Key Holdings of the Court:

• The title "Jagadguru Shankaracharya" holds specific status among Hindus following Sanatan Dharma, limited to the four Amnaya Peethas established by Adi Shankaracharya: Jyotirmath, Sharda Math, Shringeri Math, and Govardhan Math. No other person is entitled to use this title, and such use is unauthorized. (!) (!)

• Succession to Shankaracharya is governed by customs and traditions (Mathamnaya and Mahanushasan), which have the force of law under Article 13, and cannot be altered by individuals. Position of Shankaracharya is a mission with attached property for its accomplishment, not a private right. (!) (!) (!) (!) (!)

• Religious institutions like a "Mutt" are juristic entities capable of holding property. (!) (!)

• Mathamnaya and Mahanushasan contain commands regulating eligibility, selection, appointment, removal, and functioning of Shankaracharya in the four Peethas. They are customs/usages with force of law. Essential qualifications: (i) Dandi Sanyasi; (ii) good knowledge of Sanskrit; (iii) versed in Vedas, Upanishads, Brahmanas, Puranas, Vedangas; (iv) Brahmin. (!) (!) (!) (!)

• Guru-Shishya Parampara was followed at Jyotirmath until broken in 1833 Vikram Samvat (1776 AD) due to unavoidable circumstances; revived in 1941 by selection by Manishigans (B.D.M., VNS, other Shankaracharyas), installing Swami Brahmanand Saraswati. (!) [p_387A]

• Swami Brahmanand Saraswati's Will dated 18.12.1952 was valid; he nominated Ramji Tripathi (Swami Shantanand Saraswati) first, who was installed on 12.6.1953. (!) (!)

• Swami Shantanand Saraswati