Sankaracharya University authorities deny Governor’s charge that Adi Sankara’s pictures are not allowed in the varsity

Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar’s allegation that the photograph of Adi Sankara, after whom the Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit has been named, is not being allowed to be displayed in the university has come under criticism, with the University authorities denying the charge.

Mr. Arlekar, who is also the Chancellor of the university, made the allegation at a public meeting while inaugurating the State conference of the Yoga Kshema Sabha at Perumbavoor on Saturday (September 20, 2025).

“In that university, any photograph or chithra of Adi Sankara is not allowed. What sorts of things are being done here? Who is beyond all these things?” asked Mr. Arlekar in his address.

He also sounded caution against people, whom he termed as, opposing the Sanatana Dharma tooth and nail and pretending to be saviours of Sanatana principles. “People should not be deceived or fooled by persons who are out to destroy the thoughts, culture and parampara,” said Mr. Arlekar.

However, when contacted, the university authorities said the pictures of Adi Sankara were prominently displayed in the offices of the Vice-Chancellor and the Registrar and all other important places in the institution, including the various departments of the university.

Sculptor too

“A sculptor of Adi Sankara greets the visitors as they enter the campus. The picture of Adi Sankara is prominently displayed in my room,” said K.K. Geethakumary, Vice-Chancellor-in-charge of the university.

“A large-sized painting series depicting the life of Sankaracharya was till recently displayed at the university library for people to learn about the life and times of the seer. The painting series will shortly be relocated and displayed at a hall on the campus, which was leased out to the Kerala Lalithakala Academy. The academy will vacate the hall in a month and the painting series will be displayed there,” she said.

Mothi George, Registrar of the university, also confirmed the display of the picture of Adi Sankara in his room and other important centres of the university.

When contacted, Raj Bhavan sources said the Governor was making an extempore speech at the function.