In a tragic incident, Sri Devendrappa Swami (58), the head of Shivananda Mutt, was found dead after allegedly dying by suicide in Basapur Eje village of Sindhanur taluk in Karnataka.
According to police sources, the body of the seer was discovered hanging inside the dining hall of the mutt premises. The incident has shocked devotees and local residents, who described him as a respected spiritual figure and a dedicated teacher.
Devendrappa Swami hailed from Gulaguli village near Gajendragad. Before embracing a spiritual path, he was serving in government service as a school teacher. He worked as the headmaster of a government higher primary school in Mullur village and had been in the teaching profession for nearly two decades.
Despite his responsibilities in education, Devendrappa developed a deep sense of detachment from worldly life over time. This led him to establish the Shivananda Mutt, where he began delivering religious discourses and guiding devotees on spiritual matters. Even while continuing his teaching duties during the day, he would spend his evenings at the mutt, engaging in spiritual activities and interacting with followers.
Locals say that the seer had been living separately from his family for some time, dedicating his life entirely to religious service. However, the exact reason behind his extreme step remains unclear. Preliminary assumptions by villagers and devotees suggest that he may have been experiencing depression or emotional distress, though no official confirmation has been made.
Police officials from the Turvihal Police Station have registered a case and initiated an investigation into the matter. Authorities are examining all possible angles, including personal and psychological factors, to determine the cause of the incident.
The sudden demise of Devendrappa Swami has left a deep void among his followers and the local community. Many have expressed grief over the loss of a man who balanced both education and spirituality, impacting numerous lives over the years.
Further details are awaited as the investigation continues.
