Shri Ramalinga Swami

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On 5^th October, the 200^th birth anniversary of Shri Ramalinga Swami was celebrated.

About Shri Ramalinga Swami

1. Overview: He is also known as Vallalar and is a highly famous spiritual figure in South India, particularly in the Tamil Nadu region. He was born in 1823, in Marudur, a small village in Tamil Nadu, and is known for his teachings, poetry, and contributions to the spiritual and social welfare of society. His life and teachings are deeply rooted in the Tamil Bhakti tradition. He was a member of the "gnana siddhars" lineage.
2. Early Life: He was born to a very humble family, and he displayed spiritual inclinations from a young age. He was deeply influenced by the teachings of Tamil saints and mystics like Thiruvarutprakasa Vallalar, Thayumanavar, and others.
3. Spiritual Enlightenment: At the age of 16, he experienced a profound spiritual awakening and then he began his journey as a spiritual teacher.
4. Philosophy: His teachings emphasized on the oneness of God and the unity of all living beings. He promoted the idea that all humans, regardless of their caste or religion, are equal and should be treated with love and compassion. His philosophy focused on the importance of service to humanity.
5. Writing and Poetry: He was a brilliant writer and poet. He composed a significant amount of devotional poetry in Tamil, which is highly regarded for its spiritual depth. His most famous work is the "Tiruvarutpa," a collection of songs and poems that deals with the virtues of God and the path to spiritual realization.
6. Transformation of the Body: One of the most mystical aspects of Ramalinga Swami's life is his claim to have transformed his physical body into a immortal one through deep meditation and divine grace.
7. Legacy: His legacy continues to influence the spiritual and social fabric of Tamil Nadu. His teachings on equality, love, and service have left a lasting impact on people's lives. His devotees still visit his memorial in Vadalur, a town in Tamil Nadu, to pay their respects.

Organisations founded by Shri Ramalinga Swami:

1. Samarasa Vedha Sanmarga Sangam: He organised it in 1865 to fight against the caste system. Later, it was renamed as ‘Samarasa Suddha Sanmarga Sathya Sangam’.
2. Sathiya Dharma Salai: This institution was established in 1867 to provide shelter and care to orphaned and destitute children.
3. Sathya Gnana Sabai: Established in 1872 and is believed to be the place where he held spiritual discourses and shared his teachings with his disciples and followers.

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