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In the hallowed precincts of the Rishikula Foundation, a contemporary gurukula styled multiversity, the eternal sagacity of r̥ṣis and siddhas is not a mere instruction, but a fervent journey of introspection. This institution transcends being merely an educational establishment; it is an experiential haven where the very essence of the Bhairava Agamas and Trika-Darshana’s impart self-awareness to consciousness itself. The self here is exalted to the highest ParaShiva consciousness through discipline and practice. In this sacred space, Trika is not a mere abstract notion; it embodies the divine Trinity of Shiva, his Shakti and Jeeva (disciple).
In this sacred space, Trika is not a mere abstract notion; it embodies the divine Trinity of Shiva, his Shakti and Jeeva (disciple).
The Bhairava Agamas, besotted in the timeless wisdom of the Trika Sampradaya, unfolds a mesmerizing and intricate tale in the annals of Bharat’s spiritual heritage. It’s a journey through the rich mosaic of philosophical, tantric, and yogic wisdom, where the focal point is none other than Bhairava, the embodiment of supreme consciousness, and the guiding principles of Trika Shaivism. To grasp the essence of these traditions, one must delve into the labyrinth of their historical context, philosophical underpinnings, and the practical dimensions they encompass.
The Bhairava Agamas serve as the keystone scripture within the Trika Sampradaya, a non-dual Shaivite tradition that blossomed in the enchanting valleys of Kashmir. Trika, signifying “threefold,” beckons us to explore the divine trinity of God (Shiva), His Energy (Shakti), and the individual soul (Jeeva). Bhairava, a fierce and transformative manifestation of Shiva, represents the ultimate reality and supreme consciousness. The Bhairava Agamas become the guidebook to comprehend and experience the divine through this formidable form.
Historically, the Bhairava Agama and the Trika Sampradaya trace their lineage back to 5000 years, an era when the spiritual and intellectual landscape of Bharat was ablaze with inter-disciplinary sampradayas, later influenced profoundly by Rishis of great wisdom, most notably Vasugupta and Abinavagupta, regarded as the founder and father of the Trika tradition respectively. Their teachings form the bedrock of the Bhairava Agama, advocating direct experiential knowledge of the divine, known as “Pratyabhijna.” Mahamaheshwar Abhinavagupta’s greatest contribution was the collation and synthesis of all the four streams of Krama, Kaula, Pratyabhijna and Spanda traditions into one Natha Parampara. This is the mainstay of Rishikula – transmitting the Natha Trika Rishi Wisdom.
Within the verses of the Bhairava Agamas, a treasure trove of wisdom awaits, encapsulating rituals, philosophy, and meditation practices. It unfurls the theory of the thirty-six tattvas, fundamental principles elucidating the universe’s evolution and the soul’s journey towards self-realization. These teachings are the fruits of ancient Rishis’ contemplation, who sought to unveil the mysteries of existence and the path to liberation.
At its core, the Bhairava Agama champions the conviction that everything in the cosmos is a manifestation of the divine. It urges recognition of the divine in every facet of life, a recognition commonly referred to as “Bhairava Darshana.” This profound awakening dismantles the illusion of duality, as the practitioner perceives the divine presence in all things.
The practical facets of the Bhairava Agama are deeply rooted in meditation and yogic techniques. The Rishis of this tradition prescribe a diverse array of practices, including mantra recitation, breath control, and visualization. These methods serve as bridges to access heightened states of consciousness, fostering a profound connection with Bhairava. Through these practices, individuals transcend the confines of the ego and the physical world, ultimately merging with the divine.
In the world of the Bhairava Agama, the Guru-disciple relationship is sacred. The guidance of qualified spiritual masters, Gurunatha and Gurumata, are deemed indispensable for unraveling and navigating the intricate teachings of the text. Gurunatha is seen as a living conduit to Bhairava, and Gurumatha is seen as the embodiment of Shakti leading disciples towards self-realization through initiation and personalized instruction.
The teachings of the Bhairava Agamas have cast a deep and lasting influence on various facets of Bharatiya culture, from the realms of art and music to the cadence of dance. These principles have ignited devotional practices, temple rituals, and vibrant festivals devoted to Bhairava across Bharat’s diverse regions.
The Rishi traditions enshrined in the Bhairava Agamas within the Trika Sampradaya represent a profound and multifaceted approach to spirituality and self-realization. Enriched by the wisdom of ancient Rishis, this tradition advocates direct experiential knowledge of the divine, the recognition of divinity in all facets of life, and the transformative potency of meditation and yogic practices. It endures as a vibrant and timeless spiritual path, beckoning seekers to embark on a mystical odyssey toward self-realization and union with the ultimate reality, Bhairava.
Making Natha Rishis at Trika Gurukulas
NORTH – KASHMIR | SOUTH – BENGALURU | EAST – KAULESHWARDHAM | WEST – GIRNAR
Rishikula's Education
Reviving & Revitalising Trika Darshana Gurukulas
In the sacred lands of Bangalore, Kashmir, Kauleshwardham, and Girnar, Trika Darshana Gurukuls are set to rise from the depths of history, reviving a legacy lost for 700 years. These institutions once flourished as the beacons of wisdom, representing the profound Trika philosophy. However, with the passage of time, Trika Darshana nearly faded into obscurity.
In the South, Bangalore, the revival of Trika Gurukuls will rekindle the flames of knowledge, offering seekers a chance to delve into the profound mysteries of this ancient philosophy. The North, in the divine region of Kashmir, shall once again witness the blossoming of Trika Darshana, reawakening the spiritual heart of the nation. To the East, in Kauleshwardham, seekers will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the mystical teachings of Trika, bringing a long-lost spiritual essence back to life. And in the West, on the sacred Girnar hills, the Gurukuls shall stand as a testament to the timeless wisdom that has been rekindled. Trika Darshana's revival represents the resurgence of a philosophical tradition that has nearly disappeared from the cultural landscape. It is a call to bring back its former glory, inspiring a new generation to explore the depths of spiritual understanding that were once treasured by our ancestors. These Gurukuls, scattered across India, serve as the torchbearers of this revival, offering hope, insight, and enlightenment to all who seek the wisdom of the Trika Darshana.
The Natha Rishi Parampara
In the incandescent interstice where the corporeal and the ethereal converge, a seeker's being becomes a vessel awaiting the elusive elixir of esoteric revelation. In the past 700 years the transmission began to take place in a hidden way due to the Islamic invasion in Kashmir. Yogiraja Gurunatha Sri Sri Mokshananda Natha is mandated to revive the tradition in the 21st century. Parama Pujya Gurunatha and Gurumatha Moe have already initiated dozens of disciples into the Trika Natha Rishi Sampradaya.
Trika diksha initiation, a symphony of whispered mantras and symbiotic energies, unfurls like the petals of a forbidden lotus in the sacred waters of the unmanifest. The Guru, an alchemist of the spirit, imparts not merely knowledge, but a transmutation of the self – an exquisite metamorphosis wherein the seeker's identity dissolves, casting ripples across the tapestry of existence. As the moon's seductive dance with the cosmos mirrors the seeker's intimate choreography with divinity, the diksha becomes a whisper of cosmic secrets, an initiation into the enigma of existence itself.
The Natha Rishi lineage was introduced by Lord Shiva himself
- Natha Parampara
- Lord Srikanthanatha
- Rishi Durvasa
- Tryambaknatha
- Tryambkadityanatha (mind-born sons)
- Sangamaditya
- Varshaditya
- Arunaditya
- Ananda
- Somanandanatha
- Utpaladeva
- Lakshmanagupta
- Abhinavagupta
- Kashemaraja
- Yogaraja
Bhairava Resurgence: Nurturing the Essence of Lord Bhairava in South India & the Vale of Kashmir
South India
1. Ancestral Reverence: The timeless legacy of Bhairava worship in South India spans the annals of history, manifested in the sacred edifices dedicated to this fierce deity. Our sacred mission is to rekindle these spiritual sanctuaries, preserving the regional cultural ethos for generations to come.
2. Architectural Rejuvenation: The relentless march of time has etched its mark on the once-resplendent Bhairava shrines of South India. The restoration endeavors serve as the linchpin, ensuring the safeguarding of their historical magnificence.
3. Ritual Renaissance: In this audacious undertaking, we breathe life into the age-old Bhairava rituals, from the daily pujas to the grand annual festivals. These rituals are the delicate threads intricately woven into the tapestry of spirituality and society.
4. Community Cohesion: By fostering active community involvement in temple activities, we ensure that the everlasting flame of Bhairava devotion blazes brilliantly.
5. Cultural Illumination: The dissemination of knowledge concerning Bhairava’s cultural significance in South India acts as a guiding beacon, lighting the path for the restoration efforts.
Kashmir Bhairava Revival in the pipeline
- Daunting Terrain: The devotion to Bhairava in the mystical vale of Kashmir faces formidable challenges, given its turbulent history and intricate political backdrop. Our unwavering dedication to Bhairava’s ancient traditions become even more paramount in this rugged terrain.
Custodians of Tradition: Amidst the ever-shifting sands of time, our focus remains on safeguarding the age-old oral traditions and enigmatic rituals interwoven with Bhairava, preserving them from the ravages of history.
Interfaith Discourse: The serenity of Bhairava worship necessitates harmonious coexistence among the diverse religious and cultural factions in Kashmir. We embark on a quest to build bridges of understanding and collaboration.
Guardians of Sanctity: In a land marked by security concerns, our foremost objective is the protection of Bhairava temples and the safety of its devoted followers.
Cultural Confluence: The exchange of cultural wisdom and the harmonious resonance between the resplendent heart of South India and the enigmatic vale of Kashmir serve as the conduits through which Bhairava’s mystique is shared and celebrated.
In both the resplendent heart of South India and the enigmatic vale of Kashmir, the revival and nurturing of Bhairava temples, rituals, and traditions represent a monumental odyssey, embodying the preservation of cultural essence and a profound connection to the spiritual heritage of generations yet to come. This is a communal symphony, requiring the harmonious notes of society, government, and cultural institutions to safeguard this precious facet of Indian culture.
Sri Adichulakana Giri Kalabhairaweshwara Devastanam
Sri Adichulakana Giri : is an 800 year old Chola period KalaBhairava Temple in Harohalli, Ramanagara District. This was a challenging undertaking. The chakras of the deity were awakened by Gurunatha himself, as he breathed life into the idol even while the image of Bhairava reflected in the master through the power of his immense and immersive sadhana. The socio-political landscape would change forever as more than 4000 households were brought into the fold of accepting Kaala Bhairava as their Kula Devata. The temple currently serves the entire district of Ramanagara and is open all day, 7 days a week.
Shri Kala Bhairaveshwara Sannidhanam, Bidadi
Open Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays, this temple serves as a ritual and spiritual haven for hundreds of people who seek refuge in the fierce living deity. Life was breathed into the deity by the master in his Kaala Bhairava avatar. The age-old Bhairava once asleep, now stands awakened and erect, rejuvenated by a matrix of protective energy three days a week, as people offer special pujas and grand annual festivals in the spirit of a fierce kula deva.
Sri Adi Shakti Natha Sannidhim Somanahalli, Bangalore
A unique representation of Shiva, Shakti and a fetus in the womb of the mother as Ganesha, this idol has traveled with Gurunatha and Gurumatha to many places seeking the touch and blessings of Shiva’s innocent bhaktas and siddhas themselves - men, women and children. Gurunatha and Gurumatha held the idol as their child in their hands and performed the world-famous Girivalam of the Arunachala mountain in Tiruvannamalai. Stopping at each of the thirteen temples around the mountain, this special deity, whom they consider their offspring, was offered the same respect and pooja in all the 13 special temples. Never once was the egg-shaped AdiShaktiNatha Linga placed on the ground, but after the visit to the Great Arunachelswara or Annamalai, the lingam was unexpectedly placed at the feet of the mother, Unnamalai, in a final mystical declaration that even Shiva becomes a child at the divine lotus feet of the mother. This lingam awaits an official prastishttapanam and whosoever the devotee is, who takes the responsibility of finding a place and building a temple for this unique lingam, is indeed a blessed soul called to perform a special karmic duty in his or her lifetime.
Sri Kameshwar Mahadev, KauleshwarDham- Karon
The Kameshewar Shiva Temple at Kauleshwar Dham has existed from Satya Yuga. It is here that Lord Shiva is said to have meditated and burned the cupid of love “Kameshwar” Manmata. In Treta Yuga, Lord Sri Rama himself has meditated upon Shiva at this very place. In Kali Yuga. Gurunatha has awakened the deeply entrenched Kaula Trika Shakti kendra at this ancient Spiritual Dham and is now expected to receive the Mahantship of the Kauleshwara Peetham.
Sri Adichulakana Giri Kalabhairaweshwara Devastanam
Sri Adichulakana Giri : is an 800 year old Chola period KalaBhairava Temple in Harohalli, Ramanagara District. This was a challenging undertaking. The chakras of the deity were awakened by Gurunatha himself, as he breathed life into the idol even while the image of Bhairava reflected in the master through the power of his immense and immersive sadhana. The socio-political landscape would change forever as more than 4000 households were brought into the fold of accepting Kaala Bhairava as their Kula Devata. The temple currently serves the entire district of Ramanagara and is open all day, 7 days a week.
Shri Kala Bhairaveshwara Sannidhanam, Bidadi
Open Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays, this temple serves as a ritual and spiritual haven for hundreds of people who seek refuge in the fierce living deity. Life was breathed into the deity by the master in his Kaala Bhairava avatar. The age-old Bhairava once asleep, now stands awakened and erect, rejuvenated by a matrix of protective energy three days a week, as people offer special pujas and grand annual festivals in the spirit of a fierce kula deva.
Sri Adi Shakti Natha Sannidhim Somanahalli, Bangalore
A unique representation of Shiva, Shakti and a fetus in the womb of the mother as Ganesha, this idol has traveled with Gurunatha and Gurumatha to many places seeking the touch and blessings of Shiva’s innocent bhaktas and siddhas themselves – men, women and children. Gurunatha and Gurumatha held the idol as their child in their hands and performed the world-famous Girivalam of the Arunachala mountain in Tiruvannamalai. Stopping at each of the thirteen temples around the mountain, this special deity, whom they consider their offspring, was offered the same respect and pooja in all the 13 special temples. Never once was the egg-shaped Adi Shakti Natha Linga placed on the ground, but after the visit to the Great Arunachelswara or Annamalai, the lingam was unexpectedly placed at the feet of the mother, Unnamalai, in a final mystical declaration that even Shiva becomes a child at the divine lotus feet of the mother. This lingam awaits an official prastishttapanam and whosoever the devotee is, who takes the responsibility of finding a place and building a temple for this unique lingam, is indeed a blessed soul called to perform a special karmic duty in his or her lifetime.
Sri Kameshwar Mahadev, KauleshwarDham- Karon
The Kameshewar Shiva Temple at Kauleshwar Dham has existed from Satya Yuga. It is here that Lord Shiva is said to have meditated and burned the cupid of love “Kameshwar” Manmata. In Treta Yuga, Lord Sri Rama himself has meditated upon Shiva at this very place. In Kali Yuga. Gurunatha has awakened the deeply entrenched Kaula Trika Shakti kendra at this ancient Spiritual Dham and is now expected to receive the Mahantship of the Kauleshwara Peetham.
Natha Centers & Temples Revived
Dozens of Natha Rishi temples including and not limited to the following temples and Institutions have been revived,developed and/or managed by Rishikula:
Kalabhairava Temple, Shivanahalli, Ramanagara Dist
Betadappa Temple, Tavarekere, Ramanagara Dist
Sri Mahabhairava Sannidhanam, Shivanahalli, Ramanagara Dist
Sri Kalabhairaveshwara Temple, Hogenikal, Dharmapuri
Sri Sri Astabhairava Temples, Holuvanahalli, Tumakuru
Kalabhairava Temple, Ahobilam, AP
Sri KalaBhairava Temple, Andheri, Mumbai
Sri UttarAsana Bhairava Temple, Chitbara, Balia
Sri Sri Ruru Bhairava Temple, Tanniruhalla, Hassan
Sri Mahalingeshwara Sannidhanam, Dharwar
Paddalingeshwara Temple, Enagu Mallamamala, AP
Sri Siddhalingeshwara Ashram, Muddhanahalli, Chikballapura
In the near Future
Revival of the AshtaBhairavas of Mysore Kingdom. Eight Bhairava temples were consecrated, circumambulating the ancient kingdom of Mysore, starting from Sakleshpura, Tumakuru, Yediyuru, Chamarajapete, Harohalli-Ramanagara, Gundlepete, Bandipura, Madikere.
Revival of the AshtaBhairavas guarding the Sharika temple, Srinagar.
Creating energized Mahatobhara Bhairava Temple at Beerwah, Badgam district, J&K – UT and connecting it to eight Ashta Bhairava temple guarding the entire vale of Kashmir. This unique and ancient alignment of guarding Kshetrapalas will ensure that Sanatana Hindu Dharma is always protected in the hallowed vale of ancient Satisar, now called Kashmir.
