Sri Sadasiva Brahmendra Swami Temple-Samadhi is at Nerur near Karur in Tamilnadu.Sadashiva Brahmendra Swamiji is one of the most revered saints in Southern India, known for his extraordinary spiritual life and timeless devotional compositions. His journey from a young scholar to a realized Avadhuta continues to inspire spiritual seekers. He is celebrated for his kirthanas, Advaita philosophy, and profound renunciation, which set him apart as a true mystic and saint.
Early Life and Education
Sadashiva Brahmendra was born as Shivarama Krishna in the village of Nerur, near Karur in Tamil Nadu, by the serene banks of the Cauvery River. His parents, Somasundaram Avadhani and Parvathy, belonged to a Telugu Niyogi Brahmin family. From a young age, Shivarama displayed remarkable intelligence and devotion. He was educated in traditional scriptures under the guidance of Ramabhadra Dikshitar in Tiruvisainallur. It was here that he came into contact with great spiritual figures of the Bhajana tradition, such as Sridhara Venkatesha Iyer, Sri Bhodendra Saraswathi, and Bashyam Gopalakrishna Sastry.
Though married at a young age, Shivarama felt a deep calling for spiritual life. Leaving his family behind, he wandered into the woods and met Sri Paramashivendra Saraswati, who initiated him into sanyasa and gave him the name Sadashiva Brahmendra. From that moment, he dedicated his life to the pursuit of self-realization.
Spiritual Awakening and Silence
Sadashiva Brahmendra was initially known for his lively and talkative nature. One day, his Guru, irritated by his constant chatter, remarked, “When will you learn to be silent?” Taking this as a divine command, he immediately fell silent and remained so for the rest of his life. This silence became a symbol of his deep inward journey, as he immersed himself in meditation and renunciation.
He wandered the hills, forests, and riverbanks, often naked or semi-naked, free from worldly attachments and conventions. He endured all weather conditions—the scorching sun, pouring rain, and cold winds—while remaining in a state of divine bliss. Many considered him mad due to his unconventional behavior, but his Guru recognized his transcendental state and exclaimed, “Will I ever be so fortunate?”
Contributions to Music and Philosophy
Although silent in worldly matters, Sadashiva Brahmendra expressed his devotion through divine compositions. His kirthanas, such as Pibare Rama Rasam, Bhajare Raghuveeram, and Sarvam Brahmamaya Re, are celebrated for their profound spiritual insights and melodious appeal. These compositions, numbering around twenty-two, continue to be sung in devotional gatherings, inspiring countless devotees.
In addition to his music, Sadashiva Brahmendra authored several philosophical texts. His most famous work, Atma Vidya Vilasa, is a poetic treatise on renunciation and self-realization. Written in simple Sanskrit, it describes the state of an Avadhuta—a liberated soul who has transcended all social norms and worldly concerns. This text became a favorite of Sri Chandrasekhara Bharathi Swami, the 34th Jagadguru of Sringeri Peetha. Other works by Sadashiva Brahmendra include Brahma Sutra Vrithi, Advaita Rasa Manjari, and Yoga Sudhakara.
Mystical Powers and Legacy
Many stories and legends surround Sadashiva Brahmendra’s mystical powers. Devotees believe he possessed divine abilities, such as appearing in multiple places at once and performing miracles. Despite these tales, his true greatness lay in his unshakable renunciation and unwavering focus on the Divine.
Sadashiva Brahmendra spent his final years on the banks of the Cauvery River, immersed in meditation. He left his mortal body around 1750-1753, at over 100 years of age. His Samadhi in Nerur, Karur district, has since become a sacred shrine for devotees. His annual Aradhana, celebrated in May on the tenth day of the dark fortnight of Jyeshta, draws large crowds who honor his life and teachings.