‘Burn my body sans any rituals and don’t build any memorial’: Siddeshwara Swamy of Karnataka, who refused Padma Shri, is no more

Siddeshwara Swami, a philosopher and scholar, was known for his simplicity and he stayed away from media glare. Born on September 5, 1940 to Ogappa Gowda Biradar and Sangavva, Siddeshwara Swami’s real name was Siddagonda Ogappa Biradar. His parents were agriculturists.

Fondly called ‘Siddu’ during his childhood, he was drawn towards spirituality during his school days. After completing primary school education at the age of 14, he became a disciple of Mallikarjun Swami.

He completed his education while staying at his ashram. He completed post graduation in philosophy from Shivaji University, Kolhapur, in Maharashtra.

Siddeshwara Swami held thousands of discourses on Jnanayogashrama’s core values — Karma Yoga (work), Bhakti Yoga (devotion), Dhyana Yoga (meditation) and Jnana Yoga (knowledge) — across the country for over 50 years. He is known for his ability to present complex philosophical matters in a simple language.

Referred to as ‘second Swami Vivekananda’ in Vijayapura district and other parts of the state, Siddeshwara Swami’s interpretations of the philosophies of Socrates, Confucius, Buddha, Basavanna, Bhagavad Gita, Upanishads and many others attracted a huge following, breaking religious barricades. Many Muslims used to visit Jnanayogashrama to hear him.

His simplicity and detachment from materialistic possessions earned him the name. The cotton white shirts and pants he wore did not even have pockets. On several occasions, he refused to receive awards and grants of the government to the mutt as well.

In 2018, the Union government announced Padma Shri to Siddeshwara Swami for his contribution to society. However, he refused to receive the award and said that as a sanyasi, he has no interest in such awards. In a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Swami had said, “I want to convey my unwillingness to accept the great award. Being a sanyasi, I am little interested in awards. I hope, you appreciate my decision of not accepting Padma Shri”

He had also refused the honorary doctorate announced by Karnataka University, located in Dharwad. He had also returned Rs 25 lakh released by the Karnataka government for the development of the ashram, stating that the mutt doesn’t need it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “Paramapujya Sri Siddheshwara Swami Ji will be remembered for his outstanding service to society. He worked tirelessly for the betterment of others and was also respected for his scholarly zeal. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with his countless devotees. Om Shanti.”

Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai tweeted, “Deeply saddened to hear the news of Siddeshwar Swami ji of Vijayapura’s Jnanayogashram attaining Lingayaka (demise). The service of the seer, who strived for the salvation of mankind through his discourses, is unique.”

Stating that his departure is an irreparable loss to the state, he said, “I pray that the Lord gives strength to the devotees of the seer throughout the country to bear this sorrow. Om Shanti.”
A large number of devotees and followers gathered at the Jnanayogashrama premises to pay their last respects to Siddeshwara Swami. His final rites were performed on the ashram premises as per his wish, on Tuesday.