Swami Samarth

Shri Swami Samarth Maharaj (Marathi: श्री स्वामी समर्थ) also known as Swami of Akkalkot, was an Indian Hindu spiritual master of the Dattatreya Tradition. He lived during the nineteenth century and is a known spiritual figure in various Indian states including Karnataka and Maharashtra. Swami Samarth traveled all across the Indian subcontinent and eventually set his abode at Akkalkot, a village in present-day Solapur District in Maharashtra. He is thought to have arrived at Akkalkot on a Wednesday, during either September or October in 1856. He resided at Akkalkot for close to 22 years.

Swami Samartha took a samadhi on April 30, 1878 as per the Gregorian calendar and on Chaitra Suddha Trayodasi, Shaka 1800 as per the Hindu Calendar. His teachings continue to be followed by millions of people in Maharashtra, and his ashram in Akkalkot remains a popular place of pilgrimage.