Postal department honours Chitrapur Mutt

KARWAR: Chitrapur Mutt at Shirali near Bhatkal was honoured by the postal department recently by bringing out special commemorative postal stamps of Rs 5 denominations on the mutt in the presence of Parama Poojya Sadyojat Shankarashram Swamiji, the pontiff of the Mutt, acknowledging its work in the field of social work.The Mutt, which propagates Adwaita Philosophy, was established in 1757 by Parijnanashram Swamiji.He was said to have brought the idol of lord Bhavanishankar from Varanasi and consecrated the temple at Shirali.Since then the mutt is not only involved in imparting spiritual knowledge, but engaged in spreading education by establishing the schools. The Vaidika Pathashala in the mutt premises, Goshala for the protection of local breed of cattle, vocational guidance courses encouraging self employment, interest free loan for the poor agriculturists, free meals and health project are the testimony for the involvement of the mutt in emancipation of the society.The museum that is developed by the mutt has plenty of rare collection of sculptures, antiques, ancient books, scriptures on palm leaves.It has been a major attractions for tourists. The concern of the mutt for the protection of environment by growing trees is noteworthy.The mutt encouraged widow marriages and discourages child marriage. Its devotees have spread not only in the state, but in neighbouring Maharashtra and other states also.