Daijiworld Media Network - Tumakuru (AM)
Tumakuru, Jan 21: Karnataka's 111-year-old revered pontiff Shivakumara Swami of Siddaganga Math at Tumakuru passed away at 11.44 am on Monday, January 21.
Swami had been in a critical condition for the last 15 days. He was being treated for a lung infection which he developed after an operation in December last year.
The cremation will be done on January 22 at 4.30 pm.
The over century-old Swamiji was in and out of hospitals of late for treatment of symptoms related to his advanced age.
Shivayogigalu Shatayushi Dr Sri Sri Sri Shivakumara Swamigalu PB KR was born on April 1, 1907, was also known as Nadedaduva Devaru (Walking God). He was the head of Sree Siddaganga Matha which provided education to many people in Tumakuru and South India. He was the founder of the Sri Siddaganga Education Society and was widely respected for his philanthropic work by all communities.
Sri Swamiji was conferred with an honorary degree of Doctor of Literature by Karnataka University in 1965 in recognition of his humanitarian work. The Karnataka government and many people also sought for Bharat Ratna for his social service.
Karnataka state government has declared state holiday tomorrow and three days state mourning.