Lakshmivara Theertha Swami died of natural causes, was not murdered: Pejawar seer

Hubballi: Dismissing all speculation of foul play in the death of Laxmivara Teertha Swamiji , who passed away recently, Sri Vishwesha Teertha Swamiji of Pejawar Adhokshaja Math on Thursday said there was no possibility of murder in the case. Speaking to reporters here, he said the seer had been ill for the last two years and had stopped performing pooja for the last three or four years. Upset over claims of involvement of other seers in his death, the Pejawar swamiji said the pontiffs only spread messages of peace and gave sermons and had nothing to do with violence.

"It is unfair to suspect the involvement of any pontiff in the death of Laxmivara Teertha Swamiji. Those making such charges have no basis or evidence. I don't have any information about food poisoning. I heard that the seer was suffering from liver and kidney failure. He died of natural causes. Allegations should not be made without a valid reason. I personally had love and affection for Laxmivar Teertha Swamiji although we had our differences," he added.

Asserting that there was no connection between the controversy over the handing over of the Patta Devaru to the late pontiff and his death , he recalled that he had himself admitted to having children.” Patta Devaru was not handed over to the seer as he had given up sanyas and was not considered head of the religious institution," he explained. To a question on the appointment of the dead pontiff's successor in Shirur Mutt, he said that Sodhe Mutt would take a decision on this and he would give advice only if asked.