Throughout his lifetime and beyond, Sree Narayana Guru acquired a multitude of disciples hailing from diverse backgrounds encompassing various castes, creeds, religions, regions, and professions. His teachings and principles, renowned for their wisdom and enlightenment, acted as a powerful magnet, attracting individuals from all walks of life.
Most prominent among them are:
Kumaran Asan : Kumaran Asan (1873-1924) held a significant position in the cultural landscape of Kerala, where he was regarded as one of the triumvirate poets. His eminence extended beyond the realms of literature, as he embraced the roles of a philosopher, social reformer, and a revered disciple of Sree Narayana Guru. Drawing a parallel to the encounter between Naren (Swami Vivekananda) and Sri Ramakrishna, Kumaran Asan’s meeting with Sree Narayana Guru showcased a similar profound connection. However, unlike Naren, who eventually ascended to the rank of a Swami, Kumaran Asan opted to remain a lay disciple of Narayana Guru, dedicating himself to leaving a lasting impact in the domains of poetry, literature, and the advancement of society.
Dr. Padmanabhan Palpu : Dr. Padmanabhan Palpu, an influential figure of the Indian Renaissance movement during the pre-Independence era, stands as one of its timeless champions. Though professionally trained as a bacteriologist, dedicated to combating the perils of germs, circumstances led him down the path of social revolution, fighting against man-made social injustices. As a social reformer, Dr. Palpu firmly embraced the principle of Dharma, embodying absolute truth, selfless love, and benevolent service. His philanthropic endeavors, serving as a trusted ally to Sree Narayana Guru, were all directed towards this noble objective. Notably, his unwavering commitment to the cause is evident in his courageous campaign against the treachery of organized deception perpetuated by both religious and bureaucratic institutions. This bold undertaking serves as a testament to the unwavering faith of this esteemed social reformer.
Mitavadi Krishnan : C. Krishnan played a pivotal role in catalyzing a profound societal transformation in Kerala, which was plagued by ignorance, superstition, casteism, poverty, untouchability, and various other detrimental practices. As a staunch advocate for human rights, he tirelessly advocated for the principles of humanism, social justice, and democratic values. His notable publication, the newspaper ‘Mitavadi,’ which ran from 1913 to 1938 in Calicut, served as a powerful vehicle for disseminating the message of the reform movement. Recognized as ‘Mitavadi’ C. Krishnan, he became synonymous with his newspaper, symbolizing his commitment to spreading the ideals of social change. He was an integral member of a dedicated collective that spearheaded the fight for implementing the revolutionary social reforms championed by Sri Narayana Guru, with the goal of uplifting the marginalized masses of Kerala.
Moorkoth Kumaran : Kumaran belonged to a highly esteemed Ezhava family in Kannur and is recognized as a disciple of Narayana Guru. He authored the first biography of Guru, which encompasses the essence of his teachings. During his lifetime, Kumaran took the initiative to erect the first statue of Narayana Guru in Kerala.
C.V.Kunjuraman : C.V. Kunhuraman, born in 1871 and passed away in 1949, was aT.K. Madhavan, born on September 2, 1885, was a prominent social reformer who played a significant role in the renowned Vaikom Satyagraha, a movement advocating for temple entry and the abolition of untouchability. He was a devoted follower of Sree Narayana Guru and was elected as the Organizing Secretary of the Sree Narayan Dharma Paripalana Yogam in 1927. polymath, social reformer, founder of Kerala Kaumudi, journalist, and leader. He was a devoted follower of Sree Narayana Guru. Kunhuraman commenced his career in journalism by contributing poems and articles to Sujananandini, a publication edited by Paravoor Kesavanasan from Paravoor, Kollam. Initially, his writings focused predominantly on social issues.
M.Govindan : M. Govindan, also known as Mancherath Thazhathethil Govindan, was an Indian writer of Malayalam literature and a cultural activist from Kerala, India. He gained recognition for his literary works and his support in assisting Anand with the publication of his debut novel, Aalkkottam, as well as the production of Swayamvaram, the first film directed by Dadasaheb Phalke laureate, Adoor Gopalakrishnan. Govindan’s body of work comprises short stories, poems, articles, and plays.
T.K Madhavan : T.K. Madhavan, born on September 2, 1885, was a prominent social reformer who played a significant role in the renowned Vaikom Satyagraha, a movement advocating for temple entry and the abolition of untouchability. He was a devoted follower of Sree Narayana Guru and was elected as the Organizing Secretary of the Sree Narayan Dharma Paripalana Yogam in 1927.
Sahodaran Ayyappan : Sahodaran Ayyappan, the founder of the Sahodaran Sangham, left an indelible mark on the social movement in Kerala through his revolutionary actions and personal sacrifices for the upliftment of all individuals, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. While some orthodox Ezhavas were resistant to granting equal rights and privileges to lower castes, Ayyappan aligned himself with Sree Narayana Guru’s vision of reform, advocating for consistent application of egalitarian principles in all cases.
C.Kesavan : C. Kesavan, born on May 23, 1891, and passing away on July 7, 1969, was a politician, social reformer, statesman, and the Chief Minister of Travancore-Cochin from 1950 to 1952. Kesavan spearheaded the Nivarthana agitation in Travancore, demanding democratic authority for citizens to participate in legislation and advocating for equal opportunities irrespective of caste, social status, or economic standing.
K.Sukumaran : K. Sukumaran, who served as the editor of Kerala Kaumudi Daily, held the position of President of the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam from 1953 to 1954.
R.Shankar : R. Shankar was an eminent figure in Kerala Politics, renowned as an esteemed educationist, capable administrator, and a remarkable social reformer. He was born on April 30, 1909 in the village of Kuzhikkalidavaka at Kottarakkara, as the fifth son of Shri Raman and Smt. Kunchali Amma. Shankar was an exemplary teacher who had a passion for teaching and was highly respected for his exceptional oratory skills. He held key positions as the General Secretary and President of SNDP Yogam, and played a pivotal role in establishing numerous educational institutions throughout the State. His call for contribution, known as “one fist rice,” garnered substantial support, leading to the formation of the SN Trust and the subsequent establishment of several Sree Narayana educational institutions across the State.
C.R.Kesavan Vaidyar : C.R. Kesavan Vaidyar, born on August 26, 1904 and passing away on June 11, 1999, was a social worker, industrialist, traditional Ayurvedic Vaidyar, and a follower of Sree Narayana Guru. He hailed from an Ezhava family in Meenachil taluk in Kottayam District, born to Chulikat Raman and Kunjalichi. He actively participated in significant social reform movements such as Vaikom Satyagraha and “Guruvayur Satyagraha.” Having studied the traditional Indian system of medicine, he was bestowed with the “Vaidyaratnam” title by K.C. Manavikraman, the Zamorin of Kozhikode, in 1953.
Shivalingadasa Swamigal : Shivalingadasa Swamigal, born in 1859 into an orthodox Nair family in Aruvippuram, was one of the earliest and prominent disciples of Narayana Guru. Their first encounter took place when the Guru resided in a cave near Neyyar River. The Guru imparted Sanskrit teachings to him and later sent him for further studies under Perunelli Krishnan Vaidyar. In 1905, Ayappan Pillai embraced the ascetic way of life and became Sivalingadasa Swami. Sivalingadasa Swami had a close friendship with Kumaran Asan, the renowned Malayalam poet. He accompanied the Guru during his move to Varkala and assisted in constructing a hermitage at Sivagiri. Following the Guru’s guidance, he served in various ashrams and temples, and established a Sanskrit school in Trichur Peringottukara Ashram. Sivalingadasa Swami attained Samadhi in 1919, leaving behind several spiritual compositions, including notable works like “Vedanthasaravali,” “Sharadhashtakam,” and “Sree Narayana Guruvarya Panchakam.”
Sathyavruta Swamigal : Sathyavruta Swamigal, despite being born into an upper-class Nair family, was drawn to the principles of the Guru. In 1916, he left his home and became a resident at the Adwaita Ashram of Sree Narayana Guru. The Guru appointed him as a Malayalam teacher at the Sanskrit school and arranged for his Sanskrit education. Impressed by his honesty and straightforwardness, the Guru accepted Ayappan Pillai as his Sanyasin disciple, bestowing upon him the name “Satyavruta.”
Chaitanya Swamigal : Chaitanya Swamigal, also known as Chaithanya Swami, was the second person to be ordained as a Sanyasin by the Guru. Despite having no formal education, he possessed exceptional administrative skills and the ability to adapt to others, which led the Guru to entrust him with the responsibility of overseeing his institutions. Chaitanya Swami played a crucial role in supervising the construction of various temples, including Thalaserry Jagannatha Temple, Kozhikkode Sree Khanadeswara Temple, and Kannur Sundareswara Temple, as well as numerous monasteries. He served as the secretary of Alwaye Adwaita Ashram and as the administrator of the Sanskrit school there. Additionally, he established the Sree Narayana Ashram in Kozhikkode’s West Hill area and dedicated himself to humanitarian activities and spreading the teachings of Sree Narayana Guru until his passing in 1953.
Swamy Bodhananda : Swamy Bodhananda, born into a middle-class family in Chirakkal village in Trichur district, was a staunch advocate against social inequality. He embarked on a journey to North India and eventually embraced the life of a Sanyasin at Jyothir Mutt in Kasi. Upon returning to Kerala, he actively campaigned against untouchability, caste discrimination, and idol worship. However, a transformative encounter with the Guru altered his perspective. The Guru explained to Bodhananda the significance of temples and idols, leading him to participate in the idol installation ceremony at Jagannatha Temple. The Guru officially accepted Bodhananda as his Sanyasi disciple in 1912. He played a vital role as the Guru’s representative in various meetings and committees, assisting Nataraja Guru in establishing the Narayana Gurukulam in Neelagiri. Bodhananda dedicated his life to uplifting the downtrodden in his home state, and he even established the Cochin National Bank to facilitate the economic progress of marginalized communities. He authored “Sree Narayana Dharmam,” a publication that codified the Guru’s teachings on caste, religion, morality, celibacy, and household duties. The Guru appointed Bodhananda as his successor, but unfortunately, Bodhananda Swami passed away just two days after the Guru’s demise in 1928.
Nataraja Guru : Nataraja Guru, a prominent social reformer and the founder of Narayana Gurukulam, was among the direct disciples of Sree Narayana Guru. His father, Dr. Palpu (Padmanabhan), a renowned medical practitioner, received his education in England. Nataraja Guru, born in 1895 as his second son, resolved from a young age to dedicate his life to serving the millions of socially, culturally, and economically underprivileged individuals. It was Narayana Guru who guided Nataraja Guru onto the spiritual path and encouraged him to become an educator and social reformer. Nataraja Guru received academic training in Geology, Zoology, and Educational Psychology, obtaining his DLitt from the Sorbonne in Paris. He commenced his career as a physics teacher at the International Fellowship School in Geneva, Switzerland, in 1930. Subsequently, he established contemplative educational centers known as Narayana Gurukula, with the first center located in Fernhill, Nilgiris. Nataraja Guru also established an ashram in Varkala.
Swamy Ananda Theerthan : Swamy Ananda Theerthan: Born into a wealthy Brahmin family of Tellichery, Swamy Ananda Theerthan, formerly known as Aanantha Shenoy, was the final disciple of Sree Narayana Guru. Renowned for his unwavering crusade against social injustices in Kerala, he embraced the ascetic lifestyle in August 1928. The Guru bestowed upon him the name Anantha Theerthan. Despite facing persistent threats from the upper class, he dedicated his entire life to the welfare of the lower class. He established the Sree Narayana School and hostel for Harijan children in Payyannur.
Swamy Dharma Theerthan : Swamy Dharma Theerthan: Dharma Theerthar Swami, originally named Parameswara Menon, was a skilled lawyer. His active opposition to untouchability and other nontraditional practices earned him popularity. Through Bodhananda Swamy, he had the opportunity to meet the Guru and frequently visited Aruvippuram and Sivagiri. The Guru accepted him as his disciple, bestowing upon him the name Dharma Theerthar. As the Guru’s first sanyasin disciple with a college degree, his proficiency in various languages and law enabled him to serve as a translator during the Guru’s travels. The Guru sought his legal counsel before registering the Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham. Recognizing the profundity and greatness of the Guru’s teachings, Dharma Theerthar took the initiative to collect and publish the Guru’s literary works. Additionally, he authored several books on the Guru, shedding light on the profound words of this extraordinary master. His work “The Prophet of Peace” became the first English book about the Guru.
Swamy Ernest Kerk : Ernest Kirk, the first European disciple of Sree Narayana Guru to be ordained as a sanyasin, was allowed to retain his original name without a name change upon becoming an ascetic. Born in England, near Manchester, on October 5th, 1872, he was the son of Daniel Kirk, who managed a coal mine owned by their family.
Govindhananda Swami : Govindananda Swami was born in Mulankadu near Ernakulam. Introduced to the principles of the Guru by Bodhananda Swami, he resigned from his job as a police officer to follow the Guru’s path. After Bodhananda Swami’s passing, he became the head of Sivagiri Mutt. He established a Sree Narayana Ashram in Kancheepuram on land donated by a follower of the Guru. His activities played a significant role in spreading the Guru’s principles in Tamil Nadu. He traveled to Japan, Malaya, and Burma to propagate the Guru’s words.
Dharma Thirthar Swami : Dharma Theerthar Swami, originally named Parameswara Menon, was a proficient lawyer. His active opposition to untouchability and other nontraditional practices made him popular. Through Bodhananda Swamy, he had the opportunity to meet the Guru and frequently visited Aruvippuram and Sivagiri. The Guru accepted him as his disciple, bestowing upon him the name Dharma Theerthar. As the Guru’s first sanyasin disciple with a college degree, his proficiency in various languages and law enabled him to serve as a translator during the Guru’s travels. The Guru sought his legal counsel before registering the Sree Narayana Dharma Sangham. Recognizing the depth and greatness of the Guru’s teachings, he took the initiative to collect and publish the Guru’s literary works. Furthermore, he authored several books
Atmananda swami : Rama Panicker was a great scholar in many subjects like Sanskrit, astrology, philosophy and Ayurveda. He worked as a Sanskrit teacher in ‘Vidhyarthi Chinthamani’ Sanskrit school in Tellicherry. He met Sree Narayana Guru when Guru was visiting Talassery. Impressed by his knowledge in Sanskrit the Guru invited him to be a teacher at Adwaitha Ashram Sanskrit School. He joined as the Headmaster of Adwaitha Ashram Sanskrit School. Later he was initiated as a Sanyasin by the Guru and received the name Atmananda. Atmananda Swami was invited by Govitananda Swami to Kancheepuram Ashram. He visited the Ashram many times and helped Govindananda to improve the Sree Narayana Seva Ashram. He wrote and published many poems about the Guru including the famous ‘Sree Narayana Dharma’, which is one of the best books that gives a true insight into the thoughts and philosophies of the Guru.
Sankarananda Swami : Sankarananda Swami was named by his parents as Sankaran. Disillusioned by his family life Sankaran left the house and traveled to different holy places in South India. After staying at Ramana Maharshi’s Thiruvanna malai for a brief period he came to Palakkad and stayed at Brahmananda Shiva Yogi’s ashram.After some time he went back to his native place and started to live there. When he heard about the Guru and his social activities he decided to see him and visited him at Peringottukara ashram. He explained about his mental dilemma to the Guru. The Guru sent him back with some enlightening advices but he returned to with a plan to join the Ashram.
Sreenarayana Theerthar : Born into a prosperous Gowdasaraswath Brahmin family in Thalassery, Swami Aanantha Theerthar, also known as Anantha Shenoy, was the final disciple of Sree Narayana Guru. He gained recognition for his unwavering fight against social injustices in Kerala. Despite holding an Honors degree in Physics from Madras University, he willingly set aside promising prospects in favor of his passion for public service.
In 1926, Anantha Shenoy became a member of Sabari Ashram. His first encounter with the Guru took place in a house in Coimbatore, where they engaged in an exchange of ideas regarding the upliftment of society. The Guru was impressed upon learning that Shenoy was actively involved in the activities of Sabari Ashram. In August 1928, he embraced the ascetic way of life and became a disciple of Sree Narayana Guru. The Guru bestowed upon him the name Anantha Theerthar. Despite facing continuous threats from the upper class, he dedicated his entire life to the welfare of the lower class. He initiated the establishment of the Sree Narayana School and a hostel for Harijan (Dalit) children in Payyannur.
Ramananda Swamigal : Ramananda Swamigal: Ramanand Swami, originally known as Rama Sharma, was born into a Brahmin family in Ayodhya in Vikram Samvat 1795 (1738 AD). He was considered to be the incarnation of Uddhava, a close friend of Krishna. Ramanand Swami founded and led the Uddhav Sampraday (sect). He adopted the Vishishtadvaita doctrine of the Vaishnava tradition, which was originally put forth by Ramanuja several centuries earlier. During his early life, while traveling to Srirangam in southern India, Ramanand Swami claimed that Ramanuja initiated him in a dream and appointed him as an acharya in his lineage. Ramanand Swami then traveled west to Saurastra to disseminate the philosophy of Ramanuja.
Maharshi Malayala Swamy : Sri Malayalaswami was born in a middle class family in Engandiyur village near Guruvayur, a famous pilgrim centre in Kerala State on 27th March, 1885. His original name was Velappa. Nottiyamma was a strict disciplinarian. From the early boyhood, Velappa was ‘stressed on good behaviour. Velappa’s greatness was witnessed even during his boyhood. Unlike other children, he would obstain from playful acts and spend much of his time alone. After finishing elementary education, Velappa had the opportunity of prosecuting Sanskrit education. This greatly helped him in his later life. Sri Narayana Guru exercised a tremendous influence on the later life and activities of Ve1appa.
Swamini Amruta Matha : Swamini Amrutha Matha was among the first women to receive Sanyasadeeksha (initiation into monastic life) from Sivagiri. This Sevika Ashram was established for a special purpose.
Guru Nitya Chaitannya Yati : Guru Nitya Chaitanya Yati, born on the 2nd of November, 1924, and departing on the 14th of May, 1999, was an eminent Indian philosopher, psychologist, author, and poet. He gained widespread acclaim for his insightful commentaries on Advaita Vedanta, a philosophical school that explores the non-dual nature of reality. His profound interpretations shed light on the timeless wisdom of ancient texts and inspired seekers on their spiritual journey. As a devoted disciple of Nataraja Guru, the successor to the revered Narayana Guru, Guru Nitya Chaitanya Yati continued the lineage of wisdom and guidance. Throughout his prolific career, he authored over 140 books in both English and Malayalam, including a notable commentary titled “Psychology of Darsana Mala” on the revered work “Darsana Mala” by Narayana Guru. His contributions to the realm of literature and philosophy were recognized and honored by the Kerala Sahitya Akademi, who bestowed upon him their prestigious annual award for literary criticism in 1977.
Soorya Narayana Deekshidhar : Soorya Narayana Deekshidhar was a revered spiritual teacher known for his profound teachings and spiritual guidance. His profound wisdom touched the hearts of many seekers and inspired them on their spiritual path. Through his discourses and teachings, he illuminated the path to self-realization, helping individuals awaken to their true nature and purpose.
Muni Narayana Prasad : Muni Narayana Prasad, born in 1938 in the Trivandrum District of Kerala, embarked on a remarkable journey of personal and spiritual growth. After completing his high school education, he pursued studies in engineering drafting to secure a job and support his family. During his engineering studies, fate led him to cross paths with Nitya Chaitanya Yati, which introduced him to the profound teachings of Narayana Gurukulam. After completing a one-year engineering program, he chose to reside at Narayana Gurukula in Varkala. Despite taking a government job in Quilon, he maintained a disciplined routine, commuting daily to attend the enlightening classes given by revered spiritual masters such as Nataraja Guru, Mangalananda Swami, and Nitya Chaitanya Yati. This dedication to learning and self-study enabled Muni Narayana Prasad to deepen his understanding of spirituality and make significant strides on his spiritual journey.