Bangaru Adigalar passes away; PM, Governor, CM condole
Spiritual guru Bangaru Adigalar, popularly known as ‘Amma’, who brought in revolutionary reforms such as paving the way for women to enter the sanctum sanctorum of Shakti temples, passed away on Thursday.
Adigalar (82), suffered chest pain before his death at his residence in Melmaruvathur near Chennai. He is survived by his wife, two sons and two daughters.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Bangaru Adigalar.
Taking to ‘X’ Modi wrote:,”Deeply saddened by the demise of Shri Bangaru Adigalar Ji. His life, rich in spirituality and compassion, will forever be a guiding light for many. Through his tireless service to humanity and emphasis on education, he sowed the seeds of hope and knowledge in the lives of many. His work will continue to inspire and guide generations. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi said he was deeply saddened at the passing away of ‘Amma’ Bangaru Adigalar.
Expressing anguish over his death, Chief Minister M K Stalin announced state honours for the spiritual leader’s funeral to pay tributes to his services.
Adigalar revolutionised spiritualism for a social cause and ensured prominence to women in allowing them to pray inside the sanctum sanctorum, the CM said.
The guru’s residence teemed with his devotees as they paid their last respects and the cremation is scheduled for Friday.
Head of the Adhiparasakthi Siddhar Peedam, which he founded, the Adhiparasakthi (Goddess Parvathi) spiritual movement is known by the Melmaruvathur temple near Chennai and its local worship groups across the state.
Beginning his life as a teacher, his deep inclination towards spiritualism led him to devote his time more towards worship, soothsaying and spiritual service and in the course of time evolved as a guru.
Hailing from an OBC community, the spiritual leader was respected for his friendly attitude towards people. He grew in public esteem because he made worship simple and easy, and because he gave importance to women.
A striking feature of his spiritual service for over four decades was making way for women to enter the sanctum sanctorum of Shakti temples administered by him and his followers.
He is revered as ‘Amma’ (mother) by his devotees who use red garments as a mark of Shakti worship.