The Fifth Delight
Shri Raghavendra Gurusarvabhauma
26 Venkatamba's Marriage - Gururaja's Upanayana
In the illustrious lineage of the renowned Pashika dynasty, originating from the Kashyapa Gotra, many distinguished individuals gained fame. Numerous relatives of the great Sri Vyasatirtha achieved prominence, finding patronage in various royal courts across South India. Among such notable families, Sri Vyasatirtha, Sri Surendra, Sri Vijayendra, and Sri Sudheendra belonged to the Kashyapa lineage. In this lineage, a respected individual named Timmanna Acharya was the ruler of the village "Dankipura."
According to legend, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Vamana in response to the penance of Kashyapa and Aditi, following the prayers of the Devas, to ensure the protection of Indra and the divine realms. Born into this sacred Kashyapa lineage, Timmanna Acharya was a revered scholar in Vedas, Vedangas, and Vedanta. Recognized for his devotion and knowledge, the Pandya king of Madurai honored him by appointing him as the chief of Dankipura. People respectfully addressed him as “Timmanna Dhannayaka.”
In this lineage, a prominent figure named Timmarasu arose, known for his erudition, valor, and leadership. His skills and reputation earned him recognition from the Pandya kings, who granted him the renowned region of "Nari Sarassu" as a jagir. Residing there, Timmarasu became known for his charity and righteousness. Distinguished by his scholarly achievements, military prowess, and unwavering dedication to dharma, Timmarasu commanded great respect. His title, "Timmarasu," became synonymous with honor and prestige.
Timmanna Acharya (Timmarasu), revered as a benefactor and a leader, was blessed by divine grace with two sons. The elder, Vasudevacharya (also known as Sheshashayi Acharya), was known for his exemplary qualities, while the younger son, Venkatasudhi, was born much later. After their father’s demise, the elder son Vasudevacharya entrusted the management of Nari Sarassu to his younger brother, Venkatasudhi, and took residence in the Pandya capital of Madurai.
Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Acharya, a scholar renowned for his expertise in defeating opponents in debates, an abode of the Goddess of Knowledge, and a reservoir of unparalleled virtues, was born to Vasudevacharya (Sheshashayi). Recognizing his extraordinary qualities, Vasudevacharya performed his son's upanayana (sacred thread ceremony) and facilitated his study of all scriptures.
As Lakshmi Narasimha Acharya entered his youth, his charm, gentle nature, and profound knowledge made him a radiant personality. Wishing to arrange a suitable marriage for their son, Vasudevacharya and his family traveled to Ramachandrapura, where Timmanna Acharya and his wife were similarly eager to find a suitable match for their daughter.
Staying at an acquaintance’s house, Vasudevacharya initiated the proposal through intermediaries and then visited Timmanna Acharya’s home to formally seek their daughter’s hand for his son. Timmanna Acharya and his wife, recognizing Lakshmi Narasimha Acharya’s exceptional appearance, education, and virtues, determined he was an ideal match for their daughter.
When Vasudevacharya and his wife met Venkatamba Devi, a talented young woman with expertise in music, literature, and fine arts, alongside her graceful beauty and virtuous character, they were filled with immense joy and wholeheartedly approved the match.
Grateful for such an auspicious alliance, granted by the blessings of Sri Hari, Vayu, and Guru, Timmanna Acharya resolved to conduct both his daughter’s wedding and Gururaja’s upanayana (sacred thread ceremony) with grandeur. Meticulously planning the events, they celebrated both occasions with great pomp on an auspicious day.
Timmanna Acharya and his wife organized Venkatamba Devi’s wedding splendidly, gifting their son-in-law and daughter numerous presents, including jewelry, gold, and fine clothing. They showered Vasudevacharya’s family and other relatives with warm hospitality and gifts, leaving everyone delighted and content.