The Fifth Delight
Shri Raghavendra Gurusarvabhauma
48. Under the Shelter of Shri Sudheendra Tirtha
At the Vidya Matha, Shri Sudheendra Tirtha Swamiji was engaged in teaching when Venkatanatha and his family arrived. Humbly, the couple prostrated before the Guru. Upon seeing them, Sudheendra Tirtha’s face lit up with joy.
"Welcome, Acharya! You are most welcome!" he said with warmth.
Venkatanatha then conveyed the instructions he had received from Ramachandra Acharya.
"I have come with my family to seek refuge at your holy feet, Swamiji. Please bestow your grace upon this humble disciple."
Sudheendra Tirtha, smiling, reassured him.
"Acharya, this great institution belongs to you! Let us discuss other matters at leisure."
Calling for Narasimha Acharya, he instructed:
"Narasimha, until proper accommodation is arranged for Venkatanatha and his family, their well-being is your responsibility."
Narasimha Acharya humbly accepted the order, ensured that the family was comfortably settled, and arranged all necessary amenities for their stay.
The arrival of Venkatanatha brought immense joy to Shri Sudheendra Tirtha. He was pleased to finally fulfill the command of the revered Shri Vijayeendra Guru by bringing such a worthy disciple under his guidance. The Guru ensured that Venkatanatha and his family were provided with a spacious house and all necessary comforts to sustain their household. With the Guru’s blessings, all concerns regarding food and shelter were alleviated, allowing the Acharya to focus on his studies without worry.
Saraswathamma, overjoyed, devoted herself wholeheartedly to serving her husband, nurturing their young son, and running the household with contentment.
Thus, in Kumbakonam—the pride of Chola Mandala—Venkatanatha flourished under the patronage of Shri Sudheendra Guru. Immersed in the study of various sacred scriptures, he gained immense knowledge and earned the high regard of his Guru.