Vision, Mission & Spiritual Leadership
Explore the profound philosophy, selfless mission, humanitarian initiatives and enduring spiritual legacy of Swami Chidananda Puri
Vision
- 01To promote, foster, encourage, publish, teach, and disseminate Sanatana Dharma and philosophy as particularly expressed in the classical principles of Vedanta that teaches the essential oneness of all beings and thereby promoting unity in diversity.
- 02To follow and promote the teachings of Advaita Vedanta as per the vision and writings of the lineage of Adi Sankaracharya.
- 03To teach and share the ancient wisdom of Veda in the modern context to empower individuals and contributing to a more harmonious society.
Mission
- 01Conduct classes, discussion groups, camps, retreats, workshops, and other related activities to implement our vision.
- 02To promote, collaborate with and support similar organizations, cultural and other charitable organizations with similar vision.
- 03To translate, publish, print and distribute cultural books, journals, periodicals, and similar literature for educating Vedanta and Dharma.
- 04Engage in serving the underprivileged in local communities we serve for e.g. food relief, medical relief and counselling services.
Swami Chidananda Puri
Swami Chidananda Puri is a distinguished scholar of Advaita Vedanta and a prominent spiritual leader in India. In 1992, Swamiji established the Advaithashramam in Kolathur, Kerala, which serves as a center for deep spiritual inquiry.
As the Founder and Managing Trustee of the Sri Sankara Charitable Trust, he oversees 12 branches nationwide dedicated to disseminating the teachings of Sanatana Dharma through monthly classes, retreats, and long-term Vedanta courses.
Swamiji is a globally recognized orator, having conducted camps and lectures in over 15 countries, including the USA, UK, UAE, and Singapore.
Academic & Institutional Contributions
Beyond his monastic duties, Swamiji has bridged the gap between traditional wisdom and modern academia.
Academic Roles
Former Chair and Visiting Professor of Sanatana Dharma at the University of Calicut.
Editorial Work
Chief Editor of the monthly Malayalam magazine, Advaithasramam Sathsangam.
Authorship
Author of over 60 published books on spiritual and social ethics.
Key Positions & Institutional Network
Swamiji serves in several respected leadership roles, including Managing Trustee of Sri Sankara Charitable Trust, President of Margadarsaka Mandal (Kerala), Trustee of Adi Sankara Samskrutika Ekata Nyas, Madhya Pradesh, President of the Kerala Dharmacharya Sabha, and Overseas Patron of HUA.
Through these positions, he supports a wide network of institutions dedicated to education, service, spiritual practice, cultural continuity, and dharmic upliftment.
Core Areas of Contribution
- Spiritual guidance and preservation of Advaita Vedanta traditions
- Support for educational, charitable, and community institutions
- Leadership across dharmic and cultural organizations in India and abroad
- Institutional stewardship rooted in service, discipline, and continuity
Branches & Institutions Under Sri Sankara Charitable Trust
Established in California, USA
In 2025, Sankara Advaithashramam for Global Enlightenment (SAGE), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was established in California, USA. Swamiji serves as the Permanent Director, guiding the organization’s global mission to share the teachings of Vedanta and Sanatana Dharma.
A Journey of Wisdom, Service & Spiritual Growth
Explore the journey, inspiration, and living legacy behind this mission through a visual story that reflects its roots, growth, and continued purpose.
The Inauguration of SAGE
On August 9th, Sankara Advaithashramam for Global Enlightenment (SAGE) was officially inaugurated in Milpitas, California — marking the beginning of a vibrant mission to share timeless spiritual wisdom with the modern world.
Experience the Historic Moment
Watch the live inauguration ceremony and revisit the powerful opening of a mission rooted in Advaita, wisdom, unity, and service.
A Sacred Beginning for a Global Vision
The inauguration was led by Pujya Chidananda Puri Swamiji, Founder of Advaithashramam, Kerala and Permanent Director of SAGE, along with Chief Guest Pujya Tattwamayananda Swamiji, Minister-in-Chief of the Vedanta Society of San Francisco.
Distinguished guests from respected community and service organizations joined the ceremony, reflecting the shared goodwill and collective support behind this inspiring beginning.
Keynote Message
In his inauguration address, Swamiji outlined the spiritual foundation of SAGE and emphasized the urgent need to share the wisdom of Sanatana Dharma in today’s complex world — calling upon all to work together in unity for this noble and transformative cause.
Spiritual Foundation
SAGE begins with a clear commitment to Advaita, Sanatana Dharma, and the preservation of timeless spiritual knowledge for future generations.
Global Understanding
More than an institution, SAGE represents a growing mission to foster spiritual clarity, cultural understanding, and meaningful dialogue in the modern world.
A Shared Commitment
With blessings from revered leaders and the support of the community, this inauguration marks the beginning of a collective journey rooted in wisdom, unity, and service.