Sri Vamana Teertha, a direct disciple of Sri Madhwacharya, was the original pontiff of this Math and the deity is `Sri Vittala’. Sri Laxmisamudra Teertha, the 27th pontiff, built the medium size chariot. He also built the general dining hall in rock stone and installed an idol of Sri Mukhyaprana there. Recently it has been renovated by Sri Vibudesha Theertha of Sri Admar Math during his paryaya (1988-90). The 28th pontiff Sri Laxmindra Teertha, renovated his Math in Udupi and built a new Math in Gopalpur. He is the author of two Kannada books “Geetadarsha” and “Dwaita Darshana”. The present pontiff, Sri Laxmeevara Teertha was born in 1964 (Krodhi, Vaishakha; Bahula Thrayodashi).
He received Sanyasa in 1971 (Virodhikrithu, Aashadha, Shukla Navami). During his first Paryaya (1978-80) he renovated the Mukhamantapa at the entrance of Sri Krishna Math, and during his second paryaya, he decorated Sri Krishna idols in several ways, which attracted people from different corners.
About Sri Shiroor Matha
Sri Shiroor Matha Udupi is one of the eight monasteries established by Sri Madhvacharya to propagate Dvaita Siddhanta, the philosophy of dualism between God and the soul.
The Matha plays a pivotal role in maintaining and performing the daily worship (Puja) and Paryaya Seva of Lord Sri Krishna of Udupi in a rotational system followed by all eight Mathas.
Beyond temple worship, Sri Shiroor Matha is a center for Vedic studies, Sanskrit education, religious discourses, and humanitarian activities. The Matha continues to uphold the values of truth, devotion, service, and knowledge, inspiring generations of devotees across India and abroad.
Primary Focus Areas of the Matha:
Preservation and propagation of Madhva philosophy
Training of Vedic scholars and students
Conducting daily pujas, yajnas, and rituals
Serving the community through Anna Dana (free food distribution) and Go Seva (cow protection)
Promoting spiritual tourism in Udupi
History of Sri Shiroor Matha
The roots of Sri Shiroor Matha trace back to the 13th century, when Sri Madhvacharya founded the Ashta Mathas to ensure the continuity of spiritual guidance and worship at the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple.
The first pontiff of Sri Shiroor Matha was Sri Vibhudesha Tirtha, one of the direct disciples of Sri Madhvacharya. Since then, the Matha has witnessed an unbroken lineage of revered Swamijis who have served the cause of Sanatana Dharma and Bhakti Marg.
Through centuries, Sri Shiroor Matha has been known for its scholarly contributions to Vedanta, active participation in the Paryaya Mahotsava, and social welfare initiatives that benefit devotees from all walks of life.
Sevas and Offerings at Sri Shiroor Matha
Performing Sevas (spiritual offerings) at Sri Shiroor Matha brings divine blessings of Lord Sri Krishna and enhances spiritual well-being.
All rituals are conducted strictly in accordance with the Madhva Sampradaya.
Popular Sevas Include:
- Sri Krishna Archana Seva – Special puja and prayer to Lord Krishna for prosperity and peace
- Anna Dana Seva – Feeding devotees and sadhus; considered one of the highest forms of charity
- Tulasi and Deepa Seva – Lighting sacred lamps and offering Tulasi leaves to the deity
- Go Seva – Supporting the Matha’s Goshala (cow shelter)
- Veda Patha Seva – Sponsorship for Vedic education and students
- Special Pujas during Ekadashi, Janmashtami, and Madhva Navami
Devotees can book Sevas in person or online (via official website – to be added). Each Seva includes prasadam, blessings, and spiritual merit.
About the Current Swamiji
The present pontiff of Sri Shiroor Matha is Sri Lakshmivara Tirtha Swamiji (or updated name of current pontiff) — a visionary leader, scholar, and guide who embodies the ideals of Sri Madhvacharya.
Swamiji has dedicated his life to spiritual upliftment, education, and service to humanity.
Swamiji’s Key Initiatives:
- Establishment of Vedic schools and Sanskrit research centers
- Regular spiritual camps and discourses for students and devotees
- Promotion of environmental awareness and cow protection
- Renovation of ancient temples and preservation of heritage sites
- Empowering the youth through spiritual education and cultural values
Swamiji travels across India and abroad spreading the message of Bhakti, Karma, and Jnana, inspiring thousands to lead a dharmic life.
The Guru Parampara of this Math
Vamana Teertha
Vasudeva Teertha
Punyasloka Teertha
Vedagamya Teertha
Vedavyasa Teertha
Vedavedya Teertha
Mahesha Teertha
Krishna Teertha
Raghava Teertha
Suresha Teertha
Vedabhushana Teertha
Srinivasa Teertha
Vedanidhi Teertha
Sridhara Teertha
Yadavottama Teertha
Lakshminarayana Teertha
Vishvabhushana Teertha
Trailokyapavana Teertha
Lakshmikanta Teertha
Lakshminatayana Teertha
Lakshmipathi Teertha
Lakshmidhara Teertha
Lakshmiramana Teertha
Lakshmimanohara Teertha
Lakshmipriya Teertha
Lakshmivallabha Teertha
Lakshmisamudra Teertha
Lakshmindra Teertha
Lakshmimanojna Teertha
Lakshmivara Teertha
Address and Contact Details
Sri Shiroor Matha, Udupi
Near Sri Krishna Temple, Car Street,
Udupi – 576101, Karnataka, India
Email: info@srishiroormatha.org
Website: www.srishiroormatha.org
