Question

Which of the following statements about Vagbhatananda is / are not correct?

1. His real name was Vayaleri Kunhikannan
2. He founded the Atmabodhodaya Sangham
3. He was a disciple of Brahmananda Sivayogi
4. He started a journal called Abhinava Keralam

• A. 2 only
• B. All
• C. 2, 4
• D. 1, 2

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 2 only

• Vagbhatananda (1885-1939) was a social reformer and spiritual leader from Kerala, India.

• Life: Vagbhatananda was born on April 27, 1885, in Padne village of present-day Kannur district, Kerala, with the birth name Vayaleri Kunjikannan Gurukkal. His father, Koran Gurukkal, was a Sanskrit scholar and a traditional physician. He passed away on October 29, 1939.

• Key Contributions:

  • Atmavidya Sangham (Self-Knowledge Society): Founded by Vagbhatananda in 1917, this organization aimed to fight against the caste system and superstitions, advocating for social reform. Their motto was, "Awake, remember the Almighty, arise immediately, and fight injustice!"

  • Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS): Established in 1925 under Vagbhatananda's inspiration, this labor cooperative society is now one of the largest in Kerala.

  • Education: He established a Sanskrit learning center in Kozhikode.

  • Journalism: He started magazines like 'Abhinava Keralam', 'Sivayogavilasam', and 'Yajamanan'. 'Atmavidya Kahalam' was the official publication of the Atmavidya Sangham.

  • He was a disciple of Brahmananda Sivayogi