Sri Vidyabhinava Valukeshwara Bharati Gurukulam
Kudali, Shivamogga
In commemoration of the Shri Vidya Abhinava Valukeshwara Swami, who had served as the 67th Peethadhipathi of the Dakshinamnaya Sharada Peetha, this Vedic Gurukula was inaugurated on the occasion of Guru Purnima in 2023. The Swami had earned fame in his poorvaashram as "Hanagal Virupaksha Shastri," and not only he taught Shastras to notable scholars like DV Gundappa (DVG) and Devudu Narasimha Shastri, but also to revered figures like Sri Chandrashekhara Bharati, the Pontiff of Shringeri Sharada Peetha and Sri Satchidanandendra Saraswathi of Holenarasipura. In his memory, a comprehensive Vedic Gurukula was initiated, aiming to impart knowledge of all four Vedas, six Vedangas, six Shastras, and eighteen Vidyas.
The ancient practice of reciting the Vedic Samhitas, Brahmanas, and Aranyakas, along with the Upanishads, in conjunction with the six Vedangas, has been gradually diminishing. The traditional method of thorough oral recitation is fading away. The purpose of this Gurukula is not limited to teaching only some essential mantras required for rituals.
Rather than focusing solely on teaching mantras for rituals, the Gurukula's vision is to train future Vedic scholars and nurture a youth that can provide much-needed cultural guidance for the present time.
The education here is entirely free, and this Gurukula operates with the support of the community. There is no financial assistance from the government. To study one Veda, along with its six Angas, it takes about 12 years. For those who cannot afford to spend so much time in the Gurukula, there is also a two-year diploma course available for learning the essential Mantra Bhaga and Sanskrit. It is also possible to study any one Shastra like Nyaya, etc., within 6 years. Gurukula students can appear for the nearby school, college, or NIOS exams and obtain a certificate.
Entire education and accommodation will be free of cost.