Sri Erumbiyappa, a Wonderful Ashtadiggaja of Swami Manavala Mamunigal

Sri Erumbiyappa

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Sri Erumbiyappa Leaves for Srirangam


Sri Devaraja Guru, famously known as Sri Erumbiyappa, was born in Erumbi. Erumbi is a place near Sri Cholasimhapuram or Thirukkadigai [Sholinghur, near Chennai], which is one of the 108 Divyadesas eulogized by Azhwars.

Sri Erumbiyappa was a dear friend of Sri Koil Annan. After some time passed since Sri Koil Annan took refuge in the Golden Lotus Feet of Swami Manavala Mamunigal, a Sri Vaishnava from Srirangam reached Sri Cholasimhapuram. He happened to meet Sri Erumbiyappa and updated Him regarding the event of Sri Koil Annan becoming a Disciple of Swami Manavala Mamunigal.

After hearing this news, Sri Erumbiyappa was quite interested to know more about Swami Manavala Mamunigal. He took permission from His Father [Sri Aiyaigal Appa] and left for Srirangam, along with the Sri Vaishnava.

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Sri Erumbiyappa Meets Swami Manavala Mamunigal


Sri Erumbiyappa reached His dear friend Sri Koil Annan’s residence and received a very warm welcome. Sri Koil Annan and Sri Erumbiyappa then went to Swami Manavala Mamunigal’s Matam and prostrated in front of Him.

Swami Manavala Mamunigal was glad to have met Sri Erumbiyappa. Knowing that Sri Erumbiyappa is a Vidwaan, Swami Manavala Mamunigal gave a discourse on the meanings of “Uyarvara Uyarnalam” Pasuram of Sri Thiruvaimozhi, quoting from Vedas and several Shastras.

An amazed Sri Erumbiyappa said, “I have heard of Swami Manavala Mamunigal’s prowess in Dravida Veda revealed by the Azhwars. However, He is indeed a great exponent in both Vedas!”

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Sri Erumbiyappa Abruptly Returns to Erumbi


Swami Manavala Mamunigal asked Sri Erumbiyappa to partake the prasada of His Matam.

This did not gladden Sri Erumbiyappa as His mind was engrossed only in the normal Dharma [Saamaanya Dharma] that ordains that the Chandrayana Vratha has to be undertaken by the one who partakes the food offered by a Sanyasi. He did not realize the special Dharma [Vishesha Dharma], which ordains that one must certainly partake the prasada offered by a Sri Vaishnava, irrespective be the Varna or the Ashrama.

So, neither did He partake the prasada of the Matam nor did He eat anything at Sri Koil Annan’s residence. He returned to Erumbi.

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Sri Erumbiyappa's Dream


As Sri Erumbiyappa did not take refuge in the lotus Feet of Swami Manavala Mamunigal, Sri Koil Annan pleaded with Swami Manavala Mamunigal to shower His grace on Sri Erumbiyappa. Due to the grace of Swami Manavala Mamunigal, Lord Sri Ranganatha decided to correct Sri Erumbiyappa!

Once Sri Erumbiyappa reached His home and completed His ablutions, He attempted to open the doors of His Puja Mantapa [known as Thirukkoilaazhwaar]. Despite trying several times and in several ways, the doors would not open. Dejected, shocked and exhausted, Sri Erumbiyappa went to bed on an empty stomach.

He had a dream: the Deity of His home, Sri Chakravarthi Thirumagan [i.e. Sri Ramachandra], appeared and said:

“You have disrespected Swami Manavala Mamunigal, who is an Avathara of none other than Sri Adishesha, by refusing His prasada.

Don’t you know that only because of partaking the food of my Devotees [who were Sanyasis] did the son of a maidservant was reborn as Sri Narada Maharishi?

Unless you apologize to Swami Manavala Mamunigal and take refuge in His Feet, I shall not accept your services.”

Here's a shloka from Sri Varavaramuni Shathakam that reflects Sri Erumbiyappa eulogizing Swami Manavala Mamunigal as Sri Lakshmana, as He was identified as Sri Adhishesha by Sri Ramachandra:

May the glory of Sri Rama, the friend of Surya Puthra Sugreeva and the Vanaras, grow forever! May Sri Mythili [Seetha Devi], who always resides with Sri Rama, bestow all auspiciousness! Victory to Swami Manavala Mamunigal, who is the Sumithra Puthra Sri Lakshmana and is the recipient of the purna anugraha of Sri Mythili sametha Sri Rama!

Here's another shloka from Sri Varavaramuni Shathakam that reflects His joy of having been greatly benefited by His dream:

O Varavara Muni! One who performs the Anjali Mudra towards Thy lotus feet or even one who hears Thy Divine Nama once in his dream, burns all his karma bandha into ashes and reaches the most worthy place [i.e. lotus feet of Swami Manavala Mamunigal].

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Sri Erumbiyappa Becomes a Disciple of Swami Manavala Mamunigal


As Sri Erumbiyappa neared the entrance of Swami Manavala Mamunigal’s Matam, He saw Swami Manavala Mamunigal coming out of the Matam. Swami Manavala Mamunigal, along with His Disciples, was on His way to the Srirangam Temple to perform Mangalaashaasanam.

Overwhelmed, Sri Erumbiyappa prostrated in front of Swami Manavala Mamunigal. Swami Manavala Mamunigal smiled, asked Sri Erumbiyappa to arise and welcomed Him with gentle words! Everyone went inside the Matam.

Swami Manavala Mamunigal, who knew that offering a Jivathma to Sri Ranganatha is of paramount importance, instructed His Disciples to perform Mangalaashaasanam [on His behalf] at the Srirangam Temple. Sri Erumbiyappa was immersed in the joy of admiring the Divya Mangala Roopa of Swami Manavala Mamunigal.

Here's another shloka from Sri Varavaramuni Shathakam that can be enjoyed in this specific context:

O Varavaramuni! Your Esteemed Self serves Bhagawan in various ways. To gladden Bhagawan’s heart and to uplift people like me, who are engulfed by the flames of Samsara, Your Esteemed Self has left even Paramapadham [Sri Vaikuntam] and Thou are residing here amongst men, conferring all auspicousness on Sri Rangam.

When the Disciples returned from the Temple, Swami Manavala Mamunigal listed all jewels that adorned Sri Ranganatha and the food items that were offered to Sri Ranganatha. Everyone, including Sri Erumbiyappa, was astonished to note the omniscience of Swami Manavala Mamunigal!

The next day, Sri Erumbiyappa, with the help of Sri Koil Annan’s recommendation, requested Swami Manavala Mamunigal to accept Him as His Disciple

Swami Manavala Mamunigal performed the Pancha Samskara for Sri Erumbiyappa. Sri Erumbiyappa was also blessed with the prasada of His Acharya. After a few days, Swami Manavala Mamunigal ordered Sri Erumbiyappa to go back home [and serve His Father].

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The Beautiful Guru-Shishya Relationship between Swami Manavala Mamunigal & Sri Erumbiyappa


Thereafter, Sri Erumbiyappa often visited Srirangam & served His beloved Acharya. Whenever Sri Erumbiyappa was in Srirangam to serve His Acharya, His Father would have to write to Swami Manavala Mamunigal to send Him back as Sri Erumbiyappa would never ever feel like going back to Erumbi. Whenever His Acharya asked Him to leave for Erumbi, He'd sadly go back home.

Even when living in Erumbi, Sri Erumbiyappa's thoughts were always with His Acharya at Srirangam. Here's a shloka from Sri Varavaramuni Shathakam that reflects His bhaavam:

River Kaveri flows in the southern part [of Bharatha Desham] and supports the lives of all worlds. That Dakshina Dhik [Southern Direction] has indeed performed penances because Sri Ranganatha, the Purushotthama, has chosen Sri Rangam as His residence. Swami Manavala Mamunigal is residing in that Dakshina Dhik and serves that very Sri Ranganatha with great joy and gratitude. By doing this, He is protecting us all. Let us bow down to that praiseworthy Dakshina Dhik.

When in Erumbi, Sri Erumbiyappa always meditated on Swami Manavala Mamunigal's Divine Daily Routine. Thus He composed Purva Dhinacharya & Utthara Dhinacharya of Swami Manavala Mamunigal. He sent them for Swami Manavala Mamunigal’s approval [through a Sri Vaishnava who was travelling to Srirangam].

Swami Manavala Mamunigal was moved by the immeasurable devotion of Sri Erumbiyappa. “Indeed! This is how an Abhimana Nishta [i.e. one who is solely dependent on the affection of His Acharya] would be!” He exclaimed.

Sri Erumbiyappa also received affectionate letters [Srimukham] from Swami Manavala Mamunigal & He too wrote back respectful letters in reply!

Finally, Swami Manavala Mamunigal gifted Sri Erumbiyappa with His Archa Thirumeni [Vigraha], Sri Padhukas & His Utthareeyam so that His affectionate Disciple would be able to serve Him without having to frequently shuttle between Erumbi & Srirangam.

When Swami Manavala Mamunigal had undertaken a Yathra to perform Mangalaashaasanam to other Divyadesas, He had reached Sri Kanchipuram during the famous Garuda Seva of the Vaishaka Month. Much to His surprise, He also happened to meet Sri Erumbiyappa, who was thoroughly enthralled to see His beloved Acharya. After the Uthsavam at Sri Kanchipuram, Swami Manavala Mamunigal paid a visit to Erumbi, graced several people there and also, named the place as ‘Vada [i.e. Northern] Thiruvarangam!’

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Sri Erumbiyappa's Heartfelt Outpourings


Sri Erumbiyappa had composed an Ashtakam on the famous Srishailesha Dayapathram Thaniyan of Sri Manavala Mamunigal - in that, He says, “Sri Nammazhvaar lovingly sings praises of Sriman Narayana; Sri Madhurakavigal lovingly sings praises of Sri Nammazhvaar; Sri Thiruvarangatthu Amudhanar [Ranga Sudha Kavi] lovingly sings praises of Swami Ramanuja; likewise, this humble servant [Sri Erumbiyappa] shall lovingly sing praises of Sri Manavala Mamunigal!”

Here's a shloka from Sri Varavaramuni Shathakam that reflects His respect for the Srishailesha Dayapathram Thaniyan:

O Varavaramuni! Sri Ranganatha Perumal, who reclines on Sri Adhishesha, chose Your Majesty as His Acharya. He gladly listened to the esoteric meanings [Rahasya Arthas] of Swami Nammazhwar's Thiruvaimozhi as explained by Your Esteemed Self and He made even fools realize Your Majesty's indescribable greatness [by means of making one and all chant the Thaniyan]!

And true to His word, in addition to Sri Varavaramuni Shathakam, Sri Erumbiyappa also composed many other eulogies on His Acharya like Sri Varavaramuni Panchashath, Sri Varavaramuni Gadhyam, Sri Varavaramuni Mangalaashasanam, Sri Varavaramuni Sthavam, Sri Varavaramuni Champu, etc.!

When Sri Manavala Mamunigal returned to Paramapadham, an utterly shocked and dejected Sri Erumbiyappa did nothing till the end except meditating on His Acharya and chanting His Acharya's Thirunamam!

Here's a shloka from Sri Varavaramuni Shathakam that is quite a heartmelting one and it makes one wonder how this plea of Sri Erumbiyappa has indeed been answered by His beloved Acharya:

O Varavaramuni! Whatever my mind may think, may that turn out to be thoughts of Your Esteemed Self. Whatever my tongue may utter, may that turn out to be the Divine Names of Your Esteemed Self. Whatever acts my body may perform, may they turn out to be vandhanam to Your Esteemed Self. May everything be an aradhana to Your Esteemed Self.

Sri Erumbiyappa would lament thus:

“O Varavaramuni! Pray kindly relieve me from this sullied body that has neither served Your Esteemed Self nor Swami Ramanuja! Indeed, this lowly self of mine is akin to an animal and has lost Thy grace because of my misdeeds [paapa karmaa]. The rising and setting of the sun normally reduces the longevity by a day, whereas it seems to be exclusively cruel to me as it seems to be increasing my longevity!”

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Sri Erumbiyappa's Heart of Gratitude


Sri Erumbiyappa was also greatly devoted to Sri Koil Annan as it was He who had appealed to Sri Manavala Mamunigal to shower His grace on Sri Erumbiyappa and thereby, helped Sri Erumbiyappa win the great Acharya's grace.

Here's a shloka from Sri Varavaramuni Shathakam that reflects Sri Erumbiyappa's bhakthi towards Sri Koil Annan:

O Varavaramuni! O Deva! O ocean of divine traits! Pray kindly shower your nectar-like divine glance on me. Do not disregard this lowly being, O Sire. Pray grace me by recognizing that am a servant of Sri Varada Narayana Guru [i.e. Sri Koil Annan].

Here's a shloka from Sri Varavaramuni Shathakam that reflects Sri Erumbiyappa's bhakthi for Dasanudasas of Swami Manavala Mamunigal:

O Varavaramuni! May the servants of those servants of Your Esteemed Self, who serve Your Esteemed Self in every possible manner, cast their compassionate glances on this lowly self and mark me as their humble servant. That is the most beneficial gift one could be blessed with. This humble servant desires nothing else.

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Sri Erumbiyappa's Conclusion of Sri Varavaramuni Shathakam


Sri Erumbiyappa concludes Sri Varavaramuni Shathakam with a glorious Mangalaashaasanam and an energizing phala shruthi. Let us enjoy them as well.

The Concluding Mangalaashaasanam - A great and lovely prayer that every Sri Vaishnava must recite:

Victory to the most famous Sri Rangam Divyadesham that confers auspicousness to all three worlds! Victory to Sri Ranganatha Perumal, who has been residing at Sri Rangam for long and shines as an ornament of Bhu Devi and Sri Devi! May Acharyas Swami Ramanuja, Swami Manavala Mamunigal and Sri Varada Guru [Sri Koil Annan] live long and bestow all auspicious blessings there!

The Phala Shruthi:

One who has taken a good birth and thereby, recites these 100 shlokas every day, shall be blessed with all that he desires and the results of even his most heinous sins shall be vanquished. Eventually, he will cross the ocean of Samsara.

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Sri Nallaan Chakravarthy & His Hunter Shishyas

Sri Nallaan Chakravarthy & His Hunter Shishyas

Image Credit: http://yathirajapadhuka.blogspot.com/2013/05/significant-74.html

Swami Ramanujacharya had a Shishya known as Sri Varadaraja Chakravarthi [Some say His name is Sri Varadaraja and that 'Chakravarthi' is an honorific]. As a service to His Acharya Swami Ramanuja, He lived in Sri Kanchipuram and served Sri Varadaraja Perumal.

One day, as Sri Varadaraja Chakravarthi was walking along the banks of River Vegavathi, He saw a corpse floating on the river and noticed that it was about to be washed ashore.

Slightly aghast, He waited on the banks and pulled the corpse out of the river. The body had no Yagnoyopaveetham [sacred thread] on it and was bedecked with the Shankha Chakra Mudras on the shoulders.

Sri Varadaraja Chakravarthi thought thus: "Ah, anaatha pretha samskaaram is a service dear to Sriman Narayana. And, this pious man has undergone the Pancha Samskara ritual and has thus become a Shishya of Swami Ramanuja Darshanam. It is my duty to accord due honours to His great body, as He has left for Sri Vaikuntam by the grace of my beloved Acharya Swami Ramanuja!".

Without further ado, Sri Varadaraja Chakravarthi cremated the body of the noble Sri Vaishnava with appropriate sacred rituals and due honours.

People in the neighbourhood were totally unhappy:

• "How dare he! The body had no Yagnyopaveetham!" said one of them.
• "How can a Brahmana do the anthima samskaram then, I ask you!" crowed another one.
• "I warned him and he arrograntly replied that a body of a Sri Ramanuja Dasa is more pious than that of a Brahmana and that it deserves the highest honour!" growled another.
• "What ignorance is this! He has clearly crossed the Varnashrama rules set by the Vedhas and he is not a Vaidhika Brahmana anymore!" said yet another.

And then, they made a unanimous decision and ex-communicated Sri Varadaraja Chakravarthi.

The next day, when they all assembled in front of Sri Kanchipuram Varadaraja Perumal to conduct the usual sacred rituals, Sri Varadaraja Perumal spoke through the Archaka: "Where is Varadaraja Chakravarthi? I don't see Him today!"

Those who had assembled there were taken aback. However, they respectfully replied: "Swami, He is a pollaan [பொல்லான் i.e. heretic, in this context] and hence, we have ex-communicated him!"

Sri Varadaraja Perumal promptly declared in His characteristic majestic voice: "He may be a pollaan for you but He is nallaan [நல்லான் i.e. pure-hearted aasthika, in this context] for me!"

Those who had denounced Sri Varadaraja Chakravarthi's act realized their mistake. They apologized to Sri Varadaraja Chakravarthi and restored normalcy in His life. From then, Sri Varadaraja Chakravarthi came to be famously known as "Nallaan Chakravarthi" and was addressed thus even by Swami Ramanujacharya!

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In the Kongu region of Thamizh Nadu, several tribes of hunters lived on the hills of the western ghats. One day, some of them were standing at the foot of the hills and they saw a Sri Vaishnava, wearing the Urdhva Pundram, walking nearby.

"Where do you come from, O sire?" they asked. The Sri Vaishnava replied that He is from Srirangam.

"Ah! Is Swami Ramanujacharya keeping good health and doing well? Is Sri Ranganatha Perumal safe and sound?" they enquired. They were in for a huge shock as the Sri Vaishnava said, "Alas, my good people! Swami Ramanujacharya, along with some of His Shishyas, has left Srirangam as His life is in great danger because of the fanatic ways of the present Chola king! There is no news of His whereabouts so far."

Hearing this, the entire tribe of hunters did not eat a single morsel of food for six days and were anxiously wondering about Swami Ramanujacharya's welfare.

On the sixth night, the hunters heard feeble voices, recognized that the dialect is that of Brahmanas. They rushed outside to find a group of Brahmanas, who were completely drenched in rain and shaking because of the cold. The hunters immediately took them to their place of residence, offered the Brahmanas dry garments to wear and dried those garments that were fully drenched.

The hunters asked, "Where do you all hail from?" One of the Brahmanas replied: "We are from Srirangam. We have been travelling for almost a week sans food. We lost our way, located your hut because of the fire you have lit inside and managed to reach this place!"

The hunters immediately asked, "Srirangam! Would you know if Swami Ramanujacharya is safe?"

The guests were astonizhed. "How do you know about Swami Ramanujacharya??" asked one of them.

The hunters replied: "Sri Nallaan Chakravarthi is our Acharya. He performed the Pancha Samskaaram for us and advised us to always meditate on the lotus feet of the great Swami Ramanujacharya."

The group of Brahmanas were overwhelmed. And then, one of the Brahmanas exclaimed, "Behold Swami Ramanujacharya, who is standing right here, in front of you, O pious people! He is dressed in white robes as Sri Kooratthazhwan had to wear Swami's saffron robes in the moment of grave danger!"

Hearing this, the hunter Shishyas immediately fell at the Acharya's divine feet and shed copious tears of grief. A completely moved Swami Ramanujacharya said, "Arise, my beloved children! My joy knows no bounds! The rain-bearing cloud named Nallaan Chakravarthi has showered the rain of compassion and, that too, in the middle of a forest like this!"

The hunter Shishyas offered millet flour and honey to Swami Ramanujacharya and those Shishyas who had travelled with Him. Swami Ramanujacharya and His Shishyas had the meal and, at last, were able to find some sleep that night.

The next day, the hunter Shishyas safely escorted Swami Ramanujacharya [and His Shishyas who had travelled with Him] to the residence of the chief hunter of another tribe.

The chief refrained from eating the food he had hunted for the day, ordered his men to escort Swami Ramanujacharya and His Shishyas to the residence of a Brahmana couple whom he knew and ensured that the couple were asked to immediately cook a sumptuous meal as Swami Ramanujacharya and His Shishyas had not eaten a proper, full meal for almost a week. And, that pious couple was none other than Sri Kongilachaan and Sri Kongil Piraatti.

Such was the calibre of Sri Nallaan Chakravarthi, who not only practised His Acharya's teachings but also preached them to one and all!

Indeed worthy of constant meditation are the nobility and sincerity of Sri Nallaan Chakravarthi's hunter Shishyas [affectionately addressed as "வேட முதலிகள்" (vEDa mudhaligaL) by Acharyas], who showered their great love and excellent care on Swami Ramanujacharya and His other Shishyas!

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Sri Embaar

Sri Embaar

Image Credit: https://pbase.com/svami

Swami Ramanujacharya is known as pancha aachaarya padha aashraya: i.e. one who took refuge in the feet of 5 Acharyas. All those 5 Acharyas were appointed by the Paramacharya [i.e. Guru's Guru] of Swami Ramanujacharya called Sri Yaamunaachaarya. One of those 5 Acharyas was Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal, who lived on the sacred Sri Venkatachala Hills to serve Sri Venkateshwara Swami.

Swami Ramanujacharya had a maternal cousin named Sri Govinda, who had taken refuge at the feet of Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal. He became His Shishya and served His Guru with dedication and devotion.

Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal had been instructed by His Guru to impart the divine secrets of Srimad Ramayanam to Swami Ramanujacharya. So, Swami Ramanujacharya undertook a yathra to Sri Venkatachala Hills and stayed there for a year to learn the nuances of Srimad Ramayanam. At that time, He got an opportunity to observe Sri Govinda on a daily basis.

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One day, Swami Ramanujacharya saw Sri Govinda returning to Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal's house after bathing in the sacred pond nearby. Suddenly, Sri Govinda made a detour, sat on the ground, put His fingers inside a snake's mouth, left the place again and then, was returning after another round of bathing in the sacred pond.

An intrigued Swami Ramanujacharya asked, "O Govinda, what did you do to the snake?" Sri Govinda replied, "The snake had bared its tongue and I saw that it had been pricked by a thorn. So, I removed the thorn, bathed in the sacred pond again and am returning to our Guru's house." Swami Ramanujacharya was highly impressed with Sri Govinda's compassion for all living beings.

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One night, Swami Ramanujacharya noticed Sri Govinda doing something very strange: He had made the bed for Their Guru but then He also slept on it for a couple of minutes before He left. "Alas! Why does He commit this blunder? His conduct must be corrected," thought Swami Ramanujacharya.

He raised this concern to Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal. The Guru summoned Sri Govinda and demanded an explanation. "Do you know what kind of hell awaits this sin?" He asked. Sri Govinda innocently replied, "As long as no insect bites Your Majesty, this humble servant shall gladly go to any hell." Both the Guru and Swami Ramanujacharya were pleasantly thunderstruck.

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After a year of Srimad Ramayanam Kalakshepam, Swami Ramanujacharya was ready to return to Srirangam. Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal, who knew that Swami Ramanujacharya was none but Sri Adhishesha himself, sadly said, "Wish I was able to give a wonderful personality like you a suitable parting gift!"

Swami Ramanujacharya smiled slightly and softly said, "O Gurudeva, if Your Majesty wishes thus, pray kindly present this humble servant of Your Majesty with Govinda!" An overjoyed Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal took Sri Govinda's right palm, placed it on Swami Ramanujacharya's right palm, poured some Theertham and said, "There! From now, Govinda will be your shishya, not mine!"

Therefore, Sri Govinda accompanied His new Acharya to Srirangam. However, by the time They had reached Sri Kanchipuram, Swami Ramanujacharya observed something - Sri Govinda looked quite pale in complexion and His eyes had the look of deep yearning! Swami Ramanujacharya merely said, "My dear Govinda, please go back to Thirumala Hills and pay your obeisances to Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal once".

A quietly excited Sri Govinda rushed back with joy, stood in front of Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal's house with joined palms and cried, "O Swamin! This is Your Majesty's humble servant, Govinda!" Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal was aghast. "Alas! He has still not understood the greatness of Swami Ramanuja and is pining for me instead. I must not allow this for his own good," thought Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal.

So, Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal looked at His Wife and said, "Ask the lunatic to go away!" Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal's Wife felt sorry for Sri Govinda. "Why don't you please offer him Your Majesty's Sripadha Theertham and Prasadam?" She pleaded. However, Sri Periya Thirumalai Nambigal was firm. "Why should I feed a cow that I have already sold, eh?" He demanded in a loud and clear voice.

Sri Govinda understood. He made a shashtanga namaskaram once again and immediately left to join Swami Ramanujacharya. When He narrated all that happened, Swami Ramanujacharya was inwardly happy but said nothing.

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As days passed by, Sri Govinda was attracted to the magnificent Swami Ramanujacharya - the Acharya's incomparable grace, leonine majesty, imposing physical effulgence and charm and what not - Sri Govinda's heart was completely captivated!

During this timeframe, the other Shishyas of Swami Ramanujacharya were very happy with Their new peer as They found Sri Govinda's conduct to be pure. One day, They showered praises on Sri Govinda's conduct in front of Him. "How very humble!" said one Shishya, while "Indeed, quite devoted to Acharya too" said another Shishya and another Shishya said, "What a sense of detachment!"

And then, much to everyone's shock, Sri Govinda too expressed great joy and joined Them in praising His conduct!!! "Of course! Of course! Am indeed very humble! Am certainly filled with Guru Bhakthi! The sense of detachment is peerless!" He said.

The Shishyas were outraged - "Sri Govinda blowing His own trumpets??!!" They could not believe Their ears! After Sri Govinda left the place, They made a beeline for Swami Ramanujacharya's Mutt and narrated whatever had taken place.

Swami Ramanujacharya summoned Sri Govinda and enquired, "What is this I hear, Govinda? When someone praises you, you must explicitly list your flaws for everyone to know and keep your ego in check! Don't you know that Athma Sthuthi [self-praise] is a vice?"

Sri Govinda was terrified. He immediately fell at the Feet of Swami Ramanujacharya and cried, "Alas! O Acharya! How can this lowly self be worthy of any praise whatsoever had it not been for Your Majesty's grace? All my praiseworthy attributes are purely due to Your Majesty's divya kataksham on this lowly self! Thus, praising the conduct of this servant of Your Majesty is but a tribute only to Your Majesty! Hence, joined Them in showering the praise!"

While the Shishyas who had complained were smiling at each other in pleasant surprise, Swami Ramanujacharya stood up and said, "Arise, my dear Govinda!" When Sri Govinda rose from the ground and stood with folded palms, Swami Ramanujacharya embraced Him with great affection and said, "O virtuous, virtuous, Govinda! Pray embrace me with Thy beautiful bosom so that Thy good traits shall influence me as well!"

Is there anything else to be said at all?

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Later, Swami Ramanujacharya understood that Sri Govinda did not have even an iota of interest in Gruhasthashrama Dharma and made Him take up Sanyasa. Initially, Swami Ramanujacharya named the new Sanyasi as "Emperumaanaar" [i.e. it was the name awarded to Swami Ramanuja by His Guru Sri Thirugoshtiyur Nambigal]. However, Sri Govinda said, "O Acharya, am but the shadow of Thy Majesty's Lotus Feet and am not strong enough to bear Thy Majesty's Divine Name!" Swami Ramanujacharya thought for a moment and then named Him "Embaar" [meaning "My resting place"].

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Swami Ramanujacharya and Sri Embaar knew each other's hearts very well.

One day, Swami Ramanujacharya and His Shishyas were attending the Arayar Sevai [where Azhwar Paasurams are rendered using Sangeetham & Bharathanatyam]. When the Arayar showed the Mudras for explaining a paasuram line [in Sri Periyazhwar Thirumozhi] that talked about how little Krishna scared the rest of the Gopas, the Arayar folded His eyelids, such that the reddish skin beneath could be seen, creating a frightening effect.

However, when the same line was sung again, the Arayar changed His Abhinayam - this time He demonstrated how little Krishna scared the rest of the Gopas just by showing His original Paramathma roopam holding the Shankha & Chakra! Immediately, Swami Ramanujacharya, who was seated in the front row, turned around with a smile, caught Sri Embaar's eye and said, "Ah Govinda, you are here, of course!"

And, it was indeed Sri Embaar who had communicated [through sign language] to the Arayar, just a few minutes earlier, to change His Mudra for that line and Swami Ramanujacharya, who thoroughly admired this explanation, knew that the change was suggested by Him!!

One night, Swami Ramanujacharya was taking a brief walk after completing His dinner. He was contemplating the lines of a specific paasuram in Swami Nammazhwar's Thiruvaimozhi. One of the phrases in the paasuram meant "turning around" and, without being aware of what He was doing, Swami Ramanujacharya turned around all of a sudden. Sri Embaar saw this and immediately enquired if Swami Ramanujacharya was meditating on that very same paasuram line!! Swami Ramanujacharya was quite gladdened.

None of these incidents shook Sri Embaar's humility & Acharya Bhakthi though. He remained a Dasa of Sri Ramanujacharya always. One day, a few Shishyas approached Sri Embaar and requested Him to clarify the meaning of a specific line in Sri Periyazhwar Thirumozhi. For a few moments, Sri Embaar was puzzled. And then, He had an idea. He placed the Padhukas of Swami Ramanujacharya on His head and meditated on Swami Ramanujacharya's Lotus Feet for a few moments. He easily answered the question thereafter!

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When Swami Ramanujacharya left for Paramapadham, Sri Embaar was unable to bear the separation but still attempted to get along. Beyond a point, however, He saw that His efforts were futile and that He was unable to bear the separation from His Acharya. He went to Sri Ranganatha Perumal and stood with an Anjali Mudra. His eyes were filled with tears and He simply said, "O Ranganatha! I need to serve the Lotus Feet of my Acharya Swami Ramanuja!"

Sri Ranganatha Perumal, who knew the depth of His suffering, immediately granted His wish.

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Pearls from Sri Yathiraja Sapthathi

Pearls from Sri Yathiraja Sapthathi

Introduction

Sri Vedanthacharyar, the Kavithaarkika Simham, has composed a tribute to Swami Ramanujacharya called Sri Yathiraja Sapthathi. This beautiful shloka grantha has 74 shlokas in memory of the 74 Simhasanadhipathis appointed by Swami Ramanujacharya. The grantha commences with a heartwarming tribute to each of all Sri Vaishnava Acharyas who precede Swami Ramanujacharya viz.: Sri Ranganatha Perumal Sri Ranganayaki Thayar Sri Vishvaksenar Swami Nammazhwar Sriman Nathamunigal Sri Uyyakkondaar Sri Manakkaal Nambigal Sri Aalavandhaar [Paramacharya of Swami Ramanuja] Sri Periya Nambigal [Acharya of Swami Ramanuja] This brief essay aims to enjoy a few pearls from the grantha through 5 of the different aspects of the grantha viz.: Dhyanam & Mangalashasanam of Swami Ramanujacharya Greatness of Swami Ramanujacharya's Divine Feet The Uttharakathvam [ability to grant Moksham] of Swami Ramanujacharya The Greatness of Swami Ramanujacharya's Sri Sukthis The Sweetness of the Phala Shruthi

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Section 1 - Dhyanam & Mangalashasanam of Swami Ramanujacharya

Sri Vedanthacharyar - Sri Yathiraja Sapthathi - Shloka # 15, 28

Meaning/s of the Shloka/s

Shloka # 15: Here, Sri Vedanthacharyar describes the Sri Vaishnava Guru Parampara as a necklace [haaram]. He says that Swami Ramanujacharya is the naayaka rathnam [central ruby stone] of the haaram. Due to the naayaka rathnam, the necklace emanates extraordinary radiance and acquires the status of being an excellent, joyful object of meditation for the learned. Shloka # 28: Here, Sri Vedanthacharyar describes Swami Ramanujacharya using 4 grand similies and says "jayathi" i.e. as a quintessential Sri Vaishnava, He performs mangalaashaasanam for Swami Ramanujacharya. The 4 grand similies are - Swami Ramanujacharya is like: A great mountain that is the source of all rivers of knowledge A lush green tree whose shadow assuages the fatigue of the scorching, long journey of samsaaraa The rising sun that dispels the darkness of ignorance present in those who misinterpret the Vedhas The full moon that makes the ocean of Vedhas exult in joy

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Section 2 - Greatness of Swami Ramanujacharya's Divine Feet

Sri Vedanthacharyar - Sri Yathiraja Sapthathi - Shloka # 18, 20

Meaning/s of the Shloka/s

Shloka # 18: Sri Vedanthacharyar comes up with a very beautiful metaphor for Swami Ramanujacharya's Divine Feet: He desribes the Lotus Feet as "padha padma pattanam" i.e. the pair of Lotus Feet is a city! Even if people of poor intellect and conduct reach and reside in this city, they shall become people of good intellect, pure conduct and also, become excellent Sri Vaishnavas and would offer themselves to be sold for the welfare of other Sri Vaishnavas. Note: Here, Sri Vedanthacharyar has directly translated Sri Periyazhwar's paasuram where the epitome of Sri Vaishnava Lakshanam has been desribed as "enthammai virkavum peruvaargalE" i.e. a pure Sri Vaishnava would even offer Himself to be sold for the welfare of Bhagavan and His Dasas. Shloka # 20: Now, Sri Vedanthacharyar reaches the very city that He celebrated in Shloka 18 i.e. He performs Sharanagathi. He says, "The impure mind of this lowly self is unsteady. Swami Ramanujacharya's Divine Feet is the medicine that will stabilize my wavering mind. That Divine Feet can grant everything including moksham. For the noble, Swami Ramanujacharya's Divine Feet is superior even to Sriman Narayana's Divine Feet. I seek refuge in those Divine Feet!"

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Section 3 - The Uttharakathvam of Swami Ramanujacharya

Sri Vedanthacharyar - Sri Yathiraja Sapthathi - Shloka # 56, 59, 60

Meaning/s of the Shloka/s

Shloka # 56: Sri Vedanthacharyar says that Swami Ramanujacharya is a radiant oil lamp and that the oil that nourishes the lamp is "nirupadhi para snEha bharitha:" i.e. the causeless mercy of Sriman Narayana [on beings like us]. "How can the learned avoid a fall into the dark cave of kutharka vaadham [flawed logic with fallacies] if this oil lamp does not glow brightly?" exclaims Sri Vedanthacharyar. Shloka # 59: Here, Sri Vedanthacharyar declares that only Swami Ramanujacharya's Divine Feet can grant Moksham and sweetly prays that everyone in this world should be blessed with the auspicious sambandham of those Divine Feet. He also says, "Swami Ramanujacharya's Divine Feet is worshipped by the heads of those noble people, who are not plagued by blemishes like attachment to wealth, etc." In this shloka, Sri Vedanthacharyar comes up with yet another adorable metaphor. He says, "My mind is an intoxicated, mad elephant that runs helter-skelter in the forest of ignorance while Swami Ramanujacharya's Divine Feet is that powerful chain which [alone] can control the mad elephant." Shloka # 60: This shloka is such a gem, really. Sri Vedanthacharyar compares the compassion of Swami Ramanujacharya to that of a bountiful, flowing river and says: [As Swami Ramanujacharya owns the ability to grant Moksha] The origin of the river is Sri Vaikuntam and it nourishes the Jivathmas who attained Sri Vaikuntam. The river washes away the sins of all sentient beings. The river has been nourished by Acharyas like Sri Aalavandhaar. The river has an undisturbed, unobstructed flow. My arrogant self was seated on a higher plane. Yet the flow of the river, for no reason, travelled upwards [!!] and made me too follow its current! Thus, Sri Vedanthacharyar has established the Utthaarakathvam of Swami Ramanujacharya i.e. the only Acharya whose Sripaadha Sambandham can grant Moksha.

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Section 4 - The Greatness of Swami Ramanujacharya's Sri Sukthis

Sri Vedanthacharyar - Sri Yathiraja Sapthathi - Shloka # 43, 48, 67, 68

Meaning/s of the Shloka/s

Background: Even at the tender age of five, Sri Venkatanatha [the original name of Sri Vedanthacharyar] showed remarkable prowess in Sri Bhashyam, the Grantha authored by Swami Ramanujacharya [it expounds the Visishtadvaitha Siddhantham]. He was heartily blessed by the great Acharya Sri Nadathur Ammal that the child prodigy will do a remarkable kainkaryam in the samrakshanam of the Visishtadvaitha Siddhantham. As always, the Acharya Kataksham and Anugraham came true and Sri Venkatanatha Guru was conferred the title of "Vedanthacharya" by none other than Sri Ranganatha Perumal Himself. In this Sthuthi, Sri Vedanthacharyar, as a true Shishya, has declared Swami Ramanujacharya and the content of His Divya Granthas as the source of His prowess in several shlokas out of which we'd enjoy a few in this essay. Shloka # 43: Sri Vedanthacharyar says, "Those who are ignorant will misjudge the divine Granthas of Swami Ramanujacharya by their size. Swami Ramanujacharya has captured the essence of Veda Vedantha. Hence, it is but natural that His Granthas are small in size. One may place a big boulder and the Divine Kausthubha Gem on a scale and find the boulder to be heavier. Will it be wise to conclude that the boulder is greater than the Kausthubha Gem merely because of its weight? Shloka # 48: Here, Sri Vedanthacharyar says, "We continuously meditate on the content of Swami Ramanujacharya's Divya Granthas because: It is the lamp that illuminates the Jivathma Thathva in this dark world of ignorance It is the tree that offers ripe, low-hanging fruits of Paramathma Thathva Gnanam for those who are hungry to obtain it It is easily understandable." Shloka # 67: Here, Sri Vedanthacharyar declares His gratitude to Guru Upadesha of Swami Ramanujacharya's Divya Granthas: "Due to the anugraha of Sadhacharyas, my heart is filled with the knowledge of Swami Ramanujacharya's Divya Granthas, which have demolished the incorrect claims of those who do not accept the Vedhas and the incorrect explanations of those who misinterpret the Vedhas. Thus, the Consort of Sri Mahalakshmi has cast His cooling glances on my intellect due to which my mind has attained the pinnacle of Vedhas [i.e. Sriman Narayana]!" Shloka # 68: Sri Kavithaarkika Simham roars thus: "A well-armed warrior will be invincible in battle. Likewise, am well-armed with the content of Swami Ramanujacharya's Divya Granthas and hence, my knowledge is blemishless. Swami Ramanujacharya's Divya Granthas are rich in meaning, beautiful, laden with the very essence of Vedhas and true forever. Now, who can defeat me, who is equipped with these handsome weapons [i.e. content of Swami Ramanujacharya's Divya Granthas], in an intellectual debate?"

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Section 5 - The Sweetness of the Phala Shruthi

Sri Vedanthacharyar - Sri Yathiraja Sapthathi - Shloka # 74

Meaning/s of the Shloka/s

Shloka # 74: Sri Vedanthacharyar blesses saying, "May those who eagerly learn this Yathiraja Sapthathi be ardent followers of sathsampradhayam, always listen to content of divine granthas and be completely devoid of jealousy!"

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Conclusion

Sri Yathiraja Sapthathi is perhaps the only shloka grantha that has particularly celebrated the Sri Sukthis of Swami Ramanujacharya in detail. Even in the phalashruthi, Sri Vedanthacharyar has blessed the learner with the fortune to listen to the content of Divya Granthas! Swami Ramanujacharya authored several Vedhantha Granthas viz. Vedhantha Deepam, Vedhantha Saaram, Vedhartha Sangraham, Sri Bhashyam and Geetha Bhashyam. Sri Bhashyam is a commentary on the Brahmasuthram [essence of Upanishads by Sri Vedha Vyasa] as per the Vishishtadvaitha Siddhantha. Now, an Acharya named Sri Sudarshana Suri authored a commentary on Sri Bhashyam and that is known as Shruthaprakashikai. When the barbaric Islamic attack on Srirangam took place, 12000-13000 Sri Vaishnavas were massacred and Srirangam roads were flooded with blood. It was Sri Vedanthacharyar who, as per the instructions of Sri Sudarshana Suri, saved both the children of Sri Sudarshana Suri and the commentary Shruthaprakashikai by acting like a corpse lying on the pool of blood. As Sri Vedanthacharyar performed the Vishishtadvaitha Samrakshana Kainkaryam [which was propelled by the blessings of Acharya Sri Nadathur Ammal], He celebrates the source of the prowess that enabled the kainkaryam through this great shloka grantha. "gurum prakaashayEth dheemaan" - the wise one highlights the glories of the Guru. Jaya Jaya Sri Vedanthacharya! Jaya Jaya Sri Vedanthacharya!

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All Pasuram Quotations Source: http://www.acharya.org/wp/ & http://www.prapatti.com/

Sri Vaduga Nambigal

Sri Vaduga Nambigal

Image Credit: https://guruparamparai.wordpress.com

This brief series of Shathrughna Padi will surely be incomplete if one doesn't immerse in the great anubhavam of the Shathrughna Padi of Sri Vaduga Nambi also known as Sri Andhra Purna.

Sri Vaduga Nambi is honoured as THE Shishya of Swami Ramanujacharya when it comes to adherence to Shathrughna Padi. Why? Let us see.

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One day, Sri Vaduga Nambi was boiling milk for Swami Ramanujacharya. Swami Ramanujacharya called saying, "Vaduga! Come out quickly! Sri Ranganatha is out on a procession!"

An unperturbed Sri Vaduga Nambi plainly said, "O Acharya, if I come to honour Your God [Sri Ranganatha] then the milk I need to boil for my God will spill over. So, I must not come out!"

Swami Ramanujacharya was surprised.

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Another day, Swami Ramanujacharya had to leave His Mutt on a short Yathra and Sri Vaduga Nambi, who was to accompany the Acharya, was packing everything for the journey.

When Swami Ramanujacharya saw the packing, He cried, "Vaduga! Alas! What have you done!" for Sri Vaduga Nambi had packed Swami Ramanujacharya's Thiruvaradhana Deity [Sri Varadharaja Perumal] and His own Thiruvaradhana Deity [which was nothing but the Holy Sandals of Swami Ramanujacharya]!!!

Pat came the polite yet firm reply: "How is my God inferior to Your God, O Acharya?"

Swami Ramanujacharya was speechless.

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And, on another day, when Swami Ramanujacharya was offering affectionate worship to Sri Ranganatha, He noticed that Sri Vaduga Nambi was offering affectionate worship to Swami Ramanujacharya! "Do worship the beautiful eyes of Sri Ranganatha, Vaduga!" said Swami Ramanujacharya.

However, Sri Vaduga Nambi coolly said, "After drinking this nectar of mine [i.e. Swami Ramanujacharya], why would I relish something else [Sri Ranganatha]?" This was actually a line of the verse Sri Thiruppanazhwar had sung for Sri Ranganatha!!

Swami Ramanujacharya was pleasantly amazed by His Shishya's affection for Him.

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One day, another Shishya of Swami Ramanujacharya was reciting "Narayana" Nama.

Sri Periyazhwar had composed a pasuram that said it is useless to have a tongue that doesn't chant Bhagavan's Namas. Sri Vaduga Nambi quoted that very same phrase but said, "Why are you wasting the purpose of having a tongue by reciting this? Chant "Ramanuja", O Sire!"

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It is customary not to wash our hands after partaking Prasadam. One must eat the Prasadam with respect [as per the customary tradition of not touching our palm / fingers with the tongue / teeth] and just wipe our palms on our head. This is a mark of respect.

One day, Swami Ramanujacharya noticed that Sri Vaduga Nambi was following this norm for Him, when Sri Vaduga Nambi ate the remnants from the plaintain leaf in which Swami Ramanujacharya had eaten.

"Vaduga! What are you doing now? Wash your hands hereafter!" He rebuked mildly. Swami Ramanujacharya meant that the norm must be followed only for the Prasadam distributed after Thiruvaradhanam. Sri Vaduga Nambi said nothing and did as instructed.

The next day, at Srirangam Temple, when Sri Ranganatha's Prasadam was distributed to everyone assembled, Sri Vaduga Nambi ate the Prasadam that Swami Ramanujacharya offered to Him. And then, He washed His hands.

Swami Ramanujacharya noticed this and demanded, "Vaduga! Why did you wash your hands now?" An unfazed Sri Vaduga Nambi bowed and replied, "O Acharya, am carrying out the orders Your Majesty had given yesterday!"

This time, Swami Ramanujacharya was quite moved and said, "I concede, Vaduga. I have lost to you!" An honour no other Shishya has won from Swami Ramanujacharya!

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Sri Vaduga Nambi also questioned Sri Kooratthazhwan and Sri Mudhaliyandan, the 2 prime Shishyas of Swami Ramanujacharya, who uttered both "Sri Ranganatha Padharavindha Sharanam" and "Swami Ramanuja Padharavindha Sharanam" - "How can one hold on to two banks of a river at the same time?" He asked Them politely [making Them both smile at Him in reverence and admiration, of course!].

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Sri Vaduga Nambi never took the Sripadha Theertham of anyone but His most beloved Acharya. When Swami Ramanujacharya left for Paramapadham, it was on Sri Vaduga Nambi's lap the Acharya had placed His Divine Feet [while He had placed His Head on Sri Embaar's lap].

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Sri Vaduga Nambi also shared His wealth with us all by blessing us with the Charithram [Sri Yathiraja Vaibhavam] and Ashtotthara Shatha Nama Sthothram of His beloved Acharya!

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At the time of leaving this world, Sri Vaduga Nambi's only instruction to His Shishyas was this: "Here, take care of my Deity - Swami Ramanujacharya Sri Padhukas - even if it means you will have to toil hard for it. My Swami Ramanujacharya Sri Padhukas are the greatest treasures in this universe" and then He left.

At that time, when some people exclaimed, "Sri Vaduga Nambi left for Paramapadham," another Shishya of Swami Ramanujacharya, named Sri Devaraja Muni, said, "Nay. In case of Sri Vaduga Nambi, we must only say 'He attained the Lotus Feet of Swami Ramanujacharya!'".

That sums it up perfectly, doesn't it?

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Sri Varadhacharya & Srimathi Lakshmi

Sri Varadhacharya & Srimathi Lakshmi

Image Credit: http://www.mudaliandan.com/ramanujar.php

Near Sri Kanchipuram, there lived a highly pious couple called Sri Varadhacharya and Srimathi Lakshmi. They were sincere Shishyas of Swami Ramanujacharya.

The Couple lived in such dire poverty that Srimathi Lakshmi did not even have an upper garment to cover Her. However, She always meditated on the Dvaya Mahamanthra [as taught by Swami Ramanujacharya] with devotion.

The Couple offered whatever Sri Varadhacharya could earn [during His unchavritthi for the day] to the Deity in Their hut and ate the Prasadam.

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One day, Swami Ramanujacharya, who was on a Yathra to Sri Venkatachala Hills, stood at the doorstep of Their hut with His Shishyas! Sri Varadhacharya had gone out for unchavritthi. The place was silent but the doors of the hut were slightly open.

"Varadha, are you there, my child?" called out the Acharya.

Srimathi Lakshmi, who was inside, immediately identified the majestic voice and was aghast. She thought thus: "It is indeed an indescribable fortune that Swami Ramanujacharya has arrived at our doorstep!!! Alas, I do not have an upper garment! How can I go out and receive the great Acharya? If I remain silent, the great Acharya may think that no one is in the house and may leave!"

And then, She had an idea. She clapped Her hands loudly to indicate that She had heard the Acharya and that the hut is indeed occupied!

Swami Ramanujacharya frowned slightly for a moment. And then, He threw His saffron utthareeyam inside the hut!

Srimathi Lakshmi donned the utthareeyam as Acharya Prasadam, came out of the hut, prostrated in front of Swami Ramanujacharya and His Shishyas. She welcomed Them inside the hut and offered due respects.

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Srimathi Lakshmi had a great desire to serve Swami Ramanujacharya and His Shishyas with fresh, tasty food. However, not even a single grain was available in the house and the couple had no vessels to store anything either! How will the few grains, that Sri Varadacharya might bring after unchavritthi, ever suffice to sumptuously feed Swami Ramanujacharya and His Shishyas?

While the Acharyas and His Shishyas were resting after a tiring journey, Srimathi Lakshmi made a decision:

"Swami Ramanujacharya is greater than even Sriman Narayana Himself for it is He who uplifts lowly beings like me from the ocean of samsara and grants Moksha. Can Swami Ramanujacharya's kindness ever be repaid? Is it not my Dharma, as a Shishya, to do my very best for the welfare of the Acharya and His Dasas?

Sri Thirumangai Azhwar had stolen wealth to offer food to Sriman Narayana Dasas. He was only blessed greatly by Sriman Narayana for that.

How can it be then wrong on my part to sell my body, which is after all filled with pus, blood, etc., for the sake of serving my Acharya and His Dasas?"

Srimathi Lakshmi then bowed down in front of Swami Ramanujacharya and said: "O Acharya, welome, along with Your fortunate Shishyas, to this humble abode! Pray kindly rest inside the place while I fetch groceries and vessels to cook a meal for Your Majesty and Shishyas. My husband will soon be back from His daily unchavritthi routine!"

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Srimathi Lakshmi then hurried to the house of a merchant who lived nearby. The merchant, with an evil intent, had been trying to obtain Srimathi Lakshmi's attention and had even attempted to woo Her by sending Her expensive gifts. Of course, it was all in vain.

Srimathi Lakshmi met the merchant, smiled at him and spoke in a pleasant tone: "Your wish shall be satisfied today. My Acharya and His Shishyas have graced our humble abode. Send me enough groceries and vessels so that I can cook & serve a sumptuous meal for my great Acharya and His Dasas!"

The merchant could not believe his ears. "She has never cared to spare even a glance of disdain for me or my gifts! If she has come in search of me and is talking thus then I can be sure that my senses will be gratified today," he thought in evil glee. So, he sent Srimathi Lakshmi all that She had asked for.

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When all groceries and vessels had arrived, Swami Ramanujacharya looked at Srimathi Lakshmi and said, "My child, perform your ablutions and cook a meal to offer to my Thiruvaradhana Deity Sri Varadharaja Perumal!" The Acharya also ordered a couple of His Shishyas to help Srimathi Lakshmi prepare a meal and left for His ablutions.

Srimathi Lakshmi, along with the other few Shishyas, prepared a fresh, tasty, sumptuous meal. Swami Ramanujacharya offered it to Sri Varadharaja Perumal and then everyone, including the Acharya, ate the Prasadam. Swami Ramanujacharya and His Shishyas were completely satisfied with the excellent service of Srimathi Lakshmi.

After a short while, Sri Varadhacharya was back home. Overjoyed to behold the excellent sight that He was blessed with, Sri Varadhacharya paid obeisances to Swami Ramanujacharya and His Shishyas.

And then, Srimathi Lakshmi found an opportune moment to have a private word with Sri Varadhacharya and quickly narrated all that had happened in Sri Varadhacharya's absence. An extremely pleased Sri Varadacharya said, "My dear good lady, am truly proud of your righteous deed! What a wonder you are, O beautiful lady! How fortunate I am to have been blessed with a peerless wife like you!"

And then, Sri Varadhacharya fell at the Holy Feet of Swami Ramanujacharya and sang the glories of the Acharya to the best of His abilities.

The pious Couple then took the Sripadha Theertham and Prasadam offered by Swami Ramanujacharya. Swami Ramanujacharya was highly impressed with the pure hearts and blemishless conduct of the Couple.

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The Couple then went to the merchant's house. A stoic Srimathi Lakshmi went inside the house while the noble Sri Varadacharya was waiting outside.

Srimathi Lakshmi had taken along with Her a small cup of Swami Ramanujacharya's Sripadha Theertham and Prasadam! She offered the same to the merchant.

No sooner than the merchant had taken the Sripadha Theertham and Prasadam, he underwent a Himalayan transformation. He fell at the feet of Srimathi Lakshmi, circumambulated Her with an anjali mudra, and cried thus: "O pious Mother, pray forgive this ignorant son of yours! Pray kindly shower on me Thy grace and recommend my pathetic case to Swami Ramanujacharya!"

An astonished Srimathi Lakshmi rushed outside and narrated the wonderful event to Her noble Husband! The Merchant fell at the feet of Sri Varadacharya and begged His pardon. Sri Varadacharya gently consoled the Merchant and took Him to Swami Ramanujacharya.

Swami Ramanujacharya granted Pancha Samskara to the Merchant and the Merchant became a pious Sri Ramanuja Dasa!

The Merchant offered great wealth at Swami Ramanujacharya's holy Feet and beseeched the Acharya to accept them all. Swami Ramanujacharya granted the Merchant's wish.

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Swami Ramanujacharya stayed at the phenomenal Couple's abode for a few days, heartily blessed Them and continued His Yathra.

Swami Ramanujacharya appointed Sri Varadhacharya as one of the 74 Simhasanadhipathis [i.e. the 74 Shishyas who can offer Pancha Samskara to anyone interested in obtaining Swami Ramanuja Sripadha Sambandham].

Sri Varadhacharya is more famously known as Sri Parutthi Kollai Ammaal. Srimathi Lakshmi is also addressed as Srimathi Parutthi Kollai Lakshmi

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Sri Dhanurdasar & Srimathi Ponnaachiyaar

Sri Dhanurdasar & Srimathi Ponnaachiyaar

Image Credit: https://guruparamparai.wordpress.com/

In the Chozha Divyadesam of Uraiyur [Thirukkozhi], there lived a wrestler named Dhanurdasar. He was the bodyguard of the Chozha King. He had a beautiful wife named Ponnaachiyaar.

One day, on a hot afternoon, Dhanurdasar and Ponnaachiyaar were on their way to Srirangam [to worship Sri Namperumal during the Brahmothsavam]. Dhanurdasar was quite concerned that the hot rays of the sun may scorch his wife's beauty. So, he carefully held an umbrella for her such that she'd be totally protected from the rays.

A short distance away, Swami Ramanujacharya and His Shishyas were arriving from the banks of River Kaveri after completing the Maadhyaanika ablutions.

Some Shishyas of Swami Ramanuja informed the Acharya about the excessive attention Dhanurdasar showed to his wife. Swami Ramanuja asked a couple of His Shishyas to bring Dhanurdasar to Him. When they did, Swami Ramanuja said, "O wrestler, you are someone who would not care for your life and are fierce in the battlefield. Why do you show this excessive attention to your wife?"

Dhanurdasar promptly said, "Sire, I am a slave of her beautiful eyes. Deeply caught in the mesh of their beauty, I want to serve her beauty!"

Swami Ramanuja smiled slightly and asked, "What if I show you a pair of eyes that far surpasses the beauty of your wife's eyes?"

Dhanurdasar exclaimed, "Sire, if such a pair of eyes indeed exists, I shall surely become a slave of those eyes!"

Swami Ramanuja said, "Come along with me!" Ponnaachiyaar too followed her husband.

Swami Ramanuja took the wrestler & made him stand in front of the Garbagruham of Sri Ranganatha Perumal and prayed to Sri Ranganatha Perumal thus: "O Sri Ranganatha! For the sake of this humble servant, pray kindly show the beauty of Thy incomparably beautiful eyes to Dhanurdasa!"

The next moment, Sri Ranganatha Perumal enabled both Dhanurdasar and Ponnaachiyaar to see His Eyes - the very Eyes that are fit to drink the beauty of Sri Mahalakshmi. The couple was thunderstruck.

Sri Dhanurdasar was beside Himself with ecstasy. He immediately fell at Swami Ramanuja's Feet and shed tears of great gratitude.

Swami Ramanuja said, "Arise, dear Dhanurdasa!"

Swami Ramanujacharya awarded the couple Pancha Samskaram and thus the couple became Swami's Shishyas. The couple showed exemplary devotion to Swami Ramanuja. With time, They won the heart of Their Guru with Their impeccable devotion & conduct.

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One day, when Swami Ramanuja was explaining Sri Vibhishana Sharanagathi in Srimad Ramayanam, Sri Dhanurdasar stood up in the middle of the discourse.

"What is it, my child?" asked Swami Ramanuja.

"O Acharya, if Vanaras examined the integrity of Sri Vibhishana, who had left behind all His relatives and possessions, how will my lowly self, who is still attached to kinsmen and wealth, attain Moksha?" asked Sri Dhanurdasar in a voice choked with emotion.

Swami Ramanuja smiled and said, "Grieve not, my child! You shall attain Moksha by virtue of your association with my feet. I shall attain by virtue of my association with my Acharya's Feet. So on and so forth. Our Guru Parampara reaches the divine Feet of Swami Nammazhwar, who has attained Moksha, and ends with the Sri Ranganatha, the Beloved of our most compassionate Mother Sri Mahalakshmi!"

Sri Dhanurdasar beamed in delight and bowed to Swami Ramanuja’s Feet in sheer gratitude.

---

Another day, 4 Shishyas of Swami Ramanuja [Sri Ecchaan, Sri Thondanur Nambi, Sri Maruthur Nambi, Sri Thiruvananthazhwan] prostrated at Swami Ramanuja's Feet and said, "O Acharya, we have a confusion - does the Athma have only one Acharya? Or does it have many Acharyas? Pray kindly clarify!"

Swami Ramanuja merely said, "Present this question to Ponnaachiyaar. She'll answer!"

The 4 Shishyas went to Sri Dhanurdasar's house & knocked. When Srimathi Ponnaachiyaar opened the doors, They greeted Her with joined palms and said, "O Swamini, our Acharya Swami Ramanuja instructed us to obtain a clarification from Your Majesty" and explained the query.

Srimathi Ponnaachiyaar unbraided Her hair, tied up all strands together again and pulled them into a bun. And then, She said, "How can this lowly self answer such a question, O respected Sirs? May Swami Ramanuja answer it, please!" And then, She took a thread of saffron color that was lying on the ground, placed it on Her head and went inside a room.

The 4 Shishyas were perplexed and went back to Swami Ramanuja and said, "O Acharya, Srimathi Ponnaachiyaar said that it is beyond Her and that only Your Majesty can answer our query!"

However, Swami Ramanuja asked, "What was she doing when you were conversing with her?"

The Shishyas explained all that They had observed. Swami Ramanuja smiled slightly and said, "She has answered your query."

The 4 Shishyas were astonished. "How is it, O Acharya? Pray enlighten us!" They pleaded.

Swami Ramanuja explained:

"When she unbraided her hair, she indicated that one may have many Acharyas from different perspectives.

By tying all strands of her hair together & pulling them into a single bun, she indicated that only one Acharya, however, shall grant Paramapadham.

By placing a saffron thread on her head, she has indicated that I [i.e. Swami Ramanuja] am that one Acharya who'd grant Moksham.

By entering inside a room, she has indicated that one should keep me [Swami Ramanuja] inside one's heart and worship me with devotion."

The 4 Shishyas were truly moved by the Guru Bhakthi and humility of Srimathi Ponnaachiyaar.

---

Sri Dhanurdasar's heart was so devoid of pride that Swami Ramanuja touched Him after bathing in Kaveri to purify Himself! So, He came to be known as Sri Ramanuja Sparshavedhi, the alchemist who was touched by Swami Ramanuja.

Nonetheless, this act of Swami Ramanujacharya left some Shishyas disappointed. "All said and done, this is against Varnashrama Dharma! He is of the Shudra Varna. Isn’t our Acharya a Brahmanotthama?" they whispered amongst themselves.

The omniscient Swami Ramanuja sensed this dissatisfaction. He took one of His trusted Shishyas into confidence and made a secret plan!

The Shishya went to the place where all Shishyas in the Mutt dried their clothes. He silently tore a very small portion of each garment!

And then, the same Shishya awaited the hour Sri Dhanurdhasar left for work [as the King's bodyguard] in the night. The Shishya crept into Sri Dhanurdasar's house and started taking the gold jewels Srimathi Ponnachiyaar was wearing!!

Srimathi Ponnachiyaar woke up and realized that a Shishya of Swami Ramanuja is stealing Her jewels. She feigned sleep and waited till He removed all jewels that She had been wearing on one side of Her body!!! And then, She acted as though She were turning to Her side in Her sleep so that the Shishya can take the remaining jewels!!!! However, the Shishya panicked and ran away with whatever He had taken.

When Sri Dhanurdhasar came back home & saw His wife, "Why are you wearing jewels on only one side of your body?!" He wondered aloud. Srimathi Ponnaachiyaar narrated what had happened. However, Sri Dhanurdhasar was not pleased with what She had done.

"Had you remained still like an inanimate object, without any sense of ego, the Shishya would have taken all jewels! You acted on your own will! Alas!" He lamented.

Srimathi Ponnaachiyaar asked, "Did you not teach me that we should act according to the wishes of Sri Vaishnavas?"

The Shishya, who had taken the jewels, was secretly listening to this most unusual conversation [as that was His Guru's order]!!

The next day in Swami Ramanujacharya's Matam, the Shishyas saw that a small portion of each of their garments was torn! They uttered very harsh words and cursed each other. Swami Ramanuja was silently watching this.

That afternoon, when giving His usual discourses on Azhwar Pasurams, Swami Ramanuja summoned Sri Dhanurdasar & asked, "Dhanurdasa! Is it true that you & Ponnaachiyaar have had a misunderstanding and that you are not in talking terms with Her?"

Sri Dhanurdasar admitted the truth & narrated the incidents that led to the situation. He said, "O Acharya, she has not given up the sense of 'I' and so, we couldn't serve that Sri Vaishnava. Pray do punish her, O Acharya!"

Swami Ramanujacharya looked at those Shishyas who had created such a commotion for the sake for slightly torn clothes!

"You see? She tries to help a Sri Vaishnava take all her gold jewels & he apologizes for she not staying still till all jewels were taken. Whereas do you all remember the commotion you all had created just because a small portion of your garments was torn?" asked the great Acharya!

The Shishyas realized the exalted nobility of Sri Dhanurdasar and Srimathi Ponnaachiyaar & apologized for their mistake.

And then, Swami Ramanujacharya explained: "They have acquired great Gnanam & Bhakthi towards Sriman Narayana. Therefore, They are above Varna barriers. I might be having some pride due to my Varna but Dhanurdasa has no such pride. So, I purify myself by touching the most pious Dhanurdasa after bathing!"

---

When Sri Dhanurdasar attained Paramapadham, Srimathi Ponnaachiyaar too left for Paramapadham on the very same day [as She could not remain separated from a Parama Bhaagavathaa like Him].

Acharya Sri Parashara Bhattar performed the last rites of the great couple.

---

Sri Shathrughna Padi

Sri Shathrughna Padi

Image Credit: https://in.pinterest.com/pin/11188699061560301/

Srimad Ramayanam is celebrated as the Ithihasa Rathna. Acharyas of Swami Ramanuja Sampradayam have provided spellbinding explanations from seemingly simple facts in this great Ithihasa. One such explanation is the reasoning behind the names of the 4 Sons of Dasharatha Chakravarthy.

The Kula Guru of the Ishavaku race, Sri Vashishta Maharishi, is invited with respect & is requested to name the 4 babies. He names them as raama, lakshmaNa, bharatha & shathrughna.

raama: means 'one who delights everyone' - Needless to say, Sri Rama exhibited highly delightful traits like dutifulness towards parents and elders, righteousness, pleasant speech, dignity, courage & valour, compassion, truthfulness, staggeringly handsome personality, etc.

lakshmaNa: means 'one who has been blessed with the grace of lakshmi' - Now, this child was "blessed with wealth". What wealth? The unique wealth of serving Sri Rama. Wasn't it Sri Lakshmana who:

• accompanied Sri Rama to the forests
• built huts
• plucked flowers
• dug pits
• remained awake on all nights for 14 full years to guard the Divya Dhampathi
• spoke words of encouragement & comfort
• gave wise counsel whenever the need arose
• stood by Sri Rama in times of adversities
• fought with enemies

etc, etc, etc? Thus, He's Kainkarya Srimaan.

bharatha: means 'one who bears the weight' - This child had to "bear the weight". What weight? The weight of ruling the kingdom on behalf of His beloved elder brother Sri Rama. For a mediocre person, this will mean good news. However, Sri Bharatha was so devoted to Sri Rama that the very thought of ruling the kingdom [that belonged to Sri Rama] felt like a huge weight thrust upon Him against His will. Yet He bore both the weight [and the excruciating mental torture thereof, mark you] for Sri Rama.

shathrughna: means 'one who destroys enemies' - What enemies? Didn't the other brothers destroy them? Or aren't they capable of doing so? Well, this child did destroy an enemy that the other brothers cannot & could not destroy. How?

a. Sri Rama showed the path of saamaanya dharma i.e. normal, ordinary dharma that every ideal man has to follow in different dharmic roles - as a son, shishya, king, husband, brother, master, etc..

b. Sri Lakshmana showed the path of vishEsha dharma [special dharma] i.e. place Sri Rama [Bhagawan] on a pedestal higher than His own parents, chose to accompany Him to the forests & begged Sri Rama to take him along - this is called shEshathvam [being a servant of Bhagawan].

c. Sri Bharatha showed the path of vishEshathara dharma [more special dharmam] i.e. give highest priority to Sri Rama's [Bhagawan's] wish instead of His own wish - this is called pArathantharyam [being the servant of Bhagawan & act according to *His

wish, not that of the self].

d. Sri Shathrughna showed the path of vishEshathama dharma [most special dharma] i.e. place the welfare of the Bhaktha of Sri Rama [Sri Bharatha] on a pedestal higher than that of Sri Rama [Bhagawan] Himself.

When everyone, captivated by the amazingly handsome Sri Rama, gave all their attention only to Him, one noble soul alone remained unfazed by those handsome features & showed no interest in anyone other than Sri Bharatha! He did not even ask Sri Rama to come back to Ayodhya. Nor did He request Sri Rama to allow Him to stay in the forest. He simply followed Sri Bharatha & only Sri Bharatha.

This is called bhaagavatha pArathantharyam [being the loyal servant of the Daasaas of Bhagawan]. To reach this exalted state, one must be able to overcome a powerful distraction & that is nothing but the irresistibly handsome features of Sri Rama!

So, this is the unique enemy that Sri Shatrughna destroyed. i.e. He mastered His senses so well that even Bhagawan's magnetic beauty could not disturb Him from serving a Sri Rama Dasa! Also, He served Sri Rama only for Sri Bharatha's joy!

Hence, in Swami Ramanuja Sampradayam, being more devoted to the Acharya than being devoted to Sriman Narayana is celebrated as Sri Shathrughna Padi i.e. the path of Sri Shathrughna. This divine stance is the role model for all Acharya Bhakthas who emerged in the Sampradayam.