Ajaganna was a revered seeker in the tradition of Veerashaivism, known for his exceptional practice of Trataka Yoga, a form of Shiva yoga. His life epitomized the essence of this meditative discipline. Ajaganna hailed from Lakkundi in the Gadag Taluka of the Gadag district (formerly part of the Dharwad district). Born into an agricultural family, he transcended his humble origins to achieve the pinnacle of spiritual enlightenment.
Despite his spiritual contributions, much of Ajaganna's
literary work, particularly his vachanas, has been lost to time. However, his
prowess as a vachana writer is extolled by Channabasavanna, a significant
figure in Veerashaivism. Channabasavanna's admiration places Ajaganna among the
elite vachana writers, even suggesting that five of Ajaganna's vachanas were as
profound as ten of Allamaprabhu's, who is considered one of the greatest
vachana composers.
Ajaganna led a life of simplicity, engaging in agriculture
by day and practicing Trataka Yoga by night. His dedication to Trataka Yoga was
profound and personal, often conducted in secrecy. He held the Ishtalinga in his
throat, maintaining a vow of silence, symbolizing the belief that true
knowledge transcends words. For Ajaganna, the Ishtalinga represented divine
wisdom, as radiant and precious as a gem hidden within the hood of a snake.
Following the death of their parents, Ajaganna took on the
role of caretaker for his sister, Muktayakka, nurturing her spiritual growth
and serving as her mentor. Under his guidance, Muktayakka blossomed into a
mystic. After her marriage, she moved to Mosalekal, her husband's village.
Following her departure, Ajaganna achieved the state of Mantrakaya, a
significant milestone in his spiritual journey.
Ajaganna's departure from this world was abrupt and tragic.
One day, while entering his house with a bundle of hay on his head, he
accidentally struck his head against the door's head-plank, resulting in a
fatal injury. In his final moments, he broke his vow of silence, uttering
"O Lord Shiva," and then breathed his last.
Muktayakka, deeply affected by her brother's death, composed
vachanas as an expression of her sorrow and tribute to his memory. These
vachanas stand as a poignant testament to Ajaganna's spiritual legacy and the
profound impact he had on those around him.