A Unique Opportunity for Austinites

Lord Basaveshwara

Humanity is blessed by the presence of many great souls over the millenniums as spiritual leaders, philosophers, social reformists, scientists, writers, artists, etc. Very few souls have graced this earth and enriched the humanity in multiple disciplines. Lord Basavanna, a 12^th century Saint, was an extraordinary soul who was a great philosopher, social reformist, human scientist, gifted writer, and most importantly a spiritual leader of extraordinary caliber. Additionally, he was the Prime Minister in the kingly state of Chalukyas embodying one of the crucial aspects of his teachings – ones occupation/service can itself be a path to salvation.

When Mahatma Gandhiji became aware of Lord Basavanna, he exclaimed “I will be very happy if I can achieve one tenth of what he achieved in his lifetime”. The treasures bestowed by Basavanna have been buried over the years. In the past few years, scholars have researched his accomplishments and uncovered many of his and his contemporary Sharanas’ writings, shedding light on his immense contribution to the humanity. Recently, Prime Minister Vajpayee unveiled a statue of Lord Basavanna in front of India’s Parliament Bhavan acknowledging his contributions.

This is a unique opportunity for Austinites to learn about Basavanna and his philosophy and practical guidance given by him to enable people of all religions and walk of life to enjoy the divine bliss. Jagadguru Mathe Mahadevi, a foremost exponent in Basavanna’s philosophy is currently touring USA. Hindu Temple of Austin has the pleasure of inviting you to hear this extraordinary orator, great scholar, revolutionary preacher, impressive writer, mystic, and above all a reformative thinker with progressive ideologies.

The lecture will address the integration of spiritual practices in day-to-day life towards leading a happy, harmonious life. Lord Basavanna’s philosophy stresses the importance of integration of profession, social service, and family life with spiritual practices. Mataji will guide how this can be integrated in our lives.

Her Holiness Jagadguru Mathe Mahadevi

Her holiness Jagadguru Mathe Mahadevi, the first woman religious pontiff, popularly known as Mataji, is an extraordinary orator, great scholar, revolutionary preacher, impressive writer, mystic, and above all a reformative thinker with progressive ideologies. She ascended the Jaganmata Akkamahadevi Anubhava Peetha established at Dharwar, Karnataka as the first woman Jagadguru on April 21, 1970. Ever since, Mataji has worked towards awakening the masses to religious, social, spiritual, and intellectual enlightenment. Working relentlessly through powerful writings and lectures, Mataji has launched a non-sectarian campaign, reaching people across India as well as the world. She founded the Vishwa Kalyana Mission in 1977 primarily to propagate the universal values of Lord Basavanna, as well as assist socially/economically deprived. She established the Basava Dharma Peetha trust in 1992 to spread the gospel of guru Basavanna. Mataji visualized and started Sharana Mela, an annual congregation of sharanas that has successfully grown over the years. Mataji has written over 75 books and numerous articles, several of her books have received awards, including the State literary award. She is also the editor of a Kalyana Kirana, a socio-spiritual monthly magazine.

Mataji having recognized the treasure of universal value in Lord Basavanna’ teachings, has dedicated her life towards propagating it universally. She has embedded one of the core values of Basvanna – Jangama Seva – the service to the society and has relentlessly pursued towards all aspects of social upliftment. Mataji founded the Vishwa Dharma Mission in 1973 to propagate a universal religion under the guidance of her Guru Swami Lingananda. This is based on a casteless society, as envisaged by Guru Basavanna in the 12th century. This mission arranges lectures and training camps in cities, towns and villages. The mission is training many preachers and social workers, who will take up the unfulfilled desire of the 12th century Sharanas to propagate a universal religion. In 1977, Mataji founded Vishwa Kalyana Mission, which is providing food, shelter and education to orphans, destitute, physically challenged people and the aged. The mission also provides monetary help to poor boys and girls to further their education. Basava Dharma Peetha, a trust to oversee the all-round development of Kudala Sangama was founded in 1987. Some of the activities of the trust include all round development of Kudala Sangama, Basava Kalyana, and other historic places where the Sharana culture thrived in the 12th century.

Mataji will be touring across the US this Summer/Fall. Those interested in arranging her lectures, seeking her guidance, or receiving her blessings, can contact Universal Center of Basava Center, P.O. No. 92243, Austin, TX 78709; Emial: basavacenter@yahoo.com; Ph: (512) 301-2867