18 Jul
Rikhia Ashram - Devghar
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Information uncovered during the Shaankara Jyoti Prakasha initiative to document Adi Shankara's continuing civilizational legacy.
ಆದಿ ಶಂಕರಾಚಾರ್ಯರ ಭೇಟಿ
- Situated amidst the tranquil countryside near Deoghar in Jharkhand, Rikhia Ashram is a renowned centre of yoga, meditation and spiritual sādhanā. The region has traditionally been regarded as a Tapo-bhūmi, where sages (ṛṣis) are believed to have performed austerities and contemplation, lending the village its name, Rikhia. The serene natural surroundings continue to preserve the atmosphere of seclusion and spiritual pursuit that has long characterised the area. The Ashram is today recognised as a vibrant centre of spiritual practice where Bhagavan Shiva is worshipped and there also exists a Sri Chakra as an integral part of its daily spiritual tradition.
- The present-day Ashram was established by Paramahamsa Swami Satyananda Saraswati, founder of the Bihar School of Yoga, who chose Rikhia as his place of residence and spiritual practice. Guided by the ideals of Yoga, Sādhanā and Seva, the Ashram has evolved into an internationally recognised centre dedicated to yogic wisdom, Vedic traditions, meditation and selfless service. Alongside its emphasis on spiritual practice, it is also known for its educational, healthcare and community welfare initiatives, reflecting the timeless Indian ideal that spirituality finds its highest expression through service to society.
- According to the traditions preserved at the kshetra, Jagadguru Adi Shankaracharya visited Rikhia during his Digvijaya Yatra and performed ārādhana and worship of the Mūla Devi Vigraha that originally stood at this sacred site. In later years, the original deity was respectfully relocated by the neighbouring villagers for continued daily worship, where it remains enshrined today. The nearby village temple also houses the vigrahas of Sri Ganesha and Devi, both of which are traditionally believed to have been consecrated (pratiṣṭhita) and worshipped by Adi Shankaracharya. These living traditions continue to preserve the memory of Bhagavatpada's presence in the region, making Rikhia an important spiritual landmark in the sacred landscape of Deoghar.
The above findings are based on local recitations and living traditions, as well as inscriptions and markers observed at the site, supported by available historical references, certain scientific observations, and guidance from the Shastras. As our understanding continues to evolve, we will update this account from time to time as additional insights and information emerge from local communities and further study.
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