Shri Shankaracharya, also known as Adi Shankaracharya, was an influential Indian philosopher and theologian who lived in the early 8th century CE. He is best known for consolidating the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta, which emphasizes the non-dual nature of reality and the idea that the individual soul (Atman) is identical to the ultimate reality (Brahman). Shankaracharya traveled extensively across India, establishing four major monasteries, or mathas, to promote his teachings. His works, including commentaries on the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras, have had a lasting impact on Hindu philosophy and spirituality.