including supporting Atharva Veda traditions rooted in Gujarat, patronizing scholars in Bengal, and leading relief endeavors during natural calamities like earthquakes. Social Responsibility, Village Temples, and Community Welfare His Holiness recalled the monumental social programs pioneered by Pujyashri Jayendra Saraswathi Swamigal. These included bringing spirituality and religion to marginalized sections, revitalizing village shrines (Grama Kovilgal), providing assistance to unorganized sector workers, and establishing healthcare institutions and Veda Pathashalas. Dharma as Protection: True religious service combines inner contemplation with outward compassion for every living being. Swamiji blessed the publication initiative by The Times of India and Sri Pratyaksha Charitable Trust, acknowledging the role of modern media and print in presenting civilizational ideals authentically. He blessed the editorial team and others invovled in the effort, praying that the book inspires readers to live lives centered on truth, humility, and service to society.