Sankara (Adi Shankaracharya)

Adi Shankaracharya, also known as Sankara, was a revered Indian philosopher and spiritual leader from the 8th century. He emphasized that the ultimate reality is a singular, all-encompassing consciousness called Brahman, and that our true nature is this divine consciousness, not the material world. Through his teachings, he promoted the idea of Advaita Vedanta—non-dualism—meaning that individual souls (Atman) are identical to Brahman. Sankara traveled across India, clarifying spiritual philosophy, reforming temples, and establishing monastic centers. His work laid foundational principles for Advaita Vedanta, inspiring millions in their spiritual quest for understanding their true nature and the universe.