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PontiffShri Vader Math, Bhatkal
Bhatkal, Karnataka
Est. 1475 CE
Founded by Shreemad Narayana Teerth
Shri Gopalkrishna with Rukmini & Satyabhama
About This Math
One of the two earliest Shaka Mathas, established simultaneously with Varanasi in 1475 CE. The title 'Vader' — bestowed by the Keladi Dynasty — has since become part of the title of every Pontiff of Partagali Math. The Vrindavans of the 1st and 3rd Pontiffs are enshrined here.
History
- After establishing the Varanasi Math, Shreemad Narayana Teerth arrived at Bhatkal, a coastal town under the Keladi Dynasty, and established a Math to organize the GSB Saraswat community.
- Guru Shree Ramchandra Teerth recognized Shree Narayan Teerth's worth and advised him to create a separate Mutt tradition for the Saraswat Brahmin community of the western coast.
- The Keladi rulers accepted Shree Narayan Teerth as their Guru and honored him with the prestigious title 'Vader.' Since then, all Swamijis of the Math carry this title.
- The Math became the spiritual anchor for the GSB community along the Konkan coast, which was undergoing upheaval due to Portuguese presence in Goa.
- The Vrindavan of the 1st Pontiff Shreemad Narayana Teerth and the 3rd Pontiff Shreemad Jeevottam Teerth are both located here, near the Gopi River — making this Math especially sacred.
Vrindavanas
Shreemad Narayana Teerth (1st) — Shaka 1439 Ishwar, Chaitra Amavasya, 1517, near Gopi River
Shreemad Jeevottam Teerth (3rd) — Shaka 1510 Sarvadhari, Bhadrapada Shukla Panchami, near Gopi River
Building Details
Garbhagriha
Archak Quarters
Sandhyamantap
Agrashala
Guru Bhavan
Pakashala