Jangamwadi Math — Attraction in Uttar Pradesh

In the heart of India’s spiritual capital, Varanasi, stands one of the oldest living centers of Shaivism – Jangamwadi Math. My recent visit to this sacred institution was not just a journey into a physical space, but a deep dive into the philosophical and cultural layers that have shaped Hindu thought for centuries.

Historical Background

Jangamwadi Math, associated with the Veerashaiva-Lingayat tradition, traces its origins back over a thousand years. It is a cornerstone of the Jangam (wandering Shaiva monks) community. The math has historically served as a vital link between the Southern Lingayat sects and the Northern Shaiva traditions. It is believed to have been established during the time of Adi Jagadguru Renukacharya, and later nourished by various pontiffs who upheld its relevance through centuries of political, cultural, and spiritual upheavals.

The Arrival Experience

As I approached the Math through the narrow alleys of Varanasi, the air seemed to grow quieter, more contemplative. A sense of reverence enveloped the surroundings. The moment I entered through its ancient gateway, I was greeted with the peaceful sight of saffron-clad swamijis, ancient stone lingas, and the unmistakable fragrance of incense blending with sandalwood.

Despite being nestled in the bustling lanes of the holy city, Jangamwadi Math offers a serene refuge — a spiritual oasis amidst chaos.

Architectural Grandeur

The architecture of the math is a confluence of Dravidian and North Indian temple styles. Ornate doorways, sculpted pillars, and sacred courtyards reflect the timeless devotion etched into its stones. The main sanctum houses the Shiva Linga, surrounded by smaller shrines dedicated to Veerabhadra, Basavanna, and other Shaiva saints. The gopuram-like structure at the entrance reminded me of South Indian mathas, while the use of local sandstone and domes gave it a Varanasi flavor.

Interaction with the Mathadhipati and Swamijis

The highlight of the visit was the audience with the present Mathadhipati (pontiff). His discourse on the Lingayat philosophy was deeply enlightening. He explained the unique concept of Ishtalinga, personal devotion, and the emphasis on inner spiritual experience over ritualism.

The resident swamijis were welcoming, and eager to share the history of the math, its role in unifying Shaiva sects, and its continued relevance in today’s world. I learned how the math has historically served as a dharmic university, where scriptures like Vachanas of Basavanna and Allama Prabhu were studied.

Cultural and Social Role

Jangamwadi Math is not just a spiritual institution; it is a living center of social reform and community service. The math supports education, runs free food services (annadana), and offers spiritual counseling. Its presence in Kashi represents a bridge between South Indian Lingayat pilgrims and the sacred geography of Varanasi.

During my visit, a small bhajan session was ongoing. Devotees were singing Vachanas in Kannada and Hindi – a soulful blend of cultural devotion that transcended linguistic boundaries.

Reflections and Conclusion

My visit to Jangamwadi Math was deeply moving. In the bustling sacred city of Varanasi, this math stands not just as a monument to the past, but as a beacon of living faith. It reminded me that true spirituality lies in discipline, knowledge, service, and inward devotion, all of which this math continues to embody.

For any pilgrim or seeker visiting Kashi, a stop at Jangamwadi Math is not just recommended – it...

NEVER EVER STAY IN THIS PLACE

When I have visited Varanasi for the first time in 2022, I had an idea about this place and next time when I planned to visit Varanasi would like to book a room in Jangamwadi Math as it is near to main temple and on the main road. Having that in my mind I have booked a room in Jangamwadi Math for my visit in Dec 2024 through YatraDham app where this place was listed and booking was confirmed on 10th December, 2024. When we were at this location on 25th December, 2024 around 6AM receptionist said that advance online booking was not available for this location and they haven’t allocated room for me and one can imagine my situation when we are visiting distant places with family we will book rooms in advance to save time and hassle free trips but when I heard that online booking was not available, had asked for manager number and that guy told me the same thing, my father and I after some time would like to take a room in the same place as we spent 2 hours for checking with YatraDham team and accommodation staff however no luck, when we are about to enter details in the guest registration register receptionist asked me to share YatraDham confirmation copy with him and I was refused to give it thought some thing was not correct with the staff, receptionist said he will find out how this was happened but if he enter booking confirmation id in the register I know nothing I could do in the future so i didn’t give him any copy and surprisingly that person didn’t give us room as we didn’t share the YatraDham app confirmation receipt with him then my doubt was confirmed that something wrong with the staff,

I have attached screenshots of Jangamwadi math place listed in the YatraDham app as well as booking confirmation sent by YatraDham team and also reviews shared by other customers in the app, Yatradham.org team also not responding properly when I tried to contact them via email and WhatsApp number,

I have booked rooms at Chidambaram, Ayodhya, Naimisharanyam, Deoghar and Gaya through YatraDham app only but never faced this kind of problem at any one of these places except at Varanasi,

I would like to take serious action against both Jangamwadi math and YatraDham app as ₹2880 was charged for 2-days stay when I have booked the room in the...

Varanasi or Kashi has a corner for each community of India. Members of the community come here to worship, to stay as pilgrims, or to be just in a familiar environment. In my last Varanasi trip, I had the opportunity to visit Jangamwadi Mutt or Math. This is a unique Mutt belonging to people who come primarily from Karnataka and Maharashtra. They are the followers of Veer Shaiva philosophy. They worship Shivalingas and nothing but the Shivalingas. You have to visit the place once to know what Shivalinga means to the followers of this sect.

History of Jangamwadi Mutt

It is one of the oldest Mutts in Varanasi. Literature dates it back to Satyuga – the first of the four Yugas in the Hindu timeframe. The documented historical records date back to the 8th CE. However, it is hard to verify the exact date. It is said that Raja Jaichand donated land for this Mutt that has seen an unbroken lineage of 86 Jagatgurus. Present Peethadhipati or the Guru of the Peeth is Shri Jagadguru Chandrashekhar Shivacharya Mahaswami. The Mutt has seen women Gurus like Dharma...