Kapali Shastri
Kapali Shastri | |
|---|---|
| Born | T.V. Kapali Sastry 3 September 1886 Mylapore, Tamil Nadu, India |
| Died | Script error: No such module "age". Pondicherry, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation(s) | Sanskrit scholar, Author, Translator |
| Notable work | Lights on the Veda, Sidelights on the Tantra |
T.V. Kapali Shastri (3 September 1886 – 17 August 1953) was an eminent Sanskrit scholar, author, translator, and disciple of Sri Aurobindo. He is known for his extensive work on the Vedas, Upanishads, and Tantra.
Early Life and Education
Kapali Shastri was born in Mylapore, Tamil Nadu, India, into a traditional Vedic family. He received his early education in Sanskrit under the guidance of his father, who was a scholar at the Oriental Manuscripts Library in Madras. He later studied under the renowned Kavyakantha Ganapati Muni, a prominent disciple of Ramana Maharshi.
Career
Shastri initially worked as a Sanskrit teacher in Madras. His deep interest in Vedic and Tantric studies led him to publish numerous books and articles in English, Tamil, Telugu, and Sanskrit. In 1929, he moved to Pondicherry and became a disciple of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother (Mirra Alfassa). He immersed himself in Sri Aurobindo's philosophy and writings, particularly focusing on the Rig Veda.
Philosophy and Works
Kapali Shastri's writings reflect his profound understanding of Vedic and Tantric traditions. His notable works include:
- Lights on the Veda
- Sidelights on the Tantra
- Sri Aurobindo: Lights on the Teachings
- The Maharshi
- Gospel of the Gita
- Rig Bhashya Bhumika
He also wrote extensively in Sanskrit, with works such as Rig Veda Bhashya (Siddhanjana), Matr-tattva-Prakasha, and Savitri Ahnikastava. His contributions to Tamil literature include Agni Suktangal and Sri Aravindar Vennira Sudaroli.
Personal Life
Kapali Shastri was a practicing yogi and philosopher, deeply influenced by his gurus Ganapati Muni, Ramana Maharshi, and Sri Aurobindo. He was known for his mastery of several languages, including Sanskrit, English, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada.
Legacy
Kapali Shastri's work has had a lasting impact on the study of Vedic and Tantric traditions. His writings continue to be a valuable resource for scholars and spiritual seekers.
References
- Kapali Sastry - Wikipedia [archive]
- Tribute to T.V. Kapali Shastri and M.P. Pandit [archive]
- T.V. Kapali Sastry - Auromere [archive]
Sri Kapali Sastry (1886-1953) was a highly respected Vedic scholar and Sanskrit authority. Even after he became Sri Aurobindo’s disciple and entered the Ashram, he continued to write many commentaries and definitive works.