‘Gau Mata Rashtra Mata’ Conference to be held in Delhi in the presence of four Shankaracharyas

New Delhi – In a development that could mark a rare and historic moment in the religious history of Sanatan Dharma, the Shankaracharyas (Please see photo here on right) of all four traditional Peeths (Monastic centres) are likely to come together on a single platform after a gap of 19 years. The proposed congregation is being planned in Delhi on March 10, 2026, under the banner of the ‘Gau Mata Rashtra Mata’ (Mother Cow, Nation’s Mother) campaign, with cow protection as its central theme.

Cow Protection as a Unifying Cause

This is an issue that has historically united various strands of the Sanatan Dharma tradition. Shankaracharya Nishchalanand of Puri Peeth has been particularly vocal and active on this front. In a dramatic gesture underscoring his commitment, he has reportedly renounced his throne and royal umbrella as part of his vow to protect cows.

Rare Moments in Religious History

Meetings of all four Shankaracharyas on a single platform have been exceedingly rare. The first Chaturpeeth Conference was held in Sringeri in 1779, marking the first time the heads of the four monastic centres came together. The second such gathering took place on May 19, 2007, in Bangalore, during a conference related to the Ram Setu issue.

If the proposed Delhi programme materialises as planned, it would become only the third occasion in recorded religious history when the Shankaracharyas of Sringeri, Dwarka, Puri, and Jyotish Peeth are seen together on one stage.