Fourth Delight
Sri Vyasa Raja Yati Sarvabhouma
57. The Conclusion of an Avatar
When the news of Sri Vyasaraja’s frail health reached Sri Vijayindra Tirtha, who was on a Digvijaya Yatra (victorious tour of debate and scholarship), through a scholar from Vijayanagara, he was deeply concerned. The revered Sri Surendra Tirtha, a prominent ascetic, also learned of this and was greatly distressed. He called his dear disciple, Sri Vijayindra, and said:
"Beloved disciple, during this time when our venerable elder is experiencing physical weakness, it is imperative for you to be near him and serve him. He has been the source of all your achievements and takes great joy and pride in hearing of your glory and success. It is your duty to assist and be blessed by him. You must depart for Vijayanagara tomorrow. Convey to the revered Sri Vyasa Yogiendra that we are praying for his health and well-being before Sri Mula Raghupati and Veda Vyasa Deva, who are our eternal support.”
Hearing his Guru’s words, Sri Vijayindra, overjoyed at the permission to have darshan of Sri Vyasaraja, humbly replied, "I will act according to the Guru’s command."
The next day, with a small entourage and minimal belongings, Sri Vijayindra Tirtha set out for Vijayanagara. On Phalguna Krishna Pratipada of the Vilambi Samvatsara, he arrived at the Sri Vishwapavana Matha in Vijayanagara.
When Sri Vyasa Munindra learned of Sri Vijayindra’s arrival, his joy knew no bounds. The thought of his beloved disciple coming filled him with immense enthusiasm and happiness. The entire Matha was abuzz with excitement. At the grand entrance, the entire assembly of monks, led by Sri Srinivasa Tirtha, along with the officials, scholars, and disciples, prepared to welcome Sri Vijayindra with poorṇakumbha (a ceremonial pot of welcome) and the full honors of the Matha.
As Sri Vijayindra entered, Sri Vyasaraja, unable to contain his excitement, rushed past the grand entrance toward his dear disciple and embraced him with great affection. Sri Vijayindra prostrated with full devotion at the Guru’s feet. Overwhelmed with emotion, both Guru and disciple wept tears of joy.
Sri Vyasaraja then lifted Sri Vijayindra up, held his hand, and led him to the main assembly hall. The gathered crowd, witnessing this profound bond of Guru's love and disciple's devotion, praised them, declaring:
"There are none who can match the Guru’s affection and the disciple’s devotion like Sri Vyasaraja and Sri Vijayindra!"
The hall resounded with cheers and chants in praise of the two spiritual luminaries.
That evening, after the lamp worship and while at rest, Sri Vyasaraja called Sri Vijayindra to a private audience. He inquired about his disciple’s well-being and achievements, listening with joy, and shared details about his own health. He said,
"Dear disciple, for a long time, I have been yearning to call you and share some important matters. Your arrival brings me immense happiness. I believe that it is Sri Hari and Vayu who have brought you here to fulfill my wishes."
Sri Vijayindra replied, "Gurudeva, it is my great fortune to have the opportunity to serve you. For many years, I had longed to have your darshan and serve you for some time. That wish has now been fulfilled, and I feel blessed."
Smiling gently, Sri Vyasaraja said, "Beloved Vijayindra, you will not be able to serve us physically for much longer. We had been waiting for you. Now that you are here, our wish is fulfilled. There are some instructions I wish to give you. Fulfilling them will be the greatest service you can render to us."
Hearing this, Sri Vijayindra was overcome with concern and asked, "Gurudeva, why are you saying this? Your words fill me with fear and anxiety."
Sri Vyasaraja, with a faint smile, reassured him, "There is no need for fear or anxiety. None can defy the divine will of the Lord. Our time in this world is nearing its end. Sri Hari and Vayu have completed the purpose of this avatar, and the call from Sri Hari has come. You are wise and courageous. Do not grieve our departure. Let this matter remain confidential. On the day of Tritiya, we will entrust the Mahasansthan to our dear disciple, Sri Srinivasa Tirtha, and on Chaturthi, we will leave this world while absorbed in meditation on Sri Narayana. You must now give me a promise."
Hearing these words, Sri Vijayindra was filled with immense sorrow. The thought of losing the opportunity to serve his Guru weighed heavily on his heart. Tears began to flow from his eyes, and with a trembling voice, he clasped the Guru’s feet and said,
"Gurudeva, will you leave us as orphans? Who will guide us in the future?..."
He could not continue, his grief choking his voice.
Sri Vyasaraja (with a gentle smile) said, "Dear Vijayindra, when Sri Mula Rama, the Lord of the universe, is your protector, how can you ever be orphaned? You have the complete blessings of Srimadacharya and Tikakritpada, as well as our blessings and those of Sri Surendra Tirtha. Your Guru, a wise guide, will always show you the path. Now, you must give me your word to fulfill three of my requests.
First, after my time, you must strengthen the Dvaita philosophy through debates, writing, teaching, and spreading its triumph across all opposing schools of thought. Proclaim the victory of Dvaita and protect and promote the teachings of Sri Sadaishnava Siddhanta. You are the only one capable of this task.
Second, you must establish a great center of learning at Kumbakonam, making it a model institution of knowledge for the entire world. Let it serve as an eternal beacon of wisdom and learning.
Third, you must ensure the uninterrupted continuation of our Mahasansthan. Stand as an elder brother and guide to our Sri Srinivasa Tirtha, supporting him in all matters. Foster harmony, love, and trust between the two great institutions of Srimadacharya. Work tirelessly for the comprehensive development of Dvaita philosophy and become a beloved servant of Sri Hari and Vayu by promoting righteousness and showing the right path to the world."
Hearing the immense responsibilities placed upon him, Sri Vijayindra was overwhelmed with emotion and reverence. He responded, "Gurudeva, do I possess the strength for such monumental tasks? Am I truly worthy of such blessings? You must always remain my guiding force and grant me the strength and blessings to fulfill these great missions. I will carry out the duties you have entrusted to me as though you are witnessing them yourself." Saying this, he clasped the Guru's feet and bowed in humility.
Sri Vyasaraja, filled with affection, embraced Vijayindra and placed his divine hand on his head, saying, "After my time, all the progress and flourishing of Dvaita philosophy will come through you, with the blessings of Sri Hari and Vayu. You have our heartfelt blessings."
At that moment, Sri Vijayindra felt an extraordinary surge of divine energy coursing through his body and nerves. Filled with overwhelming joy, he prostrated before his Guru and said, "I am blessed, Gurudeva, and fulfilled. I will dedicate myself completely to accomplishing the responsibilities you have entrusted to me."
Afterward, Sri Vyasaraja summoned his beloved nephew from his pre-monastic days, Sri Srinivasa Tirtha, who was also the designated successor to the Mahasansthan. He offered him extensive guidance, instructing him to consult and act upon the counsel of Sri Vijayindra, live in harmony as brothers, and work together to uphold and enhance the glory and prestige of the two great institutions of Srimadacharya. He also mentioned that further details would be provided by Sri Vijayindra and gave him his blessings. Sri Srinivasa Tirtha humbly accepted, saying, "Your command is supreme."
The next day, Purandara Dasa, who had been on a pilgrimage, returned. This brought immense joy to Sri Vyasaraja, who said with a smile, "Dasarayaru, we were worried about whether you would return in time. Your arrival brings us great happiness."
However, Purandara Dasa appeared deeply troubled. Observing this, Sri Vyasaraja asked, "Why, Dasarayaru, do you seem so distressed?" With a heavy sigh, Dasa replied, "Who can oppose the divine will? It pains me deeply to know that I will not have the fortune of seeing your divine feet, conversing with you, or receiving your teachings for much longer, Gurudeva. I cut short the remainder of my pilgrimage and rushed back just to see you."
Sri Vyasaraja, smiling gently, said, "How could you, a wise soul and knower of all, feel this way, Dasa? There is no alternative to the divine will, is there?" He then explained to Purandara Dasa his experiences, the commands of Sri Krishna, the arrival of Sri Vijayindra, the responsibilities entrusted to him, and the plans to entrust the Mahasansthan to Sri Srinivasa Tirtha on the third day. He instructed Purandara Dasa to continue serving Sri Hari and Vayu as a support for these developments.
Overcome with emotion, Purandara Dasa clasped the Guru's feet, wept, and said, "This is all the benefit I could ask for in this life. I will follow your commands in every way."
Sri Vyasaraja then shared his intentions with the scholars, disciples, close associates, officials of the Matha, and Emperor Achyuta Devaraya. He instructed them to complete all arrangements for transferring the Mahasansthan to Sri Srinivasa Tirtha.
On the Tritiya of Phalguna Bahula in the Vilambi Samvatsara, the Sri Lokapavana Matha was abuzz with grand celebrations. Thousands of people, including citizens of the capital, devotees, scholars, political leaders, Emperor Achyuta Devaraya, and his son-in-law Ramaraja, gathered for the event. Mangala instruments played, and scholars chanted Vedic hymns.
Sri Srinivasa Tirtha was seated on a magnificent golden throne placed on an expansive platform. With assistance from Sri Vijayindra, other close disciples, and associates, Sri Vyasaraja performed the grand coronation. He entrusted the leadership of Srimadacharya's Mahasansthan, the position of Royal Guru, and the chancellorship of the Vijayanagara Sanskrit University to Sri Srinivasa Tirtha, blessing him with all the honors and responsibilities.
Afterward, Sri Vyasaraja instructed Emperor Achyuta Devaraya and Ramaraya to show the same devotion and support to the new Jagadguru, Sri Srinivasa Tirtha, as they had shown to him, ensuring the successful continuation of the Mahasansthan. Bowing before Sri Srinivasa Tirtha, Achyuta Raya and Ramaraya pledged to act in accordance with the instructions of the new Rajaguru and presented royal honors and offerings.
Scholars, disciples, and devotees also offered their respects and gifts to Sri Srinivasa Tirtha, who blessed them all with phalamantrakshata (sacred rice and blessings). The grand event concluded with great splendor.
That evening, after the lamp worship, Sri Vyasaraja, Sri Vijayindra, and Sri Srinivasa Tirtha delivered discourses and blessed the gathering with phalamantrakshata. Once the assembly dispersed, Sri Vyasaraja sent Sri Vijayindra and Sri Srinivasa Tirtha to rest. He then sat with hundreds of devoted disciples, followers, and patrons, engaging in discussions about Lord Krishna's divine glory.
Later, he called Sri Purandara Dasa and said, "Tonight, let there be a continuous session of your bhajans. Let us spend the night awake in devotion." Following the Guru's command, Purandara Dasa began singing bhajans, while Sri Vyasaraja occasionally joined in, singing praises of Lord Hari. The entire night was spent in devotion and contemplation.
On Phalguna Krishna Chaturthi in the Vilambi Samvatsara (March 1539 CE), at the break of dawn (around 4 AM), Sri Vyasaraja completed his morning rituals of bathing, chanting, and meditation. He sat on his seat, radiating divine peace. Sri Purandara Dasa, leading disciples, and hundreds of devotees gathered to offer their respects and sat before him.
Purandara Dasa appeared grief-stricken, folding his hands and sitting silently, with tears streaming down his face. In contrast, Sri Vyasaraja was filled with bliss and radiated an extraordinary divine glow. With a gentle smile, the Guru began delivering a final discourse to his devoted disciples, glorifying the incomprehensible and miraculous greatness of Lord Hari.
As if a river of divine wisdom was flowing from his words, Sri Vyasaraja's teachings overwhelmed the gathered devotees with devotion and reverence. Everyone listened intently, absorbed in the profound spiritual insights. When the discourse concluded, the Guru blessed the assembly, praying for Lord Hari to bestow well-being and prosperity upon all.
Sri Vyasaraja then called Purandara Dasa close, spoke with him briefly, and entrusted him with a sacred tulasi bead necklace. Holding the necklace in his hand, he entered a meditative state, chanting the Lord's name. Purandara Dasa, completely focused, sat gazing at the radiant face of his Guru.
After some time, Sri Vyasaraja opened his eyes, looked around once more, and smiled. With a serene countenance, he offered a silent prayer to Lord Hari in his heart.
“O Supreme Cause of the Universe, Consort of Lakshmi, Protector of Devotees, Remover of all inauspiciousness, O Purushottama, Sri Krishna! In accordance with your divine will, I now conclude this avatar to prepare for the special service you desire of me in the future. O Lord, Murali Mohana, Sri Mula Gopala Krishna, as I conclude this sacred journey, my heart longs for the divine vision of your transcendent and beautiful lotus feet. O Master, whose feet are worshipped by beings across the fourteen worlds, liberator of your devotees from the bondage of samsara, grant me the vision of your eternal lotus feet, the bestower of moksha and supreme bliss.”
With these heartfelt words, Sri Vyasaraja recited the following Bhagavata shloka as if it emerged naturally from his lips:
"San̄chitayēdbhagavataścaraṇāravinda
Vajrāṅkuśa dhvaja sarōruhalāñchanaadyam |
Uttūṅgarakta vilasannakha cakravāla-
Jyōtsābhirāhṛtamahaṁ hṛdayāndhakāram ||"
May I meditate on the lotus feet of the Supreme Lord, marked with symbols like the thunderbolt, goad, flag, and lotus. Those feet, with their tall, radiant red nails shining like circular halos, dispel the immense darkness of ignorance in my heart with their effulgent light."
At that moment, a divine radiance appeared in the room. Everyone present was filled with awe and astonishment, unable to comprehend the source of the effulgence. To their eyes, it appeared as a resplendent light, but nothing more.
However, within the glorious light before Sri Vyasaraja, only he could behold the beautiful and transcendent lotus feet of Sri Balakrishna, the Supreme Lord of countless universes. These feet, crimson like lotus petals, adorned with jeweled anklets, golden bells, and resplendent toe rings encrusted with navaratnas (nine precious gems), exuded an unparalleled beauty. These divine feet, venerated by Brahma, Rudra, Indra, other celestial beings, and all seekers of liberation, appeared exclusively to Sri Vyasaraja’s vision.
Overcome with emotion, Sri Vyasaraja experienced divine ecstasy. His voice trembled with devotion, and tears of joy streamed from his eyes. In deep reverence, he said:
"O Lord, Master, Supreme Being! I am truly blessed. Infinite salutations to your sacred lotus feet, which have graced this humble servant’s request. Following your command, I now conclude this avatar by touching your divine feet and finding fulfillment. O Ocean of Compassion, shower your mercy on this servant! Victory, victory to Sri Mula Gopala Krishna!"
With these words, Sri Vyasaraja leaned forward, clasped Sri Krishna’s lotus feet in his hands, and reverently placed his head upon them. With this final act, he brought his avatar to a close and entered a meditative state of contemplation on Sri Narayana.
Sri Purandara Dasa, a witness to this divine event, stood entranced, overwhelmed by what he had seen. The hundreds of devotees, scholars, and followers present in the assembly watched in awe as Sri Vyasaraja bent forward, extended his hands, placed his head on his hands, and became motionless. They wondered why their Guru remained in this posture, unaware that at that very moment, with the touch of Sri Krishna’s lotus feet, Sri Vyasaraja had completed his earthly mission and merged into the divine presence of Sri Hari.
The devotees remained unaware that, through the power of yoga, Sri Vyasaraja had brought his avatar to its glorious conclusion. Only later did they realize the profound nature of what had transpired before their eyes.
Suddenly, Sri Purandara Dasa stood up, looked toward the sky, and exclaimed, “Gurusarvabhauma! O Master! Have you left us orphaned and turned your focus toward Sri Hari’s assembly? Gurudeva, who will guide us now?” Overwhelmed with grief, he wept profusely while recalling the virtues of his Guru and began lamenting.
Hearing Dasa’s words, the gathered crowd was struck with the weight of the realization, as if hit by a thunderbolt. They cried out, “What? Gurusarvabhauma has departed on his divine journey? Alas, what a profound scholar, who left his body through yogic power and reached Mukunda’s lotus feet without us realizing it! Will we ever see such a Guru again? How unfortunate are we!” They were inconsolable in their sorrow.
As Sri Purandara Dasa continued gazing toward the heavens, he witnessed something extraordinary! The vision he saw was indescribable, and in a state of devotional ecstasy, he began narrating the divine scene:
“Vyasaraya, having ascended to the assembly of Chittrajanya (Lord Narayana),
Is welcomed by the liberated souls with precious jewels and lights of gems.
He is being seated on a chariot of resplendent jewels,
Riding toward the solar abode and then to the glorious Satyaloka with joy.
With celestial instruments resonating with enchanting melodies,
A shower of flowers descends, and the liberated ones offer divine lights.
The Gandharvas sing, the Magadha groups celebrate,
And the immortals gather, joining in a grand celestial festival.
The celestials approach to greet him,
While the Haridasas (servants of Vishnu) sing praises of Lord Vishnu’s virtues.
On this day of Phalguna Chaturthi in the Vilambi Samvatsara,
In Vijayanagara, in the early hours, seated in Padmasana,
He chanted 'Narayana, the lotus-eyed Lord,' and folded his hands.
All the tasks he undertook on this earth, in so many ways,
Have been completed. It was as though his divine mission had reached fulfillment.
Messengers of Kamalaksha (the lotus-eyed Lord) came to summon him,
Through the yogic path, to a realm where he no longer needed to remain.
On a golden seat of lotus, accompanied by Purandara Vittala,
I saw the Lord arriving, radiant with splendor, extending his hands to receive him."
This divine narration, filled with celestial imagery, was a testament to the grand welcome Vyasaraja received as he transcended to the eternal realm of Lord Narayana.
The news that Sri Vyasaraja Gurusarvabhauma had entered into deep meditation on Lord Narayana reached Sri Vijayindra and Sri Srinivasa Tirtha, leaving them deeply grieved. Mourning the loss of their great Guru, they reminisced about his unmatched virtues and love for his disciples, shedding tears in devotion. The news of Sri Vyasaraja's departure spread throughout the capital, and thousands of people flocked to witness the final darshan of their revered Guru.
Emperor Achyuta Devaraya and his son-in-law Ramaraya were profoundly saddened and came to pay their final respects, offering heartfelt tributes. Ramaraya then approached Sri Vyasaraja’s disciples, Sri Srinivasa Tirtha and Sri Vijayindra Tirtha, with the Emperor’s wish to perform the installation of Sri Vyasaraja’s Brindavana (sacred tomb) with grandeur and in accordance with tradition, involving all the honors of the Kannada empire. The disciples approved the plan, and preparations were initiated.
As per Sri Vyasaraja’s instructions to Sri Purandara Dasa, it was decided that his Brindavana would be placed on the sacred central islet of the Tungabhadra River, near the Brindavanas of the revered predecessors of the Mahasansthan—Sri Padmanabha Tirtha, Sri Jayatirtha, Sri Kavindra Tirtha, and Sri Vagisha Tirtha.
A grand procession was organized, with all the royal honors of the Kannada empire. Sri Vyasaraja’s mortal remains were adorned and placed in a golden palanquin, carried by Brahmins, accompanied by musicians playing auspicious instruments and the chanting of Vedic hymns. The procession reached the islet on the Tungabhadra River, where, following the sacred traditions of the Mahasansthan, the Brindavana was established near the Brindavana of Sri Padmanabha Tirtha.
On that day, Sri Srinivasa Tirtha and Sri Vijayindra Tirtha conducted the worship of the Lord and the Maha Samaradhana (final rites) for Sri Vyasaraja with great devotion and grandeur. The Brindavana was beautifully decorated with silk garments, floral garlands, and sandalwood paste, under the guidance of Sri Vijayindra.
Sri Srinivasa Tirtha, carrying Lord Sri Mula Gopala Krishna Pattabhirama Vyasa Deva, placed the deity on the Brindavana in a golden plate, performed the Kanakabhisheka (ritual bathing with golden water), and offered Hastodaka (sacred water) along with the Mahamangalarati (grand arati).
With a choked voice and tears streaming from his eyes, Sri Srinivasa Tirtha composed and offered a Charama Shloka (final verse) in tribute to his Guru:
"Arthikalpitakallōyaṁ pratyarthigajakēsarī |
Vyāsatīrthagururbhayādasmadiṣṭārthasiddhayē ||"
Meaning:
"This Vyasaraja, like a mighty lion among elephants, vanquished opponents in debates. May his divine presence in this sacred Brindavana remove all our fears and fulfill our cherished desires."
Following this, elaborate rituals were conducted. Brahmins performed worship, and thousands of devotees were served teertha prasada (consecrated food). A grand feast with delicious offerings was provided to all the attendees, and generous donations were distributed.
Over three days, a Vidwat Sabha (assembly of scholars) was held, during which scholars, students, poets, musicians, and Haridasas were honored with gifts and recognition for their contributions.
Translation of the Event and Stotram by Sri Vijayindra Tirtha:
On the day of the Uttarārādhana (final ceremony), Sri Vijayindra Tirtha, standing in front of the Brindavana of Sri Vyasaraja, offered heartfelt praises and composed a stotra (hymn) glorifying the greatness of his Guru. He reverently offered this stotra and prostrated before the Brindavana.
Stotram Composed by Sri Vijayindra Tirtha
(Sri Vyasaraja Gurusarvabhauma Stotram)
I bow to Sri Mukunda, whose lotus feet are worshipped by the gods.
His divine glance grants prosperity and removes ignorance.
May he, the eternal bee of Ananda Tirtha’s lotus heart,
Guide my intellect, free from arrogance.
Sri Vyasa Yogi, immersed in the Lord’s lotus feet,
Revered by devotees, wise in the essence of Dharma,
A renunciate free from worldly desires, a singer of divine glories,
Ever surrounded by the music of celestial beings,
May he always bless me with auspiciousness.
Master of Advaita’s refutation and propagator of Madhva’s Siddhanta,
Effortless conqueror of debaters,
Who liberates the devout with his teachings,
May Sri Vyasa Yogi protect me.
Marked with divine strength like the thunderbolt and armed with divine knowledge,
A lion to the elephantine scholars of opposing schools,
May Sri Vyasaraja, the supreme teacher,
Grant me success and fulfillment of my desires.
His very name destroys heaps of sins.
Simply by remembering him, evil spirits and troubles flee.
May I always take refuge in Sri Vyasaraja,
Who is the crest jewel of Madhva’s Siddhanta.
Liberator of seekers through his divine knowledge,
Unparalleled in scholarship,
May the blessings of Sri Vyasa Yogi
Ensure the prosperity of all my endeavors.
Verses Highlighting Guru’s Greatness
“Namō Vyāsa Munīndrāya Bhaktābhīṣṭa Pradāyinē |
Namatāṁ Kalpataravē Bhajatāṁ Kāmadhēnavē ||”
"Salutations to Vyasa Muni, the supreme Guru,
Who fulfills the wishes of his devotees,
Like the Kalpataru (wish-granting tree) to those who bow to him,
And like the Kamadhenu (divine cow) to those who worship him."
"Yō Vyāsa Trayasañjñakān Dṛḍhatārān Madhvāryaśāstrārthakān |
Rakṣaddajaśilākṛtīn Bahumatān Kṛtvā Parairdustarān ||"
"He protected the three Vyasas’ (philosophical) legacies,
Strengthened Madhva’s teachings with clarity and precision,
And transformed difficult concepts into universally accepted doctrines.
May he always protect me."
"Madhva Siddhānta Dugābhivṛddhi Pūrṇa Kalādharah |
Vyāsarāja Yatīndrō Mē Bhūyādīptita Siddhayē ||"
"May Vyasaraja, the moon of Madhva Siddhanta,
Complete with divine qualities,
Ever bless me with success and enlightenment."
Significance of the Stotram:
This stotram is a masterpiece, reflecting the deep reverence Sri Vijayindra Tirtha had for Sri Vyasaraja. It extols Sri Vyasaraja’s unparalleled scholarship, his victories over Advaita, his devotion to Lord Narayana, and his steadfast propagation of Madhva’s Siddhanta. Each verse underscores his virtues, divine blessings, and role as a beacon for devotees and scholars.
Concluding Observations
Sri Vijayindra Tirtha, along with the disciples and devotees, conducted elaborate rituals and worship at the Brindavana of Sri Vyasaraja. They adorned the Brindavana with silk garments, flower garlands, and sandalwood paste, and performed Kanakabhisheka (golden ablution) with devotion. The atmosphere was filled with the chanting of Vedic hymns, devotional songs, and offerings of gratitude.
The day concluded with a grand feast for all attendees, including Brahmins, scholars, students, and devotees. Over three days, assemblies of scholars, poets, musicians, and Haridasas were held, honoring the legacy of Sri Vyasaraja, the Gurusarvabhauma (sovereign among Gurus).
Translation of Sri Vidyaratnakara Tirtha's Work on the Life of Sri Vyasaraja Gurusarvabhauma
Sri Vidyaratnakara Tirtha's Composition
“Sri Vyasaraja Gurusarvabhauma Charitam”
I bow to Lakshmi Narasimha, who bears the goddess Lakshmi on His chest, and to the venerable Gurus of profound wisdom. I also bow to Sri Vyasa Yogi, who has perfected the scriptures, fulfilled the desires of devotees, and earned the grace of Lord Vishnu. May virtuous souls find joy in these humble verses of praise.
Born as the son of the pious Rama Acharya Sudhiman by divine blessings,
He was graciously nurtured by Brahmanya Tirtha, the great Yati.
In the auspicious year and month of Vaishakha, on the seventh day,
Sri Vyasaraja incarnated as an aspect of Prahlada, blessed by Shesha (the serpent king).
In his youth, he was ordained into the fourth stage of life (Sannyasa)
By the blessings of Sri Brahmanya Tirtha, the master of great wisdom.
To gain knowledge, he went to the renowned teacher Raja Abhidhama,
And spent twelve years absorbing the wisdom of Mahesha’s teachings.
During the twelfth year, in the Vaishakha month,
He attained the seat of authority as a great ascetic.
For the joy of Lord Hari, he composed monumental works,
Such as the Nyaya Amruta and the Tarka Tandava,
Making complex doctrines accessible to all.
In the Salivahana Shaka year 1461,
He carved 732 deities of Lord Hanuman
To protect the land from the afflictions of demonic forces.
He defeated the Yavanas and Lecchas (invaders),
Demonstrating immense valor during his lifetime.
In the final days of his earthly sojourn,
On a Krishna Paksha day of the month of Magha,
He brought joy to his followers and fulfilled their desires,
Entrusting the kingdom of the earth to a ruler named Krishna.
In that year, in the Vilambi Samvatsara,
On the banks of the Vyasa Samudra, he established a great reservoir.
Having upheld the dignity of the Vedantic tradition,
He meditated deeply on Lord Narayana and concluded his earthly mission.
Glorification and Benediction
The remarkable life of Sri Vyasaraja, filled with divine miracles and spiritual mastery,
Was recounted by Sri Vidyaratnakara Tirtha,
A scholar of unparalleled wisdom.
Let those with pure hearts read this glorious account.
May Lord Narasimha, the protector of devotees,
Be pleased with those who revere Sri Vyasaraja.
May this revered Yatishwara (great ascetic),
Through the vast ocean of his blessings,
Grant wisdom to the seekers of truth.
Conclusion: This work, composed by Sri Vidyaratnakara Tirtha, narrates the extraordinary life, spiritual contributions, and divine miracles of Sri Vyasaraja Gurusarvabhauma. It highlights his unparalleled scholarship, devotion, and service to Lord Narayana, his role as a protector of Dharma, and his eternal legacy in the Vedantic tradition.
Thus, in the supremely sacred lineage of the Shashtika dynasty, the most revered Sri Vyasaraja Gurusarvabhauma, an incarnation of Prahlada Raja, assumed the sacred seat of learning, the Vidya Simhasana of Sri Rajendra Tirtha's Poorvadi Matha, the great institution established by Sri Madhvacharya. For 85 years, he tirelessly traveled across Bharata Khand (India) twice, defeating hundreds of great scholars and opponents in debates, firmly establishing Dvaita Siddhanta and proclaiming the supremacy of Sri Hari.
Through the composition of extraordinary texts such as Chandrika, Nyayamruta, and Tarka Tandava, he safeguarded and propagated the philosophy of Madhvacharya. He supported hundreds of scholars and Brahmins by granting them lands and agraharas, organized anna daana (food donation) for lakhs of people, and served as the Guru to six emperors of the Kannada empire. He contributed to the holistic development of the empire by establishing a Sanskrit university, enabling tens of thousands of people to study and excel in worldly knowledge and become great scholars.
He established 732 idols of Sri Pranadeva (Hanuman) across the land, realized the direct vision of Sri Krishna Murali Mohana, and built hundreds of lakes and reservoirs for the benefit of farmers and the common people. He continuously worked for the welfare of all virtuous individuals, nurturing stalwarts such as Sri Vijayindra, Sri Vadiraja, Sri Govinda Odeyar, Sri Srinivasa Tirtha, and Sri Narayana Yatindra, as well as enlightened souls like Sri Purandara Dasa and Sri Kanaka Dasa.
Sri Vyasaraja contributed immensely to the spread of Haridasa Sahitya and Kannada literature, ushering in the golden era of the Vijayanagara Kannada Empire, making it renowned across the world. Revered by kings and emperors, he demonstrated countless miracles and gained eternal fame. Following the divine command of the Lord, he concluded his avatara with unmatched accomplishments.
The greatness of Sri Vyasaraja Gurusarvabhauma is immeasurable, profound, infinite, and indescribable. The Madhva community and the people of India are eternally blessed to have had such a divine soul as their Guru. We humbly pray that Sri Vyasaraja’s holy feet bestow knowledge, devotion, and auspicious blessings upon all virtuous souls and protect them always.
|| May Sri Madhva Yatindra Sadguru bestow eternal blessings. ||
|| Offered at the feet of Sri Krishna. ||
|| Thus concludes the fourth chapter of Sri Vyasaraja Gurusarvabhauma Charitam in Kaliyuga Kalpataru. ||