300th birth anniversary of Kaiwara Thataiah celebrated

The 300th birth anniversary of noted saint, philosopher and poet Sri Yogi Nareyana, popularly known as Kaiwara Thataiah, was celebrated at Mysore Institute of Commerce and Management.

Rituals and a ceremony paying tribute to Sri Yogi Nareyana was held as part of the programme held on Sunday.

Describing the life and philosophy of Kaiwara Thataiah, former chairperson of Mysuru Paints and Varnishes, H.A. Venkatesh, who also participated in the programme, said the saint and philosopher, who lived during the 18th and 19th centuries, was born into a simple family and was a bangle seller by profession.

“Despite being a family man, he later renounced worldly attachments to pursue a spiritual path, eventually attaining enlightenment through rigorous meditation in a cave at Kaiwara,” he said.

“He was a visionary who used his poetry and philosophy to address social evils and superstition. He is remembered as a ‘people’s saint’ who worked for the harmony and upliftment of society,” he said.

Mr. Venkatesh said Yogi Nareyana wrote extensively in Kannada and Telugu. 

“His ideas remain timeless and relevant, transcending the boundaries of era and culture. His life serves as a bridge between the material and spiritual worlds, guiding people toward a meaningful and ethical life”, he said.