Avadhutha Sangham Remembers Guru’s Life at Aruvipuram

Neyyar River originates from Agastyakootam, the abode of Sage Agastya, and flows into the Arabian Sea, splashing its waters on rocks and banks. Aruvipuram is a place with scenic beauty. Sri Narayana Guru came to Aruvipuram after performing penance at Marutwamala. He took a Shiva Lingam from the river and installed it at the present place, with forest deities and stars as witnesses.

There was not even a temporary building that could be described as a temple. There was no Brahmanical consecration ceremony or any musical performance. That is the Aruvipuram Shiva Pratishtha, which rewrote the cultural history of modern Kerala. Navajyoti Sri Karunakara Guru’s life here was a divine appointment. Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam of his householder followers was held at Aruvipuram. It was in this temple courtyard that the order of monks was formed. Many of Sri Narayana Guru’s major works were composed during the Aruvipuram period.

Navjyoti Sri Karunakara Guru performed pooja rituals in this temple at Aruvipuram. There was no one to help Guru in the Aruvipuram ashram. The hard work without rest had left the Guru exhausted, and he fell unconscious one day. Renowned physicians like Dr. KN Pai and Sri Kakkakudi Padmanabhan Vaidyar took turns to treat him. Yet no one could remedy the worry of Guru’s mind, because Guru’s spiritual journey was to find a perfect Guru.

He could find his spiritual mentor during his life here. Santhigiri Ashram Vice President Swami Nirmohatma Jnana Thapasvi explained the connection between Guru and Aruvipuram, to the Yatris.