31. Welfare of the Kannada Empire
Kalpa Vriksha of Kali Yuga
Fourth Delight
After Saluva Narasimha ascended as the ruler of the Karnataka empire, he sought an audience with his guru, Shri Lakshminarayana Muni. He discussed all matters concerning the empire and requested the guru to remain with him to guide the empire toward welfare and prosperity. Shri Lakshminarayana Muni, acknowledging his old age, declined to stay but promised to send a capable disciple who would guide Narasimha Bhupala effectively. He blessed Narasimha and summoned Shri Vyasaraja from Attoor to Mulbagal to fulfill this responsibility.
It is said by scholars that Shri Vibudhendra later incarnated as Shri Vijayindra Teertha and became a beloved disciple of Shri Vyasaraja.
When Shri Vyasaraja arrived, the guru discussed the difficulties faced by the Kannada empire, the recent political changes, and the requests made by Narasimha Bhupala. The guru instructed Vyasaraja to proceed to the royal court, guide Narasimha Bhupala, and help uplift the state through advice and leadership.
Shri Vyasaraja, hesitant about such a significant undertaking, expressed his doubts: "Guruji, we are ascetics. The royal court and the monastic life are far apart. It seems inappropriate for someone like me to stay in the royal court."
The guru responded, "The duty of spiritual leaders is to inspire the people of the land with religious, spiritual, and moral awareness, spreading principles of philosophy, dharma, Vishnu devotion, and Bhagavata Dharma to foster faith and harmony. For this, peace, stability, and happiness in the state are necessary. A well-administered kingdom provides a solid foundation for its people's spiritual and material prosperity. Scholars play a pivotal role in achieving this, and it is their duty.
"From this perspective, it is essential for you to guide Narasimha Raja as his spiritual advisor. This responsibility falls upon you because of your extraordinary capabilities."
Shri Vyasaraja, still doubtful of his ability to take on such a task, hesitated. Sensing his disciple's hesitation, Shri Lakshminarayana Muni smiled and said, "Beloved disciple, there is no need for doubt. In the world, Saraswati Devi embodies knowledge, Parashurama possesses invincible prowess, Brihaspati demonstrates unparalleled wisdom, the sun radiates astonishing brilliance, the moon delights hearts with its soothing light, and Yajneshwara exudes purity. The mountains display unwavering strength, and the Kalpataru tree represents boundless generosity. Similarly, Lord Vasudeva is the source of infinite greatness. These extraordinary qualities shine within you with the blessings of Shri Hari Vayu.
"I firmly believe you will succeed in this task. Therefore, for the welfare of the Kannada empire, it is imperative that you guide Narasimha Raja. Recall how the great Vidyaranya, despite being a renunciate and scholar, took an active role in establishing the Karnataka empire for the greater good. Just as the rising sun revitalizes withered lotus flowers, you must awaken the people of this land, inspire them, and instill new energy. Above all, you must propagate the Dvaita philosophy, and for that, the royal court is the right place. You alone are capable of accomplishing this."
He further added, "Kings act as bridges for all philosophies and dharmas. It is your duty to remain in the royal court, advise the king, and ensure that he rules the state with dharma, bringing joy and prosperity to his subjects. Do not harbor doubts about this mission. Even in ancient times, sages like Shri Dattatreya, Vasishta, and Vamadeva adorned the courts of kings and worked for the greater good of the world. Similarly, you must guide Narasimha Bhupala, ensure the welfare of the Kannada land, and propagate philosophy and dharma."
Reassured by his guru's counsel, Shri Vyasaraja bowed and promised, "I will carry out your instructions." He then sought his guru's blessings and, accompanied by a few disciples, embarked on his journey to the royal capital of Mahachala (Chandragiri), which was adorned like the moon amidst a constellation of stars, to serve Saluva Narasimha Bhupala.