Kalpa Vriksha of Kali Yuga
Fourth Delight
Sri Vyasa Raja Yati Sarvabhouma
40. Great victory for Vijayanagara
One day, while Shri Vyasaraja was imparting spiritual teachings to Immadi Narasimha Raya, ministers such as Saluva Timmarasu and close associates of Narasanayaka arrived from Vijayanagara. After offering their respects to the Guru and the Emperor, they presented a message from Narasanayaka. The letter conveyed a heartfelt request for Shri Vyasaraja to grace Vijayanagara with his presence, provide spiritual guidance, and assist in the overall development of the empire.
Despite Immadi Narasimha Raya’s reluctance to part with his Guru, whom he regarded as the foundation of his spiritual and administrative well-being, he agreed to the request. He believed Shri Vyasaraja's presence in Vijayanagara would greatly benefit the empire. Bowing to the wishes of Narasanayaka and the empire, the emperor said:
"Guruji, I humbly request you to proceed to Vijayanagara and guide Narasanayaka for the prosperity of our land and my own spiritual upliftment."
Shri Vyasaraja agreed and assured the ministers:
"Everything is as per Lord Hari's will. Inform Narasanayaka that I will soon visit Vijayanagara."
The Arrival at Vijayanagara
On the day of Shri Vyasaraja’s arrival, the city of Vijayanagara was adorned with unparalleled grandeur. Streets were cleaned and decorated with colorful rangolis, green festoons, floral arches, and flags. Magnificent pavilions were erected, and the city brimmed with excitement. Citizens thronged the streets, eagerly awaiting the arrival of the revered Guru.
Narasanayaka, adorned in royal splendor and riding an ornamented horse, led a grand procession of ministers, soldiers, and dignitaries to receive the Guru. The procession included decorated elephants, camels, and horse-mounted guards. Musicians played various instruments, and Vedic chants filled the air. The city was alive with the sound of conch shells, drums, and other traditional instruments.
Shri Vyasaraja approached in a golden palanquin, holding a scripture in his hands and surrounded by his disciples. His divine aura captivated all who beheld him. Dressed in saffron robes and adorned with the sacred marks of a Vaishnavite, Shri Vyasaraja’s serene face radiated wisdom and compassion.
Narasanayaka, overwhelmed with devotion, dismounted from his horse and ran to receive the Guru. Prostrating before him, the emperor’s minister offered his respects and led the Guru into the city with great reverence.
The Procession Through the City
The streets of Vijayanagara resounded with chants of “Victory to Shri Vyasaraja!” Women showered flowers from balconies, and priests performed rituals to welcome the Guru. Citizens, standing on rooftops and along the streets, eagerly sought a glimpse of the saint. The entire city celebrated his arrival, exclaiming with joy and reverence at his divine presence.
Shri Vyasaraja’s palanquin was brought to a grand palace prepared for his stay. The palace, adorned with crystal staircases, golden floors, and columns studded with gemstones, reflected the opulence of the Vijayanagara Empire. Narasanayaka personally assisted the Guru into the palace and seated him on a golden throne.
Honoring Shri Vyasaraja in the Royal Court
The following day, Narasanayaka invited Shri Vyasaraja to the royal court. Amidst a packed assembly of ministers, generals, scholars, and citizens, the emperor and his court welcomed the Guru with great pomp. Shri Vyasaraja was seated on a jeweled throne, and Narasanayaka, along with the assembled dignitaries, offered gifts of gold, jewels, and other treasures.
As the royal assembly chanted his praises, Shri Vyasaraja blessed everyone and offered guidance for the prosperity of the empire. He counseled Narasanayaka:
"Lead your administration with righteousness and justice, ensuring the welfare of all. Remain devoted to Lord Hari and seek the Guru’s blessings in all your endeavors. Work for the prosperity of the Kannada Empire with the support of your ministers, generals, and citizens."
Narasanayaka, humbled by the Guru's wisdom, expressed his gratitude with folded hands. He vowed to uphold the teachings of Shri Vyasaraja and administer the empire with diligence and devotion.
Spiritual Impact of Shri Vyasaraja
Shri Vyasaraja’s presence in Vijayanagara ushered in a golden age of spiritual and cultural flourishing. He provided spiritual guidance to the royal court, inspired the citizens with his teachings, and ensured that governance was rooted in dharma. His influence extended beyond the empire’s borders, solidifying Vijayanagara's reputation as a beacon of Hindu culture and spirituality.
Through his unwavering devotion to Lord Hari and his unparalleled wisdom, Shri Vyasaraja became a guiding light for the Vijayanagara Empire. His arrival marked a new chapter in the empire’s history, characterized by harmony, prosperity, and spiritual resurgence.