The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Karnataka): Mutts, traditional religious institutions often established centuries ago, hold a profound influence in Karnataka, catering to a diverse range of castes and communities including Lingayats, Vokkaligas, Kurubas, Valmikis, Nayakas, and Madigas. Lingayats alone have over a thousand mutts throughout the state, highlighting their significant religious and social roles.
The Nath Sampradaya Kadari Mutt in Dakshina Kannada’s Mangalore is one such institution. It attracts followers from all over India, who come to seek blessings from the Pithadiswar and to worship deities like Kal Bhairav and Shiva. This mutt is also known for its living samadhis, adding to its spiritual allure.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who presides over the Akhila Bharata Yogi Mahasabha, shares a special connection with Mangaluru, often participating in significant ceremonies at the Kadari Mutt. Most notably, he attended the Paryaya Raja Pattabhisheka, a ritual anointing the new ‘raja’ of the Mutt held every twelve years.
Suraj Kamat, manager of the Kadri Mutt, recounted the Mutt’s origins, tracing back to Machedranath ji and Gorakshanath ji’s missionary work in South India. The leadership, known as the Peethadhishwar or ‘king’, is renewed every twelve years, aligning with Adityanath’s visits.
The Mutt’s reach extends beyond specific religious sects, drawing people from various communities in Mangaluru who seek spiritual guidance and blessings from the Guru. The Nath sect’s enduring presence throughout the country reinforces the Mutt’s importance as a center for spiritual leadership and communal harmony.
Local devotees like Shan and visitors like Bharat Singh Solanki from Rajasthan, who has been serving the Mutt for 16 years, emphasize the peace and spiritual fulfillment gained from their association with the Mutt, particularly during important events like Guru Purnima.
This enduring devotion underscores the pivotal role that mutts continue to play in not only maintaining religious traditions but also in fostering community bonds across diverse social groups in Karnataka.