The Fifth Delight
Shri Raghavendra Gurusarvabhauma
15. The Marriage of Timmanna Acharya
Vijayindra Tirtha, recognizing that Timmanna Acharya had reached a suitable age for marriage, decided it was his duty to arrange the marriage soon to ensure Timmanna’s life progressed smoothly. Around the same time, he learned about Saubhagyavati Gopikamba Devi, the eldest daughter of Anandatirtha Acharya, who belonged to the same Shashthika lineage and Bharadwaja gotra. Vijayindra determined that she would be an ideal match for Timmanna.
Gopikamba Devi was a woman of exceptional qualities, blessed with beauty, noble character, and a keen appreciation for literature, drama, music, and the arts. Vijayindra consulted with his guru, Surendra Tirtha, about the proposal. Overjoyed, Surendra Tirtha directed that the marriage be conducted without delay.
Vijayindra Tirtha then called Anandatirtha Acharya and shared his thoughts. Anandatirtha, delighted at the prospect of Timmanna Acharya—a brilliant scholar, a beacon of wisdom, and a beloved disciple of the Gurus—becoming his son-in-law, gave his enthusiastic consent. Both Gurus then informed Timmanna Acharya of the proposal with great affection. Ever obedient to his Gurus, Timmanna humbly responded, “As per the will of my Gurus,” and conveyed his agreement.
In the year 1574 CE, the grand wedding of Timmanna Acharya and Gopikamba Devi was celebrated with great splendor.
Gopikamba Devi proved to be a perfectly compatible life partner for Timmanna. She was respectful toward elders, adorned with virtues, and deeply understanding of her husband’s needs and happiness. She became a beloved wife, likened to the Smriti scriptures for the Vedas, Padmavati for Lord Surya, Arundhati for Sage Vasishtha, and Kumudvati for the Moon. Her devotion, love, and unwavering support made her shine as an ideal companion.
Timmanna Acharya, overjoyed by Gopikamba Devi’s noble qualities, dedication, and love, lived a content and joyful married life, fulfilling the responsibilities of grihastha dharma (householder duties) with her.