Nanjangud: Shivappa Swamiji (60) of Devanur Mutt in the taluk committed suicide by jumping into Cauvery River near Mudukuthore in T. Narasipur taluk.

It is learnt that the Swamiji was suffering from illness, which had led to mental depression and had gone missing since two days. A missing case was lodged at Kavalande Police Station. Depressed over his illness, the Swamiji reportedly committed suicide by jumping into the river.

Public who saw the body floating in the river on Monday, informed Talakad Police, who reached the spot, fished out the body and shifted it to MMC&RI mortuary in Mysuru for post-mortem besides registering a case.

A native of Kaliyuru village in Kollegal taluk of Chamarajanagar district, Shivappa Swamiji was involved in collecting grains from devotees since four decades and was the favourite disciple of Srimahanta Swamiji of the Mutt.