Q. Dwarka, Joshimath, Puri, and Sringeri are monastic centers (maths) established by which ancient Indian philosopher?
Answer:
Adi Shankaracharya
Notes: The four Shankaracharyas, leaders of Hindu maths established by Adi Shankara, declared their non-attendance at the Ayodhya Ram temple inauguration. Adi Shankaracharya, or Shankara founded maths in Dwarka, Joshimath, Puri, and Sringeri, each safeguarding a Veda. For instance, Govardhan Math in Puri protects the Rig Veda. The Shankaracharyas oversee the Dashanami Sampradaya, a renunciate order. Originating in the 8th century, these maths serve as centers for religious practice, knowledge dissemination, and Vedic literature preservation.