The Sri Vidya Math at Kedarnath Ghat in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, has been at the center of discussions recently. Ashutosh Maharaj, who filed an FIR against Swami Avimukteshwaranand, alleged that the monastery is five stories high, equipped with a swimming pool and a glass palace. These claims have stirred the religious and social circles. But what is the reality behind these assertions? To seek answers, the site was closely examined, only to reveal a different story.
As you navigate through the narrow lanes leading to the Sri Vidya Math, the geographical constraints of the area immediately raise questions. The streets are so narrow that reaching here by a four-wheeler is nearly impossible.
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Upon entering the monastery, the first thing you notice are the stairs leading to the basement. Descending induces a peek into a large hall, divided by glass partitions. This is where Swami Avimukteshwaranand performs morning prayers and meets devotees from far and wide. The hall also houses the throne of the Shankaracharya.
Source: aajtak
Devendra Pandey, Swami Avimukteshwaranand's special representative, illuminated the structure of the monastery. As per his account, the monastery consists of three floors, plus the basement, making it a four-level structure. The basement includes the prayer area and a place for meetings.
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The first floor above is a Gurukul, providing lodging and education for the disciples. On the second floor is the kitchen, where meals for monastery members and students are prepared. The third floor hosts the congregation hall and Swami Avimukteshwaranand's residence.
Thus, the on-ground assessment found the claim of a five-story monastery unfounded. The structure appears simple and traditional, adhering to the architectural styles of old Kashi.
A Tub Built on the Rooftop
Now, addressing the most controversial claim: the swimming pool and glass palace. The investigation concluded that no form of swimming pool is present on the monastery's rooftop. However, a tub was constructed, designed for health purposes.
Source: aajtak
Swami Swaroopanand Saraswati, posthumously, was advised by doctors for daily ambulation, which was challenging due to physical constraints. The water tub was installed to allow leg movement while seated as a medical provision, not a leisure pool. Currently, this tub is no longer in use and houses old documents and items related to the monastery.
The Real Structure versus Allegations
Regarding the claim of a glass palace, no such construction was found that could be termed as such. The constructions within the monastery are modest and align with religious activities.
The real structure and facilities of the monastery diverge from the claims made. Sri Vidya Math remains a traditional religious site where Gurukul, prayer, and congregations are held. Based on the ground report, it appears the claims around the Kashi monastery hold significantly different truths.
