Sri La Sri Somasundara Desika Gnanasampantha Paramacharya Swamigal, the Guru Maha Sannidhanam of the Nallai Thirugnanasampanthar Adheenam, passed away on May 1, in Colombo while undergoing medical treatment.
Swamigal succeeded Sri La Sri Swaminatha Gnanasampantha Desika Paramacharya Swamigal, the founding head of the Nallai Adheenam, and served with unwavering dedication, particularly during the turbulent years of the civil war. Known for his visionary leadership and compassionate service, he became a beacon of spiritual strength and community unity.
He was also an active member of the Jaffna District Interfaith Council, recognized for his tireless efforts in promoting interreligious harmony. Swamigal lived a life marked by simplicity, humility, and spiritual discipline, fostering love and mutual respect across religious lines. His humanitarian values earned him admiration across faith communities.
His mortal remains were brought to the Nallai Adheenam in Jaffna on, May 2, where devotees and dignitaries gathered to pay their final respects. Rituals were held in accordance with tradition, followed by a procession and cremation at the Chemmany Hindu Crematorium. The funeral was attended by political leaders, religious figures, and the general public, all united in mourning the loss of a deeply respected spiritual figure.
Swamigal’s legacy, his contributions to religious unity, the upliftment of human values, and the preservation of Tamil cultural identity continues to resonate across Eelam Tamil regions. His life and service remain an enduring inspiration for generations to come.