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Writer's pictureSatya Baba

Divine Lineage: Exploring the Gurus of the Dattatreya Guru Parampara

Dattatreya Guru Parampara refers to the lineage of gurus in the tradition of Lord Dattatreya, who is considered an incarnation of the Hindu trinity of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. Here is information about the Dattatreya Guru Parampara based on popular narratives and beliefs:

Lord Dattatreya



  • Birthplace: Lord Dattatreya's birthplace is often associated with Girnar mountain in Gujarat, India, or the vicinity of the Western Ghats. However, it is important to note that Lord Dattatreya is considered an eternal and divine being, beyond the constraints of a specific birthplace.

Most important stories of Lord Dattatreya

  • Lord Dattatreya is revered as the Adi Guru, the original Guru, who embodies the essence of all gurus. He is depicted as having manifested with unique characteristics, such as three heads representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, symbolizing the unity of the three major deities in Hinduism.

  • One prominent story associated with Lord Dattatreya is his encounter with twenty-four gurus of nature, from whom he learned profound lessons about spirituality and life. These gurus include elements like the earth, sky, air, water, animals, and various aspects of nature.

  • Another significant story involves Lord Dattatreya's interactions with his disciples, including the king Yadu and Prahlada, the devotee of Lord Vishnu. These interactions highlight the teachings and spiritual guidance provided by Lord Dattatreya.


Conclusion of Lord Dattatreya's teachings

  • The teachings of Lord Dattatreya emphasize the importance of attaining spiritual knowledge and realization. He teaches that the true guru is not limited to a physical form but exists in various manifestations and experiences in life.

  • Lord Dattatreya's teachings promote detachment from material desires and ego, emphasizing the path of self-realization and the realization of the divine presence within oneself and all beings.

  • He encourages seekers to learn from nature, observing the qualities and lessons it offers, and recognizing the divinity inherent in all aspects of creation.

  • The ultimate teaching of Lord Dattatreya is to transcend dualities and merge with the eternal consciousness, realizing the oneness of all existence.

It's important to note that the specific details and stories associated with Lord Dattatreya and the Dattatreya Guru Parampara may vary within different traditions and interpretations.


Following Lord Dattatreya and the Dattatreya Guru Parampara, there are several revered gurus in the lineage. While the specific names and details may vary across different traditions and interpretations, here are a few notable gurus mentioned in the Dattatreya Guru Parampara:

Sripada Srivallabha:



  • Birthplace: Sripada Srivallabha is believed to have been born in the town of Pithapuram in present-day Andhra Pradesh, India.

  • Important Stories: Sripada Srivallabha is considered an incarnation of Lord Dattatreya. He is believed to have performed various miracles and preached spiritual teachings during his lifetime. His teachings emphasize the importance of devotion, selflessness, and self-realization.

  • Mantra: There is no specific mantra mentioned for Sripada Srivallabha in the traditional texts.

Narasimha Saraswati



  • Birthplace: Narasimha Saraswati is believed to have been born in the Karanja village in Maharashtra, India.

  • Important Stories: Narasimha Saraswati is considered an incarnation of Lord Dattatreya. He is revered for his spiritual teachings and the miracles associated with his life. One of the significant stories relates to his meeting with a Muslim king, who becomes his devotee after witnessing his divine powers.


Manik Prabhu



  • Birthplace: Manik Prabhu is believed to have been born in the town of Humnabad in present-day Karnataka, India.

  • Important Stories: Manik Prabhu is considered a revered saint and an incarnation of Lord Dattatreya. He is known for his selfless service, compassion, and spiritual guidance to his devotees. His teachings emphasize the importance of devotion, surrender, and self-realization.


Akkalkot Swami Samarth



  • Birthplace: Akkalkot Swami Samarth, also known as Swami Samarth Maharaj, is believed to have taken birth in Akkalkot, a village in present-day Maharashtra, India.

  • Important Stories: Swami Samarth Maharaj is considered an incarnation of Lord Dattatreya. He is revered for his spiritual powers and the miracles attributed to him. His teachings emphasize the importance of faith, devotion, and self-realization. Many devotees believe that Swami Samarth Maharaj is still alive in a subtle form and continues to guide seekers.


These are just a few of the gurus mentioned in the lineage after Lord Dattatreya. The Dattatreya Guru Parampara encompasses a rich tapestry of spiritual teachers who have guided and inspired countless seekers on the path of self-realization.

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