Kalpa Vriksha of Kali Yuga

Fourth Delight

Sri Vyasa Raja Yati Sarvabhouma

44. Krishnadevaraya Becomes the Kannada Emperor!

At dusk, Shri Vyasaraja, seated in the sanctified "Vishwapavana" Matha, was blessing devotees who had come for his audience. After concluding his discourses, he was about to prepare for the evening rituals when the administrators informed him, "Swami, the Prime Minister Timmarasu seeks your audience." The Guru smiled and instructed them to respectfully bring Timmarasu to the private chamber.

Upon entering, the visibly distressed Timmarasu bowed to the Guru and took the seat offered. Vyasaraja observed his expression and said with a smile, "O Mahamatya, it seems Krishna has captured your mind. Is it not so?"

Startled, Timmarasu responded, "Revered Guru, nothing escapes your knowledge. I am caught in a dilemma and have come seeking your guidance." Vyasaraja replied, "Ah, I see! It is the matter of Krishna's well-being that troubles you. Speak without hesitation."

Timmarasu sighed and explained, "O Gurudeva, I know your immense affection and grace toward Krishna Deva Raya. Our emperor, Veera Narasimha Raya, is gravely ill and bedridden. A few days ago, he summoned me in private and expressed his desire to see his son succeed the throne after his passing. However, he views Krishna Deva Raya as a threat to this ambition. He insists that Krishna be eliminated, or at the very least blinded, to secure his son's path to the throne. He has ordered me to carry out this heinous act, promising that my loyalty to him would ensure his son's ascension. This has left me utterly tormented, unable to see a way forward. I seek your wisdom, O Guru."

Hearing this, Vyasaraja was momentarily stunned, but then spoke with calm assurance: "Mahamatya, Veera Narasimha's desires are indeed misguided. But do not despair. Dharma and truth shall prevail. You did well to ask for time to reflect. Let Krishna remain in seclusion for now. All will resolve favorably."

Timmarasu responded anxiously, "But Guru, Krishna Deva Raya did not appear at the council today. I fear for his safety." Vyasaraja reassured him, saying, "Krishna is safe. This morning, I had him brought here and sent to your residence under the protection of a trusted scholar. Let him remain hidden until the situation resolves."

Relieved, Timmarasu praised the Guru’s foresight and compassion, declaring, "O Swami, your wisdom and affection toward Krishna are unparalleled. Please guide me further on my duties."

Vyasaraja advised him, "Mahamatya, assure the emperor of your loyalty and promise to fulfill his wishes. Meanwhile, ensure Krishna's safety. Lord Hari will guide us toward a righteous resolution."

Timmarasu’s Deception and the Passing of Veera Narasimha

The following day, Timmarasu met with the emperor and pledged to carry out his orders. He falsely reported to Veera Narasimha that Krishna Deva Raya had been blinded and presented the emperor with goat eyes as proof. Satisfied, the emperor entrusted Timmarasu with securing his son’s ascension before passing away shortly thereafter.

The emperor’s death and Krishna Deva Raya’s disappearance caused widespread unrest. The people speculated about political conspiracies and mourned the supposed demise of Krishna Deva Raya, who was beloved for his valor, wisdom, and compassion.

The Reappearance of Krishna Deva Raya

After Veera Narasimha’s funeral rites, Timmarasu convened a council to discuss the next ruler. During deliberations, he revealed that Krishna Deva Raya was alive and promised to bring him to the assembly within three days. This announcement shocked and delighted the council members, who unanimously expressed their desire to see Krishna Deva Raya ascend the throne.

On the appointed day, Krishna Deva Raya entered the assembly, guided by Vyasaraja. The gathering erupted in joy, proclaiming, "Long live Emperor Krishna Deva Raya!"

Coronation of Krishna Deva Raya

In a grand ceremony, Vyasaraja placed a jewel-encrusted crown on Krishna Deva Raya’s head and handed him the royal sword, declaring him the sovereign ruler of the Kannada Empire. The assembly resounded with celebratory music, chants, and gun salutes. Gifts poured in from local rulers, nobles, and foreign dignitaries, symbolizing their allegiance. The city of Vijayanagara erupted in festivities, with a month-long celebration of Krishna Deva Raya's coronation.

The Golden Era Begins

Under Vyasaraja’s guidance, Krishna Deva Raya embarked on a mission to uplift the Kannada Empire. His reign was marked by unparalleled prosperity, cultural renaissance, and military conquests. His virtues included devotion to God and Guru, generosity toward scholars and artists, respect for women, and a commitment to justice and dharma.

Krishna Deva Raya's ascension heralded the beginning of Vijayanagara's golden age, fulfilling Vyasaraja’s prophetic vision of a resplendent empire, enriched by art, culture, and spiritual wisdom.