GU, means darkness of ignorance and RU, means one who removes and therefore, a GURU is one who removes the darkness of ignorance. A GURU also signifies one who reveals the life targets, or goals to the disciple.

There is another interesting connotation of the word GURU, where GU means – one who transcends the three GUNAS (Satva, Rajas and Tamas) and RU means – one who is formless, or beyond a form. In the Hindu philosophy, this supreme being who is formless and beyond all materialistic realms is the SUPREME BRAHMAN itself, the essence of the eternal CREATOR himself.

GURU Raghavendra Swamy is considered one such epitome of divinity, a GURU at the highest levels of omniscience, an all-pervading presence who took a human form to redeem people of their dispels of ignorance, to impart the LIGHT of knowledge and awareness. He was and continues to be an inspiration for generations of people, who have acknowledged the need for transformation and inward cleansing.

It is said that one of the greatest aspects of Guru Raghavendra was his ability to appeal, reach and impact people of diverse cultural, socio-economic backgrounds. He could universally bind, synthesize people of diverse experiences into one thread of devotion and prayer. He educated them about the importance of simple living and submission of the SELF to larger goals; divine and eternal.

In fact, stories from his lifetime show that he was a miraculous Guru, who could perform mind-boggling miracles to save mankind from challenges. He is also considered a benevolent and compassionate Saint who spent his life advocating great life principles, a teacher who is remembered even today for his magnanimity, healing abilities and a patron Saint who continues to transform humanity. Guru Raghavendra epitomizes purity, devotion and radiates peace.