Shankaracharya

Shankaracharya, also known simply as Adi Shankaracharya, was an influential Indian philosopher and theologian who lived in the early 8th century. He is best known for consolidating the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta, which teaches non-dualism—essentially that the individual soul (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are one and the same. Shankaracharya traveled extensively across India, establishing monasteries and promoting philosophical thought through debates and writings. His work emphasized the importance of knowledge and meditation in attaining spiritual liberation (Moksha). His teachings continue to influence Hinduism and philosophy to this day.