A Vision Realized

Sri Chitrapur Math, located at the junction of 8th Main Road and 15th Cross Road in Malleswaram, has a history spanning about 70 years. In 1953, inspired by Parama Pujya Shrimad Anandashram Swamiji, the revered Guru of Sri Chitrapur Math in Shirali, Uttara Kannada, a group of enthusiastic Chitrapur Saraswats acquired an old bungalow and renovated it as a math. The property was purchased in the name of Lord Bhavanishankar, the presiding deity of Shri Chitrapur Math.

The Building's History

The Math building itself was originally constructed in the 1930s and served as the 'summer residence' of Belangadi Ganapatrao in Chennai. Later, Sirur Narasingrao lived in this building from 1943 to 1953. Initially, it served as a retreat and accommodation for the spiritual heads of the math when they visited Bengaluru, with the Guru using it as a residence.

Growing with the Community

As the Saraswat population in Bangalore gradually increased, religious programs like Maha Shivratri, Datta Jayanti, and Ananta Vrata, which were previously organized in residents' homes, began to be held at the Math. It became impossible to accommodate the growing number of devotees in the building that was originally designed as a house, necessitating expansions and renovations.

Transformative Renovations

The Math has undergone several renovations and expansions—in 1973, 1996, 1999-2000, and 2002—to enhance the facility while preserving its traditional charm. The 1973 renovation converted it into a proper religious building by installing asbestos and zinc sheets on the roof. In 1996, an RCC roof was laid, and the major renovation from October 1999 to February 2000 significantly expanded the facilities. A special rest house for the venerable Guru was installed facing 15th Cross Road, with the Math's Shishya Vrinda providing substantial support for this project.

Modern Facilities in a Peaceful Setting

The site now features a serene courtyard called 'Parijnanashram-Sabhangana,' surrounded by a lush garden that acts as an open green space, a spacious main hall called 'Anandashram-Sabhagriha,' a smaller dining hall, a Yajnashala, and dedicated accommodations for congregations. Even though the surrounding area is now densely populated, the Math maintains its peaceful atmosphere.

A Spiritual Awakening

The Math's golden age began in 1997 after the enthronement of Sadyojata Shankarashram Swamiji. His first visit to Bangalore for Geeta Jayanti, followed by his Chaturmasya (four-month spiritual retreat) in 1998, created tremendous spiritual awakening among devotees. During these two months, the venerable Guru conducted pujas every morning and evening, taught Sanskrit verses to devotees, and organized group chanting sessions that brought excitement and calmness to the Math.

Rich Spiritual Programs

The first Gayatri Purashcharana Homa was organized in December 1992, followed by Shatchandi Homa, inaugurated by Swami Iswarananda Giriji of Mount Abu. These spiritual programs, along with regular Shiva Puja, Devi Puja, Guru Puja, Shankaracharya Puja, and Bhagavad Gita discourse programs, continue to draw large numbers of devoted participants.

A Community Hub

Located at Chitrapur Circle in Malleswaram, Sri Chitrapur Math has evolved from a simple retreat into the focal point of religious and social activities for the entire Saraswat community, serving as both a spiritual and cultural hub that awakens and nurtures the religious consciousness of devotees across all age groups.