Ramalinga Swami
- Born:
- October 5, 1823, Marudur, Tamil Nadu, India
- Died:
- January 30, 1874, Mettukuppam, Tamil Nadu, India (Presumed)
- Nationality:
- Indian
- Profession(s):
- Saint, Poet, Philosopher, Social Reformer
Early Life and Education
- Born into a family of Shaivite priests.
- Received limited formal education.
- Demonstrated exceptional spiritual insight and poetic abilities from a young age.
- Dedicated himself to spiritual practice and contemplation.
Career and Major Achievements
- Established the Samarasa Suddha Sanmarga Sathya Sangam (Society for Pure Truth Consciousness) in 1867.
- Advocated for compassion and non-violence towards all living beings.
- Opposed caste distinctions and promoted social equality.
- Founded the Sathya Dharma Salai (Hall of True Charity) in Vadalur, providing free food to the needy, regardless of caste or religion. This charity continues to operate today.
- His teachings inspired initiatives such as the Ramalinga Swami Fellowship DBT India, which promotes research and understanding of his philosophy and its relevance to contemporary issues.
Notable Works
- Authored the Tiruvarutpa (Divine Grace), a collection of spiritual poems in Tamil, comprising six volumes.
- Advocated for the principle of Jeeva Karunyam (compassion for living beings).
- Promoted the concept of a universal religion based on love and understanding.
Legacy and Impact
Ramalinga Swami's teachings on compassion, social equality, and spiritual liberation continue to inspire individuals and communities worldwide. His emphasis on universal brotherhood and the eradication of suffering remains profoundly relevant. He is revered as a saint and a visionary social reformer.