Who is recognized as the founder of the Advaita Vedanta school of Indian philosophy?

The founder of the Advaita Vedanta school of Indian philosophy is Shankara, who lived in the early 8th century. Shankara is renowned for his profound interpretations of the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Brahma Sutras, which laid the groundwork for Advaita, a non-dualistic interpretation of the Vedic texts.

His teachings emphasize the idea that the self (Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman) are identical, promoting the understanding that the apparent distinction between the individual soul and the universe is an illusion (Maya). Shankara traveled extensively across India to establish his philosophy, set up monasteries, and engage in debates, helping to solidify Advaita Vedanta's position within Indian philosophical thought. He is often credited with reviving Hinduism in a time when Buddhism was predominant in India, which highlights his impact on the religious landscape.

Other figures mentioned, such as Ramanuja, are associated with different schools of thought, particularly Vishishtadvaita (qualified non-dualism), and do not pertain to the founding of Advaita Vedanta. Vaisheshika and Kapila are related to other philosophical traditions in Indian philosophy, such as atom