Dr. H.L. Nagaraj appointed successor to Vishva Vokkaliga Mutt

Team Udayavani, Dec 14, 2024, 2:59 PM IST

Dr. H.L. Nagaraj (49), a retired Additional Deputy Commissioner, has been appointed as the successor to the Vishva Vokkaliga Maha Sansthana Mutt. The ceremonial ascension to the position will take place on Saturday morning (Dec 14), as announced by the current head of the Math, Kumar Chandrashekharanath Swamiji, during a press conference on Friday.

Addressing the media, Swamiji, aged 81, said, “Given my age, the need for a capable successor was evident. Dr. Nagaraj, who has been associated with the Mutt for several years and has a strong commitment to social service, was unanimously approved by the Math’s trust members as my successor.”

Dr. Nagaraj will oversee religious, educational, and cultural activities, continuing the traditions of the Math’s spiritual lineage.

The Pīṭhārohaṇa (ascension ceremony) will begin on Saturday morning and extend until Sunday evening, with an expected attendance of over 10,000 devotees. Prominent spiritual leaders, including Nirmalanandanatha Swamiji of Adichunchanagiri Math, Veerabhadra Channamalla Deshikendra of Nidumamidi Math, Nanjavadhootha Swamiji, Siddalinga Swamiji, and Shivaratri Deshikendra Shivacharya Swamiji, will preside over the event. As part of the ceremony, Dr. Nagaraj will formally renounce worldly life and take sannyasa deeksha (monastic vows).

Dr. Nagaraj hails from Honnenahalli village in Kunigal taluk of Tumakuru district. He is the son of Lingayya and Gangamma. He completed his early education at Siddaganga Mutt and holds a postgraduate degree in Economics, along with a PhD in Microfinance.

His interest in religious service was cultivated during his time at the Mutt, inspired by the ideals of Dr. Shivakumara Swamiji and the social service activities of Balagangadharanatha Swamiji. After excelling in competitive exams, Dr. Nagaraj served in key positions, including Tahsildar, Additional Deputy Commissioner, and Managing Director of Mysugar Factory, earning a reputation for integrity and dedication to public service.