History of Shree Sadguru Bheemashankara Swami Samsthan, Math, Sindagi

Bharat — A Sacred Cradle

India, our beloved Bharat Bhoomi, has long been a vibrant confluence of diverse spiritual paths. From the rise of Buddhism and Jainism to the profound teachings of Shaivism and Vaishnavism, this sacred land has nurtured countless religious lineages. Among these stands the revered Shree Sadguru Bheemashankara Swami Samsthan, Math of Sindagi — a living testament to India’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage.

🕍 Origins: Nath & Dattatreya Traditions

Established in the 17th century, Shree Sadguru Bheemashankara Swami Samsthan, Math is a seat of the Nath Sampradaya, rooted in Shaivamata Siddhanta and later aligning with the Shaakta Dattatreya lineage. One of the Math’s most sacred observances is the Bindige Mahime — the Earthen-Pot Miracle — centered around the worship of Kolkur Shri Siddhabasveshvara.

🙏 The Legacy of Shri Siddhabasaveshvara

In the 16th century, Siddhabasaveshvara journeyed from Shivakanchi to Mashyal village in Gulbarga. There, he meditated beneath a suspended saffron cloth — a divine vision witnessed by Kulkarni Ambaraya, who became his devoted disciple. Thus began the sacred Gurupada Pooja, performed on Margashira Shuddha Tritiya — a tradition upheld even today.

🌟 Emergence of Bhimashankar

Born as Sankanna (Shankara) around 1658–1660 CE in Sindagi, he showed deep spiritual inclination from childhood. Initiated by Yogi Gurappayya (~1680) and renamed Bhimashankar, he installed the sacred Siddhabasveshwara Liṅga at Balaganur and came to be revered as a siddha purusha.

📜 Sannyāsa & The Math

In 1722 CE, Bhimashankar took sannyāsa dīkṣā from Sri Shankara Bharati of Sringeri and established the Shri Math at Sindagi. After a life of pilgrimage and divine service, he attained jīva samādhi at the Math, leaving an everlasting legacy.

🪷 Jakkappayya — The Enlightened Successor

Bhimashankar’s son, Jakkappayya, brought the sacred Bindige Pooja to the public, helping the Math grow both spiritually and materially. He attained samādhi in 1779 CE, followed by his wife Lakshmibai in an act of divine union.

🕯️ Today — Living Tradition

The lineage continues unbroken. Today, the Math is led by Sri Sadguru Dattappayyanavaru, and the annual Bindige Mahime/Ārādhana remains the central celebration, with devotees gathering for pūjā, ārati, annadāna, and sevas seeking harmony and well-being.