Kalpa Vriksha of Kali Yuga
Fourth Delight
Sri Vyasa Raja Yati Sarvabhouma
39. Resolution of the Dispute at Srirangam
Srirangam is one of the most revered holy sites in South India. Historically, it was part of the Kannada Empire and later came under the rule of the Madurai Nayakas after the fall of Vijayanagara. Located in modern-day Tamil Nadu, the sacred Kaveri River flows through this region, splitting into two branches near Srirangam and reuniting after encircling the island that houses Lord Ranganatha. This unique geographical feature makes the site sacred, with Lord Ranganatha being as revered among devotees as Lord Venkateshwara of Tirupati.
Srirangam is predominantly a Vaishnavite pilgrimage center, with its temple adorned by numerous prakaras (enclosures) and gopuras (towers), captivating devotees with its architectural beauty. About four miles from Srirangam lies Jambukeshwara, an ancient Shaivite temple where Lord Rudra presides, and the area is predominantly Shaivite in character.
Historically, both communities—Vaishnavites and Shaivites—lived harmoniously in this region, pursuing their spiritual practices in peace. However, due to the machinations of troublemakers, disputes and animosity arose between the two groups. These conflicts escalated to the point of physical altercations, arson, and general unrest, creating a climate of fear and instability in the region. Vaishnavites disrupted Shaivite festivals, and Shaivites retaliated during Vaishnavite celebrations.
At the heart of the dispute lay the territorial claims over Srirangam and Jambukeshwara. The Shaivites argued that Jambukeshwara, being ancient, had jurisdiction over the area, including Srirangam, claiming it was their rightful territory. In contrast, the Vaishnavites insisted that Srirangam had always been a Vishnu-dominated site, dismissing Shaivite claims as unfounded.
The conflict grew so severe that it spread across the Kannada Empire, polarizing various communities. This posed a grave threat to the unity and peace of the empire, which was known for its inclusive and tolerant approach to different religions and beliefs. Recognizing the critical nature of the situation, Emperor Narasanayaka, accompanied by his ministers and royal guru, Shri Vyasaraja, decided to intervene to restore peace and resolve the conflict.
Intervention by Shri Vyasaraja
Upon arriving in Srirangam, Tuluva Narasanayaka summoned representatives from both temples—Vaishnavite and Shaivite priests, administrators, and community leaders—to discuss the issues. Despite extensive discussions, no resolution was reached. Narasanayaka then brought both parties to meet Shri Vyasaraja and Emperor Tammaraya, appealing for a fair and amicable solution.
Shri Vyasaraja patiently listened to the grievances of both sides. Addressing the gathering, he said:
"Devotees of Dharma, your concerns are understood. The root of this dispute lies in the territorial boundaries of Srirangam and Jambukeshwara. This is not a matter of theological differences but of local jurisdiction. Such issues can and should be resolved through mutual cooperation and understanding. The Emperor himself has traveled here to ensure peace in this region. At this moment, I wish to remind all of you of the sacred heritage of Bharat, a land of dharma since time immemorial.
"Our land is a beacon of spiritual knowledge, where diverse paths, philosophies, and beliefs have coexisted harmoniously. Despite differences, our forefathers lived with mutual respect, ensuring India's reputation as a land of tolerance and unity. Today, it pains me to see children of this sacred land fighting over boundaries.
"Recall the times when internal strife led to foreign invasions, desecrating our temples and disrupting our way of life. Let us not allow history to repeat itself. I urge you to set aside your differences and embrace unity, cooperation, and the spirit of brotherhood. Only through harmony can we safeguard the sanctity of our temples and the integrity of our empire."
Shri Vyasaraja’s words deeply impacted the audience, prompting them to reconsider their stance. Although both parties expressed a willingness to resolve the conflict, neither wanted to concede outright. They sought a solution that would be fair and acceptable to all.
The Solution
Representatives from both sides proposed a unique method to demarcate the boundary: one person would hold their breath and run from the flagpole of one temple until they needed to exhale. The spot where they stopped would mark the boundary.
Hearing this, Shri Vyasaraja smiled and said, "If you trust us, I am willing to undertake this task myself to resolve the dispute."
The gathering, moved by Shri Vyasaraja’s selflessness, agreed unanimously. With blessings from both communities, Shri Vyasaraja began the task. Starting from the flagpole of the Srirangam temple, he ran while holding his breath, followed by impartial observers. After running three miles, he stopped under a tree, exhaled, and declared:
"From this spot onward, the territory belongs to Jambukeshwara. The area behind this point is under the jurisdiction of Srirangam."
The decision was accepted with gratitude and reverence by both sides. Shri Vyasaraja urged the communities to maintain harmony and unity, emphasizing their shared spiritual heritage.
Establishing Boundaries and Legacy
As a mark of the resolution, Shri Vyasaraja installed a deity named Shri Prana Deva at the spot where he stopped, symbolizing the boundary between the two regions. He also oversaw the construction of a temple and a matha (monastery) within the Srirangam temple premises, ensuring that proper rituals and worship practices were established for generations to follow.
The resolution brought peace and harmony to the region, restoring the sanctity of Srirangam and Jambukeshwara. The Emperor and Narasanayaka expressed their profound gratitude to Shri Vyasaraja for his wisdom and leadership. The people of the empire lauded him as a protector of dharma and a unifier of communities.
Shri Vyasaraja’s efforts not only resolved the dispute but also strengthened the spiritual and social fabric of the Kannada Empire, earning him enduring respect and reverence.