Shri Susheelendra Teertharu

Sri Susheelendra Theertha is considered the doyen of Madhwa Samaja and the source of Madhwa Siddantha in the beginning of the 20th century. He played a crucial role in creating a roadmap for Dwaitha Siddantha during the 20th century and beyond through extensive jnana prachara (spreading knowledge) efforts. He initiated the publication of numerous Madhwa Siddantha scripts through journals, magazines, and by teaching a significant number of high-quality students who later became scholars. Additionally, he worked tirelessly to foster unity among all Madhwa lineages and other sections of the Hindu community, including Advaita and Vishishtadvaita.

Sri Krishnacharya, the younger brother of Sri Sukruteendra Theertha in his Poorvashrama, hailed from Shastika Begamudre. He received his initial education under Sri Suprajnendra Theertha and pursued higher education in Dwaitha Philosophy under Sri Sukruteendra Theertha. Sri Krishnacharya took the initiative to invite scholars from different philosophical schools to engage in high-quality debates and discussions on various philosophical topics. This initiative led to the formation of the "Srimath Sameera Samaya Samvardhini Sabha," which gained recognition from scholars and the Mysore kings.

Recognizing Sri Krishnacharya's passion and spiritual leadership, Sri Sukruteendra Theertha bestowed him with ashrama and named him Sri Susheelendra Theertha, making him the 34th saint in the direct lineage of Sri Madhwacharya. Sri Susheelendra Theertha extensively toured northern Karnataka and Tamil Nadu during the initial days of his ashrama, aiming to integrate Madhwa people and revive Madhwa philosophy, which was declining at the time.

Upon assuming the seat of samstana, Sri Susheelendra Theertha's spiritual brilliance reached its peak. He was renowned for his generosity and support towards scholars, organizing large conferences of scholars at Nanjangud, the headquarters of Sri Madhwacharya moola samstana. These conferences, held under the auspices of the Srimath Sameera Samaya Samvardhini Sabha, became regular annual events, fostering intellectual exchange and recognition.

Apart from organizing scholarly assemblies, Sri Susheelendra Theertha was instrumental in achieving many milestones. He constructed a beautiful golden mantap and worshipped Moolarama within it. His reputation and authority on Madhwa Siddantha earned him respect from all sections of the Madhwa and other mutts. He initiated the publication of philosophical works from the mutt, a pioneering effort during that time, and taught numerous students who became esteemed scholars themselves.

Sri Susheelendra Theertha maintained cordial relationships with his contemporaries, including swamijis from Asta mutts of Udupi, Sri Medhanidhi Theertha of Sripadaraja mutt, and Sri Satyadhayana Theertha of Uttaradi mutt. He developed a close bond with Sri Satyadhayana Theertha, often seeking his guidance on complex spiritual and philosophical matters.

In his final days, when Sri Susheelendra Theertha was touring the Hubli region and fell slightly indisposed, he hastened to the village of Ritti. There, he conferred sanyasa upon his confidant and the Dewan of the Mutt, Huli Krishnacharya, naming him "Suvrateendra Theertha." On the third day of Ashada Shudha in Akshaya Samvatsara, Sri Susheelendra Theertha attained the Lotus feet of Lord Krishna.