About GR Mama

It is always with great curiosity that Mahaperiyava devotees ask, “Who is GR Mama?” Here is a brief introduction to Sri P. Rajagopal, affectionately referred to as Sri GR Mama.

His life and mission serve as an inspiration to many.

Born in the year 1954, Sri GR Mama led a life typical of many until he received the blessings and grace of His Holiness Sri Sri Sri Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi Swamigal, the 68th pontiff of Kanchi Mutt, revered as Nadamadum Deivam (the walking God) or the Sage of Kanchi.

Sri GR Mama refers to this phase of his life as a rebirth, a complete transformation guided by the blessings and teachings of His Holiness. It became a life filled with purpose and divine guidance. During this transformational period, Sri GR Mama experienced a significant decline in his health. He suffered two strokes, resulting in the loss of mobility on his left side and limited mobility on his right side. Despite being bound to a wheelchair due to the stroke, he found solace and inner strength through his Guru, Mahaperiyava.

The cosmic connection with his Guru grew manifold. Receiving guidance and strength from Mahaperiyava, Sri GR Mama was directed towards spiritual activities and guiding those who approached him. When he received the cosmic message from his Guru to share his experiences as a book, Sri GR Mama initially doubted its feasibility. Despite his limited mobility, he embarked on the journey. With just one finger on his right hand, he began typing his experiences using an English-to-Tamil word converter. Against all odds, he completed his first book, comprising over 45,000 words across 247 pages.

At the age of 70, he has now authored eight books, with two more underway, using this divine, magical one-finger typing method. Sri GR Mama is the author, publisher, and seller of his books. What’s even more remarkable is the profound impact his writings are having. His words serve as a beacon of hope for countless devotees, who find strength and guidance in his experiences, aligning themselves with the path of Sanathana Dharma shown by his Guru, Mahaperiyava.

Sri GR Mama engages in everyday meetings and talks with hundreds of devotees, patiently listening to their problems and prayers. His one reassuring phrase, “Periyava Paathuppa, Periyava Irukka,” offers solace to countless devotees who meet him and take his blessings.

On October 2015, Mahaperiyava ordained Sri GR Mama to initiate the Mahaperiyava Guru Puja for devotees seeking spiritual guidance and solutions to everyday issues. What started as a small spark has now become a fervent fire. Devotees worldwide perform the Mahaperiyava Guru Puja with earnestness and devotion.

Through the Sri Mahaperiyavar Arul Trust, Sri GR Mama is deeply involved in various religious and social activities, including Gho Rakshanam (cattle protection), Veda Samrakshanam (preservation of Vedic traditions), temple kaingaryam (service to temples), supporting education and medical aid for the underprivileged, and assisting in the marriage of poor girls, among others.

In a world where age and health issues often dampen spirits and limit individuals, Sri GR Mama stands as a remarkable human being—a compassionate and caring individual who has embraced challenges with resilience and spiritual strength, making a meaningful difference in the community.

With his ardent devotion to Periyava, he guides devotees to walk the path of Sri Mahaperiyava and to follow Mahaperiyava’s life and teachings.

Our humble namaskarams to Sri GR Mama, and we are grateful for his tireless service in guiding devotees on the spiritual path.