4. Studies
In the years 1909 and 1910, the mutt’s aasthana scholars were engaged to teach and train Swamigal in Sanskrit works and Vedic studies. The learned and the academicians of the day were surprised at the brilliance and sharpness of Swamiji’s intellect. Moreover, the devotees and followers of the mutt were visiting Kumbakonam mutt in great numbers to obtain darshan of Swamigal. It became essential to find a quiet place to continue studies effectively. The mutt officials chose the beautiful and picturesque village of Mahendramangalam, situated on the northern shores of Cauveri, about five miles west of Musiri. The last Nayaka king from Madurai, Vijayaranga Chokkanadha Nayakar had donated lands in this village to the mutt in the year of Salivagana sakam (1708).
Mahendramangalam was beyond Thottiyam in the Tiruchi – Namakkal route and was not easily accessible. To reach this village, one has to take the local train and get down at Lalapettai and then get the canoe across Cauveri to reach the village. Very few would take all this trouble to come this place in order to get darshan of Swamigal. Considering all these variables, Mahendramangalam was chosen to be a suitable place for Swamigal’s vidyabhyasam (schooling). The mutt’s administrative office, puja were located in the agraharam at the local rich man - Singam Iyengar’s house. Near the Cauveri shore, a
small parnasalai was established.
Swamigal left for this village from Kumbakonam in the year 1911 and stopped at Lalgudi on the way. He established a Sankaralayam and Gurukulam at Lalgudi. It is to be noted that many notable scholars hailed from this Gurukulam.
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