Chennai: Sri Jayendra Saraswathi Swamigal (82), the 69th Shankaracharya of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, passed away today. He was admitted to a hospital this morning reportedly after a cardiac arrest.

He assumed charge as the Peetadhipathi of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham on March 22, 1994 after the demise of the then Peetadhipathi, Sri Chandrasekharendra Sarawathi Swamigal.

Being the head of a highly respected and traditional spiritual institution, Jayendra Saraswathi had commanded great respect, especially in the Brahmin community. He was widely believed to have enjoyed a good rapport with many high-level politicians across the country.

He was arrested on Nov. 11, 2004 on charges of having a hand in the conspiracy in murdering the Manager of Kanchi Varadaraja Perumal temple. After a prolonged trial, he was finally acquitted in the case.

During his tenure as Head of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, the institution expanded its horizons through its educational and medical institutions.

The junior pontiff, Sri Sankara Vijayendra Saraswathi, will be the 70th Jagadguru of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham.