Language row erupts at Guru Raghavendra Math, Kannada devotees push back

Raichur: A language controversy at the Guru Raghavendra Math in Mantralaya, which has long been revered as a spiritual hub, has sparked debate among Kannada devotees. The row began when Telugu speakers objected to a Raaya Sloka displayed in Kannada at the main entrance of the Math.

Karnataka devotees have strongly countered the objections, citing the Math’s long-standing tradition of using Kannada, and even referencing the 1981 Kannada film Bhagyavantha, starring Dr. Rajkumar, which was shot at the Math and features the same sloka in Kannada.

Counter by Kannada devotees

Devotees from Karnataka expressed their discontent over the objections raised on social media by Telugu speakers, who questioned why the sloka was not in Telugu. The Kannada devotees pointed out that the sloka has been present in Kannada at the Math for decades without causing controversy.

They have cited historical evidence and film footage to emphasize that the sloka’s Kannada rendition has long been integral to the Math’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

“The Raaya Math has always prioritized Kannada due to its historical significance and the devotion of generations of Kannada followers,” said Upanyasaka G. Ram Rao. He further explained that the Math has been supported by Kannada-speaking devotees over centuries, with previous pontiffs contributing literary works, songs, and inscriptions in Kannada.

Historical context and cultural significance

The 1981 film Bhagyavantha, featuring Dr. Rajkumar and Puneeth Rajkumar as a child actor, was filmed at the Math. The climax scene shows the sloka in Kannada, underscoring the linguistic tradition upheld at the site.

Kannada devotees argue that attempts to stir controversy over the sloka’s language are unnecessary and detract from the spiritual purpose of the Math.

Devotee perspective

Approximately 80% of the devotees visiting the Math are from Karnataka. The Kannada sloka has been installed to ensure accessibility and understanding for the majority of visitors. Devotees insist that the focus should remain on spiritual devotion rather than on linguistic disputes.

G. Ram Rao emphasized that the Math has always respected multiple languages, including Telugu, Hindi, and English, on various boards and signage, but the sloka’s Kannada version is a reflection of the Math’s historical and cultural roots.

The controversy has sparked wider discussion on social media, but Kannada devotees urge everyone to respect the Math’s traditions and to pray for Guru Raghavendra’s blessings rather than creating disputes over language.

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