Bandigani Neelamanika Math’s Dhaneshwar Swami no more

BAGALKOT: Basavagopal Neelamanika Math seer Dhaneshwar Swamiji (75), a revered spiritual leader, passed away at KLE Hospital in Belagavi, due to liver complications on Friday. He was undergoing treatment for the past four days.

The seer, known as ‘Daanesha Chakravarthi Annadaneeswara’, was a prominent figure in the region, with a large following in Bagalkot, Vijayapura, and Belagavi districts. He was instrumental in conducting numerous social and spiritual events, including the recent ‘Sarva Dharma Maha Sangama Samavesha’ at the Math at Bandigani village in October, which was attended by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.

The seer’s mortal remains were taken from KLE Hospital to his native village Savadi in Belagavi district where devotees can pay their respects. The body will then be taken to Bandigani Math, where it will be kept for public viewing from 10 pm on Friday night until 4 pm on Saturday. The final rites will be performed at 4 pm on Saturday as per Veerashaiva Lingayat traditions.

The spiritual leader was known for his philanthropic work, particularly his efforts to provide food to the needy, having conducted 187 such events across Karnataka and other states. Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah, had praised Swamiji’s work during the ‘Sarva Dharma Maha Sangama Samavesha’ event in October. He had said that Swamiji had conducted 187 food distribution events, not just in Karnataka but also in other states, and had wished him a long life of over 100 years, good health and prosperity.