Udupi Sri Krishna Matha regrets remarks on Adi Shankaracharya, seeks public apology

The Udupi Sri Krishna Matha expressed regret over objectionable remarks about Adi Shankaracharya made during a Harikatha programme, distanced itself from the comments, directed organisers to issue a public apology and announced a review of event protocols

Udupi: The Udupi Sri Krishna Matha has expressed deep regret over objectionable remarks made about Adi Shankaracharya during a Harikatha programme held at the temple on July 11 and has instructed the organisers to issue a public apology.

The incident occurred during a programme at the temple’s Rajangana. According to the Matha’s statement, organisers Ankit Naik and Gauri Pandurangi had obtained permission only for a one-hour Bharatanatyam performance and a one-hour Harivana Seva programme. Instead, they conducted a Harikatha titled ‘Bhakta Prahlada’, during which alleged derogatory remarks were made about Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya while narrating stories aligned with Madhvacharya’s Dvaita philosophy.

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In a statement issued on behalf of the Matha, Diwan M Udaya Kumar of Paryaya Sri Shiroor Matha said the remarks came to the notice of the authorities. The Matha expressed deep regret over the “unfortunate and undesirable incident” and distanced itself from the comments.

Pandurangi has issued a public apology through a video message as instructed. The remarks, which surfaced on social media, drew criticism from followers of the Advaita Vedanta tradition, who described them as disrespectful. The episode has led to discussions on doctrinal differences between Advaita and Dvaita traditions and the need for sensitivity in religious storytelling at shared sacred spaces.

Senior Hindu leader BS Raghavendra Bhat of Smartha sect of Brahmin community has appealed for calm and urged devotees to maintain unity.

The Udupi Sri Krishna Temple, managed under the Ashta Mathas system established by Madhvacharya, is known for its inclusive traditions and remains a major centre of Bhakti and philosophical learning. The Matha has indicated that it is reviewing protocols for future cultural and religious programmes to prevent similar incidents.