Swāmī Lakṣmaṇjū

Swāmī Lakṣmaṇjū was the last master of Kashmir Shaivism’s living oral lineage. He preserved and transmitted the profound teachings of non-dual Shaivism that had been passed down through centuries of oral tradition in Kashmir.

Life/History

Born in a Kashmiri family, he was initiated into Kashmir Shaivism by his guru, Swami Vishnudas. He lived and taught in Srinagar, becoming the primary custodian of the oral lineage teachings. He attracted both Western and Indian students and worked tirelessly to preserve the tradition during a period of political upheaval.

Teachings/Contributions

Swāmī Lakṣmaṇjū transmitted the complete body of Kashmir Shaivism teachings—including Abhinavagupta’s works—through oral commentary and direct instruction. He emphasized the experiential dimension of these teachings, insisting that they be transmitted through practice rather than mere intellectual study.

Legacy

Through his students, including John Hughes and Mark Dyczkowski, he ensured the survival and global dissemination of Kashmir Shaivism. The Lakṣmaṇjū Institute and the work of his students continue to carry forward his unique transmission of this ancient tradition.

Verification notes

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• Audited conservatively; no Wikipedia reference extract was available for this entry (September 2026).