Swami Hiteshwaranand Saraswati to Become Mewar’s First Mahamandaleshwar at Maha Kumbh
Mahakumbh Nagar, January 24 : For the first time in history, a saint from the Mewar region will ascend to the revered position of Mahamandaleshwar at the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. Swami Hiteshwaranand Saraswati will be officially anointed in a grand Patta Abhishek ceremony on January 26. A disciple of Mahant Swami Durgeshanand Saraswati of Shri Manav Kalyan Ashram, Swami Hiteshwaranand’s elevation has been unanimously endorsed by the Shri Panchayati Nirvani Akhara during a religious conclave attended by prominent saints from across the nation.
This prestigious designation, second only to Shankaracharya, is a hallmark of spiritual and religious excellence in Sanatan Dharma, reflecting the honoree’s extraordinary dedication to a life of service, devotion, and enlightenment.
Journey to Becoming Mahamandaleshwar
Swami Hiteshwaranand Saraswati’s path to becoming Mahamandaleshwar has been one of rigorous discipline and spiritual commitment. In an exclusive interview with Hindustan Samachar, Swami Hiteshwaranand shared insights into his spiritual journey, which began under the guidance of Mahant Swami Durgeshanand Saraswati.
In April 2021, Swami Durgeshanand Saraswati anointed Ghanshyam Brahmachari Bavji, the presiding priest of the 550-year-old Mahadev Temple at Katawala Math in Chavand, as his disciple. Ghanshyam Bavji, now known as Swami Hiteshwaranand Saraswati, has since dedicated his life to the principles of Sanatan Dharma and service to humanity.
Life of Swami Hiteshwaranand Saraswati
Born as Ghanshyam Bavji in Chanod, Sumerpur, Pali District, Swami Hiteshwaranand belongs to the Shrimali Brahmin lineage. His mother, Hulasi Devi, played a pivotal role in shaping his spiritual values. Under the influence of his maternal family in Kelwara, Kumbhalgarh, Ghanshyam Bavji embraced Brahmacharya and eventually transitioned to the life of a sannyasi.
For over 14 years, Swami Hiteshwaranand has resided at the Katawala Math in Chavand, following the teachings of his guru, Swami Durgeshanand Saraswati. His unwavering commitment to service was evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when he donated his entire personal wealth to support tribal welfare initiatives.
The Process of Becoming Mahamandaleshwar
Achieving the title of Mahamandaleshwar is a long and challenging journey. In the hierarchical structure of an akhara, one begins as a sannyasi and gradually progresses through ranks such as Mahapurush, Kotwal, Thanapati, Asandhari, and Mahant before being considered for the title of Mahamandaleshwar.
The responsibilities of a Mahamandaleshwar include propagating Sanatan Dharma, sharing their spiritual wisdom, and guiding humanity toward a path of righteousness and harmony.
The Ritual of Patta Abhishek
The Patta Abhishek ceremony is a sacred ritual that symbolizes the culmination of a saint’s spiritual journey. Before becoming a sannyasi, the individual undergoes a symbolic pinddaan (offering for ancestral liberation), which they perform for themselves and their ancestors.
During the Patta Abhishek, the initiate’s shikha (tuft of hair) is cut, symbolizing detachment from worldly ties, followed by an elaborate anointment with panchamrit (a mixture of milk, ghee, honey, curd, and sugar). The akhara presents the honoree with a ceremonial cloth, and saints from the 13 akharas formally welcome the new Mahamandaleshwar by bestowing the sacred patta (scroll).
A Legacy Rooted in Service
Swami Hiteshwaranand Saraswati has dedicated his life to uplifting society through spiritual guidance and charitable initiatives. His contributions to tribal welfare and his efforts to preserve the rich spiritual heritage of Mewar have made him a role model for future generations.
His elevation to Mahamandaleshwar not only honors his personal achievements but also highlights the significance of Katawala Math, a spiritual center steeped in the legacy of Maharana Pratap’s Nirvana Bhoomi, Chavand.
