Whispers of Ancient India: Discovering the Enchanting Ramchandrapura Math and its Bovine Heritage

Journey into the Heart of Karnataka: Ramchandrapura Math in Focus

Imagine embarking on a journey to a place where the whispers of ancient India blend seamlessly with the serene beauty of nature. Welcome to the enchanting Ramchandrapura Math, tucked away in the Shimoga district, amidst the lush Western Ghats of Karnataka. This idyllic spot is enveloped by dense forests and cradled by the tranquil backwaters of the Linganamakki Dam, which gracefully arches over the Sharavati River. A stone's throw away from the quaint town of Hosanagara, or "new town," lies this sanctuary, a mere 6 kilometers journey into the heart of India’s natural wonder.

Ramchandrapura Math is not just a place of spiritual pursuit; it's a living testament to the preservation of India's vanishing bovine heritage. Here, amidst the verdant landscapes, lies a project of passion and preservation – the Goshala. This haven is home to 37 distinct breeds of Indian cattle, both milch and draught varieties, each one a vital thread in the rich tapestry of India's agricultural history. It stands as a beacon of hope against the backdrop of governmental mismanagement in cow breeding, as highlighted by the National Commission on Cattle. This private initiative breathes life into a tradition on the brink of extinction.

'Amruthadhara', the unique cattle shed at Ramchandrapura Math, is more than just a shelter. It's a mosaic of India's native cattle breeds, the largest of its kind in the nation, a modern-day Gokula reminiscent of ancient Indian lore. Its significance was globally recognized in April 2007, when it became the focal point of the World Cattle Conference, underscoring the importance of traditional cow rearing in India.

The Math itself is cradled in an awe-inspiring landscape, where the Sathashringa hills and the gentle embrace of the Sharavathy river create a setting of unparalleled beauty. This harmonious land, where wild animals once coexisted peacefully with cows and deer, captured the attention of Sri Shankaracharya, leading to the establishment of the Raghuothama Mutt. Here, the profound teachings of the Advaita philosophy echo through the hills.

Cultural Immersion: Exploring the World of Havyaka Brahmins

Our journey was further enriched by an intimate glimpse into the world of the Havyaka Brahmins, thanks to our friends Ganapati and Aparna Hegde from Dallas, US. This community, with its roots in ancient Kannada, traces its lineage back to the 32 Brahmins of the Kadamba king Mayursharma's era (345-360 A.D.). Renowned for their expertise in 'havana' or sacrificial rituals, their culture and traditions are a bridge to a bygone era. The havyaks speak a very old and traditional precursor of present day Kannada. Their descendancy is traced to 32 Brahmins brought to his Banavasi kingdom by Kadamba king Mayursharma (345-360 A.D. covered in previous blog). They are considered experts in performing 'havana' or oblations to deities and sacrifices. The name therefore 'Havik' or 'Havyak' means connected with 'havana' or sacrificial rituals

Our arrival at Ramchandrapura Math was greeted by the evening symphony of birds and the solemn chants of young monks, immersed in the daily recitation of sacred scriptures. The math resonated with the timeless wisdom of shlokas, creating a spiritual ambiance that's both tranquil and profound.

After a day of exploration, we retreated to our modest cottages, anticipating a dinner that promised simplicity yet richness in taste, aligned with the satvik principles of the Havyak Brahmins. The absence of onions and garlic only accentuated the natural flavors of the meal.

Goshala: A Sanctuary for India's Indigenous Cattle Breeds

The following day presented an opportunity to visit the Goshalas, an incredible sight directly opposite the Ramchandrapura Math complex. Spanning across what seemed like a narrow ravine, possibly carved out by a dry riverbed or stream from the Sharavathy backwaters, the scene was picturesque. As we crossed over, we were greeted by the serene figure of Lord Sri Krishna, flute in hand, overlooking the serene setting. Flanked by rows of cowsheds on either side of a quaint temple, the Goshalas were a sight to behold.

Here, in this serene sanctuary, we encountered around 500 cattle, each one a living representation of India's indigenous cow breeds. These cows, some of which we captured in the video below, were tended to by a dedicated team, ensuring their well-being and preservation. The complex was a self-contained ecosystem, housing a Cow Products Unit, a Gobar Gas Generator, and Cattle Feed Sheds, all integral to the sustainable management of this unique endeavor.

Our visit to Ramchandrapura Math and its Goshalas was more than just a journey; it was an immersion into a world where tradition, nature, and spirituality converge. It was a vivid reminder of the intricate tapestry of India's heritage, a heritage that continues to thrive in the heart of Karnataka, preserved by the dedication of those who cherish it. This enchanting destination, nestled in the Western Ghats, is not just a haven for India's native cattle breeds but a beacon of cultural and spiritual richness, inviting all who seek a deeper connection with India's timeless legacy.

Various indigenous Cow breeds found in Sri Ramachandrapura Mutt Gaushala Hosanagara

 GIR

- Found in: Saurashtra, Gujarat

- Characteristics: A high milk-yielding breed, extensively used for hybrid varieties both in India and internationally, notably in Brazil.

 SAHIWAL

- Found in: Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana

- Characteristics: Recognizable by its prominent red color. Originates from the Sahiwal district of Punjab province in Pakistan.

 KANKREJ

- Found in: Bhuj, North Gujarat, Rajasthan

- Characteristics: Bullocks are strong and hard-working. Among the largest cattle breeds in India.

 RED KANDHARI

- Found in: Marathwada, Maharashtra

- Characteristics: Bullocks are good for draught work. Cows are good milkers.

 NIMARI

- Found in: Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh

- Characteristics: Dual-purpose breed for milk and draught. Animals are copper-colored with patches of white.

 MALVI

- Found in: Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan

- Characteristics: Bullocks are useful for ploughing. Cows are average milkers.

 KHILLARI

- Found in: Southern Maharashtra, Northern Karnataka

- Characteristics: Bullocks are hardy and known for being fast workers.

 HALLIKAR

- Found in: Hassan, Mysore, Tunkur districts of Karnataka

- Characteristics: Draught breed used for road and field agricultural operations. Related to Amrit Mahal but thinner and with lower milk yield.

 BARAGURU

- Found in: Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

- Characteristics: Bullocks are good for work.

 KASARGOD

- Found in: Kerala

- Characteristics: Known for excellent milking ability, producing mineral-rich milk with a high feed-to-milk ratio.

 PONGANUR

- Found in: Andhra Pradesh

- Characteristics: The breed's milk has a high fat content. It's among the world's smallest humped cattle breeds.

 MALENADU GIDDA

- Found in: Coastal and hilly areas of Karnataka

- Characteristics: Small, dwarfish cows. Known for low milk yield varieties

 

The Ramchandrapura Matha also houses a small counter at the office (video coverage in next blog post) where several excellent cow products (gavya utpanna) are sold.

 Sri Ramachandrapura Mutt Gaushala Hosanagara: Traveler's Checklist

 Location

- Place: Ramchandrapura Math

- Distance: 6 Kms from Hosanagar town, approximately 66 Kms from Shimoga.

 How to Reach

- Travel Options:

  - Overnight train or bus from Bangalore/Bengaluru to Shimoga/Shivamogga (300 Kms, 6 hours journey).

  - Cab via NH48.

 Accommodation

• - Where to Stay: Cottages provided by Ramchandrapura Math.
• - Booking Advice: Advance booking recommended due to high demand on certain days.
• - Cost: Rs.600 per day for a clean cottage with hot water facility.
• - Note: The cottages are not tourist resorts, so expectations should be set accordingly.

 Nearby Attractions

• - Humcha Village: Located 22 kms away, known for historic Jain temples.
• - Kodachadri: A paradise for trekkers and nature enthusiasts, 30 kms away.
• - Jog Falls in Gersoppa: India's second-highest waterfall, 44 kms away, with a drop of 253 m (830 ft).

 Contact Information

- Ramachandrapura Mutt Hosanagara:

  - Contact Number: Telefax # 081852 56050

  - Address:

    - Jagadguru Shankaracharya Mahasamsthanam – Shree Samsthana Gokarna

    - Shree Ramachandrapura Math

    - Post Haniya – 577418,

    - Hosanagara Taluk, Shimoga District,

    - Karnataka, India

 Administrative Office

- Address:

  - ‘Shree Ramashrama’, #2A, J.P. Road,

  - Girinagar 1st Phase, Bangalore – 560085,

  - Karnataka, India

- Telefax: 080 26724979

List of branches of Sri Ramachandrapura Math in Karnataka
1. Sri Ramachandrapura Matha, Hosanagara Taluk (Profile)

2. Sri Ragoottama Matha, Gokarna (Profile)

3. Sri Ragoottama Matha, Kekkaru, Honnavara Taluk (Profile)

4. Sri Ramachandrapura Matha, Thirthahalli (Profile)

5. Apsarakonda Matha, Kasaragodu (Profile)

6. Sri Ramadeva Math, Bankuli, Siddapura Taluk (Profile)

7. Sri Ramachandrapura Matha, Peraje, Bantvala Taluk (Profile)

8. Sri Ramashrama, Girinagara, Bangalore (Profile)

9. Sri Ramakrishna Kalika Matha, Ambagiri, Sirsi (Profile)

10. Sri Ramashrama, Chadaravalli, Sagara Taluk (Profile)