Adi Shankaracharya (c. 8th century CE) was a profound philosopher and the greatest proponent of Advaita Vedanta. Born in Kalady, Kerala, he was a divine prodigy who mastered the Vedas at a tender age. He travelled across the length and breadth of the Indian subcontinent, debating scholars, revitalising Vedic learning, and unifying the diverse sects of Hinduism under the banner of Non-Dualism (Advaita).

Establishment of the Four Mathas

To preserve the essence of Sanatana Dharma for eternity, he founded four cardinal monastic centres (Amnaya Peethams) in the four corners of India. Each Matha specializes in one of the four Vedas and continues the unbroken lineage of his disciples to this day.