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                             SRI RAMANUJA AND TIRUKOTTIYUR             

SRI PERUMBUDUR:

SRI PERUMBUDUR  is a place near Chennai (Madras-Before) wherein Asuri Keshava Somayaji a Vedic Scholar lived. He and his wife Kantimati or Bhu-devi were offering prayers at the Shrine of Lord Parthasarathy to bless them with a child. Their prayer was fruitful and Ramanuja the Great Reformer was born in 1017 A.D.

The child was extraordinarily intelligent and the parents performed several sacraments binding on the Brahmans. He studied the Vedas and all the other subject till he was 16 years of age. In the course of time he was married. After the demise of his father he moved to Kancheepuram in search of a competent Guru with his wife and mother. There he met Yadava-Prakasa, who would teach him Vedanta and became his disciple.

Covina, a cousin of Ramanuja also joined him to study under the teacher Yadavaprakasa. Govinda is the son of kamalanayana Bhatta and Sridevi (Sister of Bhudevi, mother of Ramanuja)

Yadava Prakasa interpreted, the upanishadic passage "Sathyam gnanam Anantham Brahma" (Taithriyopanishad: UP:1.1) as the attributes of truth, knowledge and infinity, could not co-exist in Brahma the Supreme. As for example, broken-horn-ness, horn-less ness and full-horn ness could not co-exist in a cow. Ramanuja objected this misinterpretation. Challenged by the teacher for his interpretation, Ramanuja said Brahman has these and infinite other attributes which are inseparable and can co-exist without mutual contradiction as in the case of a flower wherein co-exists redness, softness, perfume etc. The analogy of a cow in this case is not appropriate. Yadava hearing Ramanuja's interpretation  was annoyed.

On another day Yadava-prakasa was explaining a verse "Kapyasam Pundarika mevamakshini"(Chand:Up:1-6-7) The Brahma has Red eyes like the posteriors of a monkey. When Ramanuja (while he was serving Yadava with oil for a head bath) hear this and was pained very much about the abuse of Vedic passage and tears dropped from his eye and fell upon Yadava. Yadava enquired Ramanuja for his grievance. Ramanuja said that beautiful Vedic lines are so awkwardly constructed and explained.

He gave the correct interpretation. Here KA-Means water and PIBATI -means to drink. Water-drinker is thus 'KAPI', the Sun or the lotus-stalk. 'ASA' is to open. PUNDARIKA is the lotus. Thus Brahma is the Sun whose eyes are like the lotus which blooms under the beams of Sunrays.

Yadava was furious about the interpretation and ordered Ramanuja to leave his studentship. Yadava was worried and believed that Ramanuja would be a rival and may injure his reputation by his intelligence. He thought of  a plan with his or dent students to finish Ramanuja. They planned to go on a pilgrimage to Varanasi (Banaras) and drown Ramanuja in Ganges and that will avoid any suspicions about the death of Ramanuja. Ramanuja was asked to join again and pursue his studies and Yadava proclaimed his plan to visit Varanasi. He started with his students including Ramanuja and Govinda on a trip to Varanasi. On their journey in Vindya forests, Govinda got an opportunity to caution Ramanuja about the conspiracy and advised Ramanuja to leave immediately. Yadava and his disciples waited for a while and searched for Ramanuja. They thought he is lost in the wilderness and continued their journey.

Ramanuja wandered in the forest not knowing to proceed any direction. He was thirsty, hungry and footsore and was unable to advance further. He looked round for help, lamenting his fate. He heaved a sigh and was comforted to see a Fowler and his wife. He enquired where they are going and the Fowler replied "We are from Siddhasrama and proceeding to Satyavratha Kshetra" Ramanuja Asked  "May I accompany you to that holy shrine?" They agreed and led Ramanuja. While it was getting dark all the three thought of spending the night under the shelter of a tree. The Fowler's wife asked her husband to fetch some water to quench her thirst and the husband promised her to get the same when it dawns. Ramanuja overheard their conversation and thought of serving them in the forest. He got up in the morning and offered prayers to God and found a pond with water and thought of helping the Fowler's wife. But to his surprise, they had disappeared. He enquired the few men passing by. 'Is there any town near by ? The people gazed at him and said "o, Brahmin are you mad ? can't you see the Gopuram of Lord Varadaraja presiding deity of Kancheepuram?". Ramanuja was stunned with the reply and wondered how was it possible to cover a distance of 1000 miles or more from Vindya to Kancheepuram in one night!. He realized that the Fowler and his wife are none other than the Lord himself with his consort Lakshmi who brought him safely to this place. His joy knew no bounds for the Gods descend to the weak and helpless at the time of crisis. From that day onwards he carried water daily to Varadaraja for oblations.

YADAVA'S RETURN:

While Yadava and his disciples were at Kashi Govinda got a Shivalinga while bathing in Ganges and showed it to his teacher. Yadava said " you are lucky Lord Siva's blessings are with you. Install the same in suitable place and be serving him". Accordingly on return journey, Govinda installed Shivalingam at Kalahasti and remained in the service of Lord Siva.

Yadava completed his pilgrimage and returned to Kanchipuram and was astonished to see Ramanuja alive. Ramanuja narrated how he was lost in the wilderness and saved by the Lord with his consort Lakshmi.

Yadava hearing the experience starred at Ramanuja in fear and wonder, invited him to grace his school with his presence and to complete his studies.

It is essential here to know about the previous masters of this school prior to Ramanuja. There were masters viz., Nathamuni, Alavandar or Yamunahcharya, who were apostles of this school. After the Azhwars came the Achariars. They possess the two characters i.e knowledge of God and Love to God.

In 916 AD Yamunacharya was born to Iswaramuni son of Nathamuni. They lived in Vira narayanapuram which is 14Km from Chidambaram. The presiding deity is Mannanar of the Holy Shrine Mannar-koil or Vira Narayanapuram. Once there came a party of srivaishnava to visit Mannanar and sung the sacred hymn(5-8) from the Thiruvaimozhi of Saint Nammalwar ending with the 11th verse. Nathamuni was fascinated to hear this and begged them to recite the one thousand. They said, they only know this ten and no more. Nathamuni was anxious to know the rest of the hymns and thought that he could get the remaining verse from Kurugu land (i.e. Azhwar Tirunagiri near Tirunelveli). He traveled south and paid due honour to Saint Nammalwar and enquired about "Prabanda" with Parankusha Dasar a disciple of Madhurakavigal (one of the Azhwars). Parankusha Dasar said that his teacher had left a message that whosoever will concentrate his mind in Yoga before Saint Nammalwar (Holy image) and repeat the ten verses of "Kanninum Siriththambu" twelve thousand times can get not only one thousand of Saint Nammalwar but also other three thousand composed by the other Azhwars.

Nathamuni was rejoiced to hear this and fell at the feet of Parankusha Dasar to teach him the ten hymns of Saint Madhurakavi Azhwar. Parankusha Dasar finding a right person taught the hymns to Nathamuni. Nathamuni repeated the hymns twelve thousand times as specified by Parankusha Dasar and invoked Saint Nammalwar, who presented him the Divya prabhandam as well as the holy doctrine of the Three Rahasyas as well as the secrets of Yoga.

Among the eight disciples of Nathamuni, Uyyakkondar and Kurugai-Kavalappan were initiated to Divya Prabhandam and Yoga rahasya. Nathamuni Commanded the two teach his would-be-grandson Yamunacharya all the knowledge of sastra and the yoga he imparted. He had composed two works, i.e., Nyayatatva and Yoga Rahasya.

Yamunacharya Son of Iswaramuni was  genius right from his boyhood. He had defeated Akkiyalvan a scholar at the king's court and won half the kingdom and named as "Alavandar" by the queen (i.e. came to fulfill the queen's prevision of his success). Yamunacharya was ruling the kingdom. Uyyakkondar, disciple of Nathamuni could not complete the instructions of his guru in his life time and entrusted the job to his disciple RamaMishra in initiating Yamuna to spiritual discipline. Accordingly Ramamishra was waiting for the right time and succeeded in bringing Yamnunacharya to the spiritual fold. He taught all the teachings he had from his Guru. Yamunacharya who was inquisitive and knowing the spiritual bliss renounced the wordly pleasures and took to sanyasa. He had several disciples at Srirangam amongst them the five disciples are important viz., Gostipurna, Sri Shaila purna, Maha Purna, Kanchipurna, Maladhava. His disciple Srishailapurna moved to Tirupathi and engaged himself in the service of Lord venkateswara. He had two sisters Sridevi and Bhudevi Ramanuja was the son of Bhudevi and Govinda the son of Sridevi.              

Coming back to the life of Ramanuja, he continued to study under Yadava-Prakasa. Once the king of that region sent words to yadava to exorcist the evil spirit that had come on his princess. He was told that Yadava was well versed in such lore. Yadava commanded the spirit to leave the body of the princess. The spirit said "Yadava I know the magical formula better than you, I know  who you are I also know why I have become a brahma-rakshasa". Yadava challenged to proclaim and the spirit answered you were guna in your previous birth living in the holes of Madhurantaka tank. A batch of Srivaishnavas who were on pilgrimage took lunch near the tank and the left over food was thrown by them and eaten by you thus, you were born as a Brahmin in this birth. As for my case, I was a great scholar and performed a yaga (a sacred ritual) and due to some omissions in the performance go this birth. I will obey the orders of Ramanuja, your disciple if he places his holy feet on my head !. Yadava turned to Ramanuja and Ramunaja commanded the spirit to leave, complying with its request and the spirit left the body. The king was overjoyed, honoured Yadava and his disciple.

In the meanwhile, Yamuna was conducting his expositions of this faith and was in search of a capable successor. he was informed by his disciple about Ramanuja's arguments with Yadava, and other incidents from time to time. yammuna curious to meet Ramanuja proceeded to Kancheepuram and saw Ramanuja in the studentship of Yadava. He prayed Lord Varadharaja to give Ramanuja to this faith and returned to Srirangam without getting an opportunity to meet Ramanuja.

While Ramanuja continued his studies under Yadava there was one more occasion where Ramanuja corrected the misinterpretation of Yadava. Yadava got enraged and told to search for another teacher.

Ramanuja informed  his mother and she advised to meet kanchipurna who is in great favour with Lord Varadharaja. Ramanuja requested Kanchipurna to be his master. Kanchipurna refused to be so as he was born of low caste and advised Ramanuja to be in the service of Lord Varadharaja and continue to supply water for oblations as he was doing before.

Yamuna was aging and was ill. He summoned MahaPurna his disciple, and advised him to fetch Ramanuja from Kancheepuram. Mahapurna left immediately and brought Ramanuja as early as possible. But before the arrival of Ramanuja at Srirangam Yamuna attained the lotus feet of the Lord. On the banks of Kaveri Ramanuja and Mahapurna could get the glimpse of the body only. Ramanuja's sorrow knew no bounds. While looking at the hand of Yamuna, Ramanuja observed that three fingers were folded. Ramanuja enquired the close associates of Yamuna, as to whether he had any wishes unfulfilled. The disciples said that  Yamuna wished very much to see these three things completed. 1. To show gratitude to the memory of Veda Vyasa and parashara, 2. To pay tribute to Saint Nammalwar and 3. To write a commentary on Braham sutra to bring out the real Vishishtadvaita.

Ramanuja heard this and pledged that he will fulfill all the three wishes of the great master. To the astonishment of the people assembled, the three fingers opened out. Thus enlightening the people of the successor of Yamuna. The group requested Ramanuja to be their leader and visit Lord Ranganatha. Ramanuja was furious at God and decided not to see Ranganatha as the Lord did not give him the opportunity to meet his great master. He returned to Kancheepuram with full of grief and a heavy heart.

Ramnuja continued his service of fetching water to Lord Varadharaja. As his friendship with Kanchipurna grew, he requested again and again to be his master. Kanchipurna said "Lord Varadharaja has more suitable teacher". Be patient and continue your service to Lord. Ramanuja was not convinced that because of Purna's lower caste he cannot be his master and felt that this ought to be in  special cases where spiritually advanced Saint's as Kanchipurna's were concerned.

Ramanuja invited Kanchipurna to dine with him the next day and was happy to note the acceptance of KanchiPurna. Ramanuja planned to eat the remains of food eaten by his spiritual elder and ordered his wife to prepare the dinner. Kanchipurna sensing the intention behind Ramanuja's invitation went to Ramanuja's residence before the arrival of Ramanuja and asked Ramanuja's wife to serve him the meals. She did accordingly and as per tradition she had thrown away the left over purified the place and she herself bathed prepared the dinner again. Ramanuja returned and came to know that Purna had finished his meals. "Ignorant Woman" he cried with anger 'you have spoiled all my plans'. Then he tried to console himself that it may be the Lord's wish and approached Kanchipurna to get his doubts cleared from Lord varadharaja. Kanchipurna promised to do the same and got the answers to the question answer as 1. I am the supreme truth (Paratatva). 2. I and souls are different (Bheda). 3. By faith shall men reach Me, their salvation. 4. Thought of Me at the time of death is not compulsory. 5. Release from bondage (Moksha) follows immediately on death. 6. Choose Mahapurna as your spiritual teacher (Acharya).

Kanchipurna conveyed this to Ramanuja. Ramanuja was overjoyed and as commended by Lord Varada set out to Srirangam. In the meanwh8ile Mahapurna from Srirangam had left Srirangam  in fulfilling his master Yamuna's wish and selection of successor i.e.Raamanuja to be the apostle of this faith. Both of them met at Madhurantakam Ramanuja prostrated and thrilled to see Mahapurna for whom he had left Kancheepuram. He said 'Please accept me as your disciple and teach me all that is good to my soul. Mahapurna was also equally happy and lead Ramanuja to the Holy Vakula Tree near the Tank and performed all the sacraments of initiation i.e.  SAMASHRAYANA.  Then both of them accompanied by Mahapurna's wife arrived at Kanchipuram. Ramanuja made all arrangements for the stay of his Guru nest to his residence and learnt under the guidance of Mahapurna.

Kuresha was the landlord of Kuram, three miles from Kancheepuram. He was very rich and called as Kuranatha or Kuresha. From morning to till late in the night the poor and needy were served food and clothing freely.

One day at Midnight Kuresha's residence door closed after serving the poor with a bang. The sound was heard at Kanchi by the Goddess Lakshmi consort of Lord Varada. She enquired and Lord Varada answered it is the sound of the door of Kuresha's residence which was just closed after serving the poor. The Goddess wished to see the great devotee and send Kanchipurna to fetch Kuresha. Kanchipurna arrived at Kuresha's residence and conveyed the purpose of his visit to Kuresha. Kuresha was dismayed and said what ! a sinner like me appear so big in the Lord's eye. My doors drew the attention of the Lord! Pride hampers salvation. Humility paves the way for it. He decided that he should renounce all the worldly pleasures and gave away everything he had to the poor. Accompanied by his wife Andalamma., set forth to join Ramanuja at Srirangam. He conveyed to Kanchipurna that he shall see the Goddess Lakshmi only after meeting his teacher and purified by the service to him. Kanchipurna returned and informed Lord Varadharaja. The Lord was very happy about the swift action and blessed Kuresha.

Kuresha, with his wife was proceeding to Srirangam and was crossing the thick forest. She was scared and enquired if there were any thieves in such places! Kuresha replied if you have anything then only there is fear. Your fear tell me that you have something hidden and commanded her to show. The wife said 'pardon me, I thought you may need a cup for drinking water on your long journey and brought a golden cup! so saying she took the cup and handed over to Kuresha. He took it and threw away and said 'now beloved, your fear is gone and thus they continued their journey and finally reached Srirangam. Ramanuja was jubilant at his arrival, received him with warm welcome. Thus Kuresha joined Ramanuja a great and most important personage for the life-work of Ramanuja and made Srirangam as his permanent residence.

We recall here that Ramanuja had sent words to his maternal uncle Srisailapurna to fetch Govinda. Srisailasapurna visited Kalahasti and met Govinda. He convinced Govinda to come back to Srivaishnavism and brought his to Ramanuja. After performing 'Samashrayana' the five fold sacraments of Vaishnavas. Ramanuja was very happy to receive Govinda at Srirangam. Thus the followers of Ramanuja were increasing to assist in his life mission.

Ramanuja met his teacher Mahapurna and begged his pardon for his wife's conduct at Kancheepuram. Mahapurna embraced him and said 'That you had not committed anything to pardon and on the other hand you are growing spiritually'. Ramanauja said, 'To fill the void caused by Yamuna's demise, and as he just missed an opportunity to talk to Yamuna about the spiritual matters, requested Mahapurna to guide him in learning what was expounded by Yamuna and to impart all the mysteries of this religion. Mahapurna exclaimed, 'I was waiting for an occasion like this. There shall be no delay. The essence of out Holy Faith is embedded in Dwaya-mantra-the very gist of the Vedas! purifying , meritorious!' so saying he imparted to Ramanuja the essentials of religion contained in it. There is but one God. He is all merciful, all-knowing and All-mighty and is the soul's end and the aim is therefore eternal service at His Holy Feet. 'You may learn these through Thirukkottiyur-Nambi or Gostipurna who was an intimate disciple of Yamuna.'

Thirukkottiyur was small place near Pudukkotai wherein Thirukkottiyur-Nambi or Gostipurna was leading pious life in a small hut. It was only after Ramanuja's visit , the place came to limelight. Even for Ramanuja this place and the happenings gave a new dimension to his life. It was a turning point in his life.

Ramanuja as advised by Mahapurna left Srirangam to Thirukkottiyur in search of Gostipurna and enquired the pole. They directed him to a poor low hut. Ramanuja proceeded slowly prostrating and entered the residence of Thirukkottiyur-nambi also known as Gostipurna. He approached Nambi falling at his feet prayed 'Teach me Holy sire, all the doctrines of our Faith. I am the humble disciple of Mahapurna. "Gostipurna saw Ramanuja and said what I have to tell"? and turned away. Ramanuja did not speak a word and returned to Srirangam. Gostipurna came to Srirangam and paid homage to Lord Ranganatha. Lord Ranganatha honoured him and commended through the priest to instruct Ramanuja in all the occult lore of the Faith. Gostipurna said ' It is you who has ruled that the high truths should be told to one who is serious, dutiful and who has served his teacher at least for a year. Hence I must wait and try your Ramanuja'. Ranaganatha answered Not so in this case, he is fully qualified and you may impart the truths.

Gostipurna instructed Ramanuja to visit him and left Srirangam. Ramanuja went to Thirukkottiyur as directed. when he met Gostipurna he said 'Not this time, can you go now and come again?" Ramanuja prostrated and returned without any protest nor felt irritated but simply obeyed the command. Eighteen times Ramanuja visited Thirukkottiyur and every time Gostipurna's answer was the same. Gostipurna had no other intention but to test the faith and zeal of Ramanuja. When Ramanuja returned to Srirangam for the eighteenth time he move to tears at the futility of his efforts and was found deeply revolving in his mind as to what he should do to be worthy. A siccip0le of Gostipurna with whom Ramanauja expressed his feelings, and asked him How am I to become worthy? This was conveyed to Gostipurna by his disciple. Knowing the Ramanuja's yearning for knowledge, Gostipurna sent the disciple to Ramanuja to come alone with his staff and pennant. Immediately Ramanuja proceeded to Thirukkottiyur along with Kuresha and Dasarati. He prostrated and stood in front of Gostipurna, Gostipurna said 'Did I not tell you to come alone?' Ramanuja said 'Holy Sir, "Come with staff and Pennant was your order. Accordingly Dasarathi is my staff and Kuresha is my pennant. I am never without them. Gostipurna was moved with Ramanuja's exemplary conduct and astuteness. He led Ramanuaja to a secret corner and reveled him the hidden truths of  the Thirumantra and said that you shall not disclose this sacred mantra to any one.

Ramanuja reverently received the teachings but could not keep the truths within him though imparted under the pledge of secrecy. His heart was burning with compassion to Humanity. He decided to proclaim this to the world though it amounts to disobedience to his teacher.

Next day he climbed the Gopuram of Lord Narasimha the presiding deity of Thirukkottiyur and called everyone irrespective of caste, creed, colour , sex to assemble and revealed this precious Truths relating to spirit, which he had learnt from Gostipurna. Gostipurna heard the news and commanded Ramanuja to appear before him and asked in anger "You culprit, Did I not tell you that you should not reveal our noble truths to undeserving? How dare you  to disregard my command? Ramanuja said "Revered Sir, I confess my guilty of disobedience but I thought if all these people can attain moksha by hearing this sacred mantra., I do not going to tell because of disobedience to my teacher of this sacred truth. Moreover all the merit of that whole-sale salvation goes to you. It was compassion for mankind  that gave the courage to disobey your'.

Gostipurna was struck dumb at this reasoning and embraced Ramanuja with love. He said "My son I am really proud of you. Henceforth your name shall be EMBERUMANAR. Come you shall learn more from me and enriched Ramanuja with many more teachings of this Faith.

After some time Gostipurna came on a visit to Srirangam. He met his friend Mahapurna who was also a disciple of Yamunacharya. He advised Ramanuja to learn the utterances of Holy Saints (Azhwars) from Maladhara. Thus Ramanuja began the study under Maladhara. There were many occasions when Ramanuja gave a different interpretations and this irritated the teacher. Gostipurna heard this and came to Srirangam to meet the teacher and student. After hearing the interpretation of Ramanuja he told his friend that Ramanuja's interpretation is correct and according to Yamuna's teachings. Leave the pride that you are a teacher! By this Maladhara had the opportunity of knowing clearly the utterances of Azhwars.

Thus Ramanuja learnt all the essentials of this Faith through different masters who were the disciples of Yamunacharya. Ramanuja's studentship was complete. He started to write some books by means of his intellectual accomplishments. His first work was Gadya Traya  (The three prose's). The Daily Worship-Mantra (Nithya Grantham) and the Geetha Bhasya (Commentaries on the Bhagavad-Gita .

Once Ramanuja was walking in the streets of Srirangam where a few boys by their toes drew a diagram and said it is the Lord and were enacting all that they saw their elders doing in the temple and finally distributing a heap of Road-dust as Prasadam. They offered the same to Ramanuja. Ramanuja fell reverently on the Road and rising received the food (Prasadam) reverently and went his way.

Ramanuja's stewardship in the temple, raised jealousy amongst some and they thought of serving poisoned food. As per Yati dharma Ramanuja used to beg for alms and one house lady was instructed to offer the poisoned food to Ramanuja. When Ramanuja came for Alms, she saw his bright face and was shaking, confessed the plot of killing him by serving poisoned food. Ramanuja was very sad about the incident and was fasting.

The news reached Gostipurna who started immediately to Srirangam. He was crossing the dry bed of kaveri river near Srirangam where Ramanuja went to receive him. It was mid-day sun which was scorching the head and feet. Ramanuja prostrated before the Guru on the burning sun. Purna did not bid him to rise Kidambi Acchan a disciple of Ramanuja waited for a moment and could not control himself exclaimed ! 'Sir , Don't you have any tenderness in your heart? Do you want my Ramanuja to be fried and roasted on this burning sand. I care not to your regulation'. Thus saying he lifted Ramanuja from the ground. Gostipurna said "Acchan I was searching for a man like you. Henceforth you shall be the body guard of Ramanuja and you shall cook the food for Ramanuja. Now my worries of Ramanuja's future and safety are relieved.

A profound Brahmin scholar by name Yajna Murthy came down to Srirangam touring all over India defeating the scholars by  his Maya vada or the illusions of Cosmos, invited Ramanuja for a debate. Ramanuja said 'If Yajna murthy wins I shall give up my ministry' and yajna murthy said 'If I am defeated I shall embrace Ramanuaja's faith.' Thus staking, the debate went on for 18 days. On the17th night Ramanuja prayed Lord Varada what is your will? If I am defeated what will happen to the cause for which Azhwars, and the sagas like Nathamuni and Yamunacharya had dedicated their life. Let it be, if such is Thy will. Thus conversing Ramanuja fasted and slept. Lord Varada appeared in his dream and said, "Don't worry my beloved, we are giving an able hand in your mission. Remember the work of Yamuna and you will win". The 18th day Yajna murthy was stunned to see the beaming face of Ramanuja and was defeated. He fell at the feet of Ramanuja embraced him and named his as "Devaraja Muni".

While a study of Saint Nammalwars decade III-3 was on, addressed to Lord Srinivasa of the Tirupathi hill. Ramanuja enquired who is ready to serve Srinivasa with flowers by raising a flower garden? Ananta Suri, a disiciple said he was ready and he left to Tirupathi.

Ramanuja had longed to visit Tiruppathi, he obtained the holy permission from Lord Ranga and started to Tirupathi. After visiting several shrines he arrived  at Asta- Sahasra-Grama where he had two disciples ;viz, Yagnesa and Varadarya. The former was rich and the latter was very poor and used to leave on alms. He sent the messengers to Yagnesa in advance to inform about his arrival. Yagnesa was glad to receive his master but neglected the messengers. Ramanuja heard the behaviour of Yagnesa, and decided to Varadarya's abode.

When Ramanuja arrived, Varadarya had gone for begging. His wife was not having a good cloth to wear. She rejoiced the arrival of their beloved teacher. She requested the Guru to be seated and went to the merchant who had an eye on this beautiful woman. She decided that even by committing this sin of offering herself it is worth wile to host the living God of theirs. Thus she went to the merchant and said give me all the provisions so as to host my beloved Guru and his disciple. The merchant was very happy and sent her all the required immediately. Varadarya returned and the wife narrated the happenings . He was overjoyed that his Acharya was properly hosted. He exclaimed "You are not just a wife, you are the Goddess. For the sake of our teacher you sacrificed all, even your woman's honour ! Ramanuja was pleased with their hospitality. The couple then went to the merchant offered him the Thirtham (the holy water) bestowed by their teacher and thanked him for providing the essential things to host their Guru. Then Varadarya left his wife at the merchant and returned. The merchant took the Thirtham and there was a sudden transformation in his attitude. He fell at the feel of Parutti-kollai wife of Varadarya and said "mother forgive me for my bad intention, I would like to meet Ramanuja". Parutti-Kollai brought him to the presence of Ramanuja who heard the incident and took the merchant also in his band of disciples.

Yagnesa waited later came to know that Ramanuja has to gone to Varadarya's residence. He ran and fell at the feet of Ramanuja, who lifted him and said  "you should remove your ego. The messengers are personification of God himself. You should have served them first".  Yagnesa corrected his ways and then Ramanuja arrived at Tiruppathi, visiting Kanchi on the way. Srisailapurna received Ramanuja with all the honours and led him to the Sanctum Sanctorum of Lord Venkatesa. Ramanuja spent some time with SrisailaPurna learning the great epics.

Govinda was serving Srisailapurna and Ramanuja while leaving Tiruppathi requested Srisailapurna to send Govinda. Srisailapurana ordered Govinda to follow Ramanuja. Govinda could not bear the separation of his Guru Srisailapurna. His health deteriorated. Ramanuja knowing the attachment Govinda had towards Srisailapurna sent him to Tiruppathi with two messengers. Govinda stood at the doorsteps of Srisailpurna. Thee attendant informed Srisailapurna about the arrival of Govinda. Srisailapurna was displeased and shouted in anger "Let the mad fellow depart". Srisailapurna 's wife said 'let him have food'. "No such consideration. A sold cow cannot be given grass. Let him be off" was the command. Govinda returned with the messengers to Srirangam. Ramanuja slowly won his heart and Govinda became a staunch follower of Ramanuja.

Ramanuja's congregation of disciples were increasing among them the four disciples: Kuresha, Dasarathi, Devarat, and Embar (Govinda) were significant. They discussed the different schools of thought and decided that a true interpretation of the Vedanta should be made systematically. Ramanuja accordingly instructed Kuresha to write down  while he interprets, and said to put the pen down while his interpretation is not according to scrip lures. Thus 'Sribahsya" the stupendous standard work on Vishistadvaita philosophy ( a commentary on Brahma Sutras) begun to be written. While Ramanuja dictated a passage on the concept of Jivatman, Kuresha ceased to write. Ramanuja noticed that Kuresha stopped writing stopped dictating. The others put forth some questions on the subject and Ramanuaj retracing, could grasp the mission and corrected. The Kuresha continued. Ramanuja appreciated Kuresha's action and in this manner Ramanuja composed the standard works. Sri-Bahsya, Vedantha-Dipa, Vedantha-sara, Vedantha-sangraha, Bhagavatgita-Bahsya and thus fulfilled one of the wishes of Yamuncharya.

The disciples of Ramanuja who had so long learnt the teachings approached their Guru and said "Holy master, your system is perfect and it must be made known to the world. We pray to undertake a tour visiting the Holy Shrines." Ramanuja agreed and they took the permission of Lord Ranganatha and started on the mission of spreading Ramanuja's philosophy. They covered several holy shrines in south i.e. Thirukkudanthai (Kumbakonam), Cholamandalam, Thiruvali Thirunagiri a nativity of Saint Parakalar or Tirumangai Azhwar, Thiru Malirunsolai entered Malabar, Trivandrum shrine of AnanthaPadmanabha established a Ramanuja Mutt and then proceeded towards North. They covered Mathura, NandaVrija, Govardhan, Brindavan, Salagram-Gandaki river, Naimisharanya, pushkara and from there to Kashmir. The Goddess Saraswati heard the commentary "Sri Bashya" and honoured Ramanuja with the title "Bhashyakar" and presented an Idol of Hayagriva. The king of Kashmir enquired what was the base for the Vishishtadvaita interpretation on Brahma Sutra? Ramanuja said 'it is based on the old Traditions and based on Bodhayana-Vruthi'. When scholars refereed the Ramanuja's explanations were correct. Ramanuja requested the king to spare the "Bodhayana-Vruthi",. The king agreed. While they were proceeding the envied scholars forced the disciples of Ramanuja to part with the glass Ramanuja was grieved, Kuresha sensing the cause for grievance of his master said "Sir, I read the Bodhayana Vruthi once completely. I can write the whole without any omissions and prepared the book. Ramanuja was overjoyed about the Kuresha's remarkable achievement.

Ramanuja came to Varanasi (Banaras) with the disciples and then to Puri and established a Mutt. From there to SriKurma, simhagiri (Ahobila), Tiruppathi, Kanchi, Sriperumbudur (his birth place), Thiruvellikkeni (Triplicane), Madhurantakam, Thiruvahindrapuram (near Cuddalore), Viranarayanapuram (Nathamuni's birth place) and arrived at Srirangam. The disciples and the master thus covered several places visiting presiding deities, getting more and more disciples to this faith.

Kuresha was living on alms and sue to accept each day's requirements (as already known to us from his life). One day it rained and he could not go for begging. He did his routine prayers and slept without food. Andalamma, his wife could not sleep and she heard the beating of drums at the Shrine of Ranganatha. She quipped 'Lord Ranga' when your Kuresha is fasting how can you feast? The cry of distress was heard by Ranganatha. Uttamanambi a temple functionary was immediately summoned by Ranga to take the prasadam (offerings) with all honours to the abode of Kuresha. He took the offerings as directed. Kuresha accepted two morsels, one for him and other for his wife and sent the remaining to the devotees of Lord on enquiry by Kuresha, wife confessed that , she envied Ranaganatha feasting while you were fasting without food. Kuresha advised her not to do this again. Lord Ranganatha, appeared in his dream and said "Kuresha, you accepted the two morsels of Prasadam (food) and I shall incarnate as your sons".

In due course Andalamma and Kuresha became the parents of two children. Ramanuja along with Govinda did all the sacraments and named the children as "VyasasBhattarya" and "ParasharaBhttaryra". The blessed children of the Lord were extraordinary in their intelligence and were the later masters of this faith.

Govinda brought his brother siriy-Govinda-pperumal into Ramanuja's fold Govinda-pperumal was blessed with a child and Ramanuja named the child PARANKUSHA NAMBI.

Thus Ramanuja fulfilled all the three promises made to yamunacharya.

In Nichilapuri or the modern Uraiyur (near Tiruchy) there was a good gymnast named Dhanurdasa who was a good archer. He loved a girl named Kanakamba, for her eyes were beautiful. during the festival season they visited Srirangam. He held his coverlet is great solitude to cover his lover's face from sunrays.

Ramanuja while returning from his oblations in the Kaveri, noticed the exceptional deed of this person. He sent one among his group to fetch him and enquired for his whereabouts and he outrage on public decency. Dhanurdasa made obeisance and told about himself and said "that the eyes of Kanakamba are more beautiful than lotus. My heart and here eyes are one. I cannot divert from her eyes". Ramanuja said 'but son, if I show you more beautiful eyes than those?" Dhanurdasa said "please show me Sir,. It will be  a great favour." Ramanuja led Dhanurdasa to the temple of Sri Ranga and said "see the eyes of the Lord and look steadily their beauty. There is nothing on this universe which is more beautiful than the Lord. Dhanurdasa was the divined , was completely hypnotized and could neither move his eyes away nor moved away from where he stood. Now Dhanurdasa was found to stare at Ranganatha without food and sleep. Ramanuja sent for him and he prostrated and said My savior make me your humble slave". Ramanuja smiled and conferred on him the Pancha-Samskara. Kanakamba came to know these and surrendered herself to Ramanuja to accept her also as his disciple. Thus the couple entered the spiritual discipline. Dhanurdasa became the most favourite of Ramanuja, who used to return after the bath of 'Kaveri' leaning on the shoulders of  Dhanurdasa and while going to the river leaning on Dasarathi. As per the custom this should have been vice versa as Dhanurdasa was a shudra and the Dasarathi was Brahmin by birth. This raised eyebrows  of some vaishnavas amongst his disciples. To convince them and to show that the spiritual evolvement is higher then the caste system, Ramanuja thought of a plan to teach them a lesson. He informed one of his disciple secretly to take away the clothes of these vaishnavas. The vaishnavas rose in the morning and made a big scene and fell on one another scolding each other. Ramanuja witnessed and smiled for it was unworthy of a Brahmin in his opinion. He called these disciples another day and suggested 'I shall keep Dhanurdasa engaged in a conversation. In the meanwhile go to his residence and take away all the gold that Kanakamba is wearing'. The disciples went and found that she was asleep took away all the ornaments on one side. Kanakamba understood that it was Brahmins who are at this act, was glad as she had an opportunity to serve these. for whom they are ready to sacrifice everything they had. She slowly turned the other side to facilitate the removal of ornaments on the other half of her body. The Brahmins were scared and took to their heels and Ramanuja and handed the stolen ornaments. Dhanurdasa departed and Ramanuja sent the Brahmins to get the details of the happenings at his residence. This disciples followed Dhanurdasa and over-heard the conversation Dhanurdasa entered his residence. Kanakamba opened the doors washed his feet and was to arrange for his food. Dhanurdasa looking at her "My beloved, what happened to your ornaments on one side? She said happily the incident and said "I thought of making available jewels on the other side but thinking I am awake they fled. Dhanurdasa chided her 'Foolish woman! If you were perfectly still they would have taken it in their own way. Any way half the jewels have been well invested and the remaining in a Vanity". The disciples were ashamed and reported to Ramanuja.

Ramanuja said "Do your realize now, some days back you made such a big show when you lost some worn clothes and see the difference between the spiritually evolved Dhanurdasa\It is the virtue that is most praised and not merely the caste.

Next day Ramanuja returned the Jewels to Dhanurdasa, Unquestioning obedience to the spiritual preceptor is one of the most important canons laid down in Srivaishnavism. This was observed to the letter by Dhanurdasa.

Dasarathi as we know, is the sister's son of Ramanuja. He is also a gem among Ramanuja's disciples. Once Mahapurna's daughter Attulai requested her mother-in-law to accompany her. She wanted to bathe in the river. The mother-in-law taunted her to get some servants from her parents. The daughter approached her father who directed her to Ramanuja. Ramanuja heard her grievance sent Dasarathi and bid him to accompany attulai. Dasarathi without a word engaged himself as a servant in the abode of attulai. The relatives of Attulai enquired as to why he performs these duties? He said "I obey my Guru and discharge sincerely the job entrusted. You may get the answer from my teacher" and directed them to Ramanuja. They approached Ramanuja and enquired Ramanuja said " you demanded a servant from Attulai's parents. My teachers problem is mine and hence sent Dasarathi. The visitors fell at the feet and requested the master to take back his disciple. 'As you please' was the reply from Ramanuja and Dasarathi returned after fulfilling the assignment his Guru had entrusted.

Kuresha saw that Ramanuja was instructing Dumb man to touch his holy feet by means of signs for salvation. Seeing the supreme grace, Kuresha repented 'Alas, If I were to be born a dumb, I would have deserved such precious free grace'.

During that time, the chola king the ruler, was a staunch followed of Shiva. He thought of imposing shaivism on all in his Kingdom. He had a proclamation that 'There is no God greater than Shiva' and got the signature of other faiths. Many signed out of fear and some for monetary gains. Naluran a minister of Chola and a disciple of Kuresha said "O King! It is futile. You should get the two signatures i.e. one of Kuresha and the other of Ramanuja. Then the entire Srivaishnavas shall embrace your faith'. Chola sent messengers to fetch Ramanuja forthwith.

When the King's men arrived Ramanuja was bathing Sensing the danger Kuresha donned the saffron Robes of Ramanuja and took the Tridanda (Staff and Pennant) and said to the King's men "I am Ramanuja,proceed". Mahapurna who saw the happenings followed Kuresha.

Ramanuja returned after bath, found his clothes and staff missing. Dasarathi told him and requested him to leave immediately. Ramanuja exclaimed in distress and prayed the Lord, and  left Sriraqngam with his disciples. They wondered in the forests and came to Mysore via Nilgiri Hills, Satyamangala. In the wilderness of Nilgiri, they met some forest men. The men seeing the Brahmins, said that they are the Disciples of Tirumalai Nallan Chakravarthi as old disciple of Ramanuja. They enquired about the welfare of their teacher and Ramanuja. The followers of Ramanuja told the forest men that this is Ramanuja. The men were happy to have the glimpse of their master, immediately escorted the group to Kattarai-vari a Brahmin residing nearby. The wife Chelanchalamba or Kongilpiratti prostrated and enquired about the whereabouts of these Brahmins. When she knew that they are the disciples of Ramanuja, she said "I too belong to him and narrated how she became his disciple. During the famine she and her husband moved to Srirangam and Ramanuja visited her residence for alms. She humbly said "While many a rich fall at your feet, how come you visit poor people for alms?" Ramanuja said "Daughter, I tell these men bits of news about God and they became my disciples". Then, 'Holy Father, am I not eligible to receive a little of it?' "surely" said Ramanuja and told me what was good to me, and blessed us with his sandals. The famine had gone and they returned to their native land. Though Ramanuja was in her very presence, she could not recognize him in the white robes and offered them food after serving to the holy sandals. When she learnt that Ramanuja was there her happiness knew no bounds. She brought her husband and requested Raamanuja to accept him in his Faith. Ramanuja did the relevant Samskara (Sacraments) and proceeded further towards Melkote near Mysore via Saligrama.

Ramanuja and his disciples arrived at Saligrama from Nilgiris. The place was dominated by the Shaivas who did not care for the new arrivals. Ramanuja advised Dasarathi to dip his feet in the pond where the villagers fetch drinking water and watch the effect. By the action the water was sanctified and many became the disciples of Ramanuja. This is maintained even today where installed the Holy feet of Ramanuja. The town deserves the name Saligrama the stone symbol of Vishnu said Ramanuja on account of this strange event. Of the many disciples who embraced this Faith Vaduhanambi or Andrapurna is also one to whom Ramanuja taught the essentials of this Faith.

From Saligrama Ramanuja went eastwards to Tondanur., then it was the capital of Hoysala-Ballala Kingdom, Bittideva or Vittala-Devaraya was the king. he had a daughter who was possessed by an evil spirit. All the efforts of the physicians and magicians were in vain. Tondanaur Nambi a Brahmin who lived by alms conveyed to Shantala, the queen that a Holy man Ramanuja had  arrived and is capable of relieving their daughter from the evil spirit. Accordingly the King and Queen invited Ramanuja and were overwhelmed with joy when their daughter was relieved of the evil spirit by the sprinkling of water from Ramanuja's holy feet. They embraced SriVaishnavism from the Jaina faith and Ramanuja named the King as 'Vishnuvardhana'. Later the king renovated many vaishnava temples and constructed five Narayana temples. It is said that about 12,000 jains marched to Narasimha temple where Ramanuja was residing and demanded an argument with them on religion and philosophy. 'Let it to be so' said Ramanuja. He commanded to raise a curtain between him and the jains, took the form of Adisesha and quelled the jains with his thousand heads answering all the questions. Many of the jains embraced this faith and became the disciples of Ramanuja. A tank was constructed at  Tondanur at the time of Ramanuja and now it is familiarly known as 'Moti-Talab'.

Thus Ramanuja expounded the profound truths and secured many disciples to his Faith at Narasimha Temple. At that time he ran short of 'Tiruman' or the holy white earth with which the Srivaishnavas are required to illumine their foreheads. Lord Narayana, seeing Ramanuja's concern, appeared in his dream and said 'I am waiting for your gracious arrival at Yadugiri, Come along, you will find the Tiruman too'. Ramanuja conveyed the dream to Vishunu vardhana and he sent his men along with Ramanuja. Ramanuja arrived at the hill and bathed in the pond 'Veda-puskariniu', wherein he lay aside Kuresha's white robes and put on his coloured robes of ascetics. The date of his entry chronicled as Year Bahudana, Month Tai of 1090 A.D. He installed the Tirunarayana Idol which lay covered under the anthill near Vakula Tree and a temple constructed  with the help of king Vishnuvardhana. He worshipped the Lord followed by a detail of ritual according to pancharathra thus re instating after ages of oblivion and the decade of saint Nammalwar beginning with 'Oru-Nayaka' (Tiruvaimozhi 5-1) was dedicated to this Lord. He also go the Tiruman for which he aspired for. The forest  at yadhugiri was cleared. Roads were formed in establishing a township and a series of festivals , fortnightly, monthly, annual were instituted. Ramanuja wanted a movable representative (Utsava Idol) to install the processions and Narayana appeared in dream and said 'RAMPRIYA' my processional image is with the Muslim king at Delhi, Ramanuja arrived at Delhi and requested the king to part with Ramapriya. When Ramanuja went to fetch, the Idol was with king's daughter. Ramanuja called Ramapriya. The image jumped down from the daughter's side and walked towards Ramanuja. Ramanuja embraced and named the image 'Selva-pillai' or 'Sampath Kumara'. The king witnessing the rare incident honoured Ramanuja with gifts and honours. The king's daughter could not bear the separation, followed Ramapriya to Melkote. Ramanuja installed the image of Ramapriya and instituted the regular pooja and processions round the year.

In theHindu society there exists the Chatur varna the 4 caste system viz., Brahman, Kshatriya, Vaishya and Sudhra. Beyond this are the panchamas are the paraiyas (the present schedule caste). Our Reformer named them the "Tirukulattar" or the 'Blessed-Descendents' and further allowed them the privilege of entering the Holy Temple. This practice is remaining in force even today in the temple in Srirangam, Melkote and Belur. They are allowed to bathe in the Holy ponds attached to the temples. Ramanuja opened the doors of religious instruction for these classes as well as certain modes of rituals peculiar to SriVaishnavas such as 'Pancha Samskara' or the Five Holy  Vaishnava Sacrants. Thus elevating the low classes socially and as regards their eligibility for salvation. Ramanuja confirmed what his predecessors had ordained Viz., the enshrinement of saints in the temple irrespective of the caste they might belong.

Ramanuja established a Mutt and the head a sanyasi will manage the affairs of the temple functions. Thus Ramanuja spent twelve years at Melkote instituting several social reforms and one day the messengers from Srirangam arrived at Melkote. They narrated in detail the happenings after his departure.

Kuresha and Mahapurna were summoned and Kuresha proclaimed with the Vedanta Texts about the Supremacy of Lord Narayana. But the king ordered to pluck the eyes. Kuresha and Mahapurna themselves removed their eyes and Mahapurna attained the heavenly abode not withstanding the pain. The followers of Ramanuja were never allowed inside the temple of Lord Ranganatha. The king chola had to suffer because of his misdeeds with Tumor in his throat (Krimi-Kanta chola familiarly called later) repented for all the misdeeds he did, and breathed his lost. During this period many teachers and disciples of Yamuna also attained Nitya-Vibhuti (Eternal abode) Gostipurna, Tirumalai Anandan, Tiru-Varanga Perumal Araiyar, Srisaila Purna and Kanchi Purna are some the Gurus of Ramanuja who attained the eternal abode. Ramanuja's sorrow was very much and his heart grieved to hear the happenings at Srirangam. He despatched   messengers to convey his condolences to Kuresha and engaged himself more vigorously than ever before on the Vedhanta which he delivered to his devoted disciples.

With the permission of Lord Thirunarayana he decided to leave Melkote and return to Srirangam. Ramanuja had established fifty officers (Iymbuttiruvar) for the  restored Fane to Lord Narayana. They could not bear the separation and Ramanuja said "Take heart sons, I shall let an image cast after my own likeness and leave it here with my power. It shall answer all your purposes. You should see to the proper discharge of all the sacred functions connected with Narayana". When he started, they followed him and said 'How can we be sure you are in the image? Ramanuja told them "Return to my image and call me by name. They ran and did so. The reply came from the image "yes I am here for ever". Thus convinced and with outburst of grief and gratitude, allowed Ramanuja to proceed towards Srirangam.

Arriving at Srirangam, Ramanuja took a holy dip at Kaveri did salutations to Lord Ranganatha ,went straight to Kuresha's abode. Kuresha knew of his master's arrival and heard the steps. He ran and fell at the feet of Ramanuja holding the feet, drenched then with the flood of his tears. Ramanuja was speechless lifted him up and embraced him. He could not control his emotions "Kuresha, you had given your Eye for the sake of our Faith, for the sake of your Acharya". All the disciples of his faith assembled and conveyed him the atrocities of kin chola who demolished many Srivaishnava temples. He had demolished the temple of Chithrukuta. He had torn up the image of Lord Govindaraja from his seat both the Mulavar and Uttsavar images  and directed to throw them into sea.

There was a courtesan by name Tilya or Tillai who is staunch Vaishnava devotee. She knew the intentions of Chola and kept him engaged in Dance and Succeeded in diverting the attention of king Chola. This enabled the SriVaishnavas adherents to secretly transport idols of Govindaraja   to Tirupathi. Ramanuja heard all vandalistic tale with a troubled heart and hot tears rolled down his cheeks. He answered the disciples that he shall set it right. His compassion for Tilya who succeeded in helping to preserve the Idol was great and he blessed her. Then he went to Tiruppathi with his disciples and installed Govindaraja at the foot of the hill and name the Lord as Tillai-Govindaraja.

After the demise of Krimikanta chola his son Kulottunga Chola, who was against the demolishing of Vaishnava temples approached Ramanuja and craved for pardon for his father's faults. Ramanuja granted him and asp per his request took him to this Faith. The king gave up the control over all SriVaishnava temples and surrendered to Ramanuja.

Ramanuja was bent upon regaining the eyesight of Kuresha, Kuresha said that he did not desire the material sight. Kuresha was commanded to pray Lord Varada. As directed by the Acharya, Kuresha composed a verse. Varada appeared and enquired as to what he wants? Kuresha requested that my disciple Naluran be saved (the person who informed Chola to get the signature of Kuresha and Mahapurna). His wish granted.

Again Ramanuja said to pray the Lord and this time Kuresha aspired to see the beauty of the Lord. Ramanuja accompanied Kuresha to the Holy presence of the All mighty and prayed. Lord Varada told the humble Ramanuja that Kuresha will see the Lord i.e. himself and his Acharya i.e. Ramanuja.

Once while Ramanuja engaged his disciples in the reading of Saint Andal's composition the 'Nachiyrar Thirumozhi 9-6-7, in which Andal declares that she will place one hundred vessels of nectarous food before the Lord Sundara-raja of Thirumalirunsolai, if he came down and ate it all, she would provide more. Ramanuja stopped at this and said let us proceed to the Holy shrine, and carry out her wish and did accordingly. From Thirumalinunsolai, Ramanuja went to Srivilliputhur the birth place of Saint Andal. The saintess was very happy that Ramanuja fulfilled her wish like an elder brother doing it for his sister, conferred as title as Koil-Annan (i.e brother of Andal).

From Sri-Villiputhur Ramanuja proceeded to Tirunagiri of Saint Nammalwar and from there to Tirukkolur, the birth place of Madhurakavi-Alwar. On his way he met "Thirukkolur-Ammai" a lady and asked her, where are you coming from? she answered 'From Tirukkolur'. To this Ramanuja chidingly 'I wonder, you are coming out of such a holy place, wherein everyone should enter as per the verses of Saint Nammalwar.' To this Ammai replied, 'Holy Sir, who am I to deserve to live in such a holy place? for she did not do any good things, offered prayers at the feet of Lord and so forth. On hearing a detailed confession of not doing any holy things, Ramanuja was thunderstruck and accompanied her to Tirukkolur , rested under her roof, admiring her spiritual enlightenment took her as his disciple. Then returned to Srirangam.

Ramanuja was delighted to see the clothes and garments of Lord Ranganatha washed very cleanly. he took the washer man to Lord Ranganatha and told that the Lord how nicely the washer man had discharged his duties. Lord Ranganatha accepted the loving services of the washer man. To this day it is the custom of the Lord to receive the clothes just as he brings them thought the washer man is of low-caste.

Pattini-perumal was a disciple of Ramanuja who is of low caste who always drowned himself in the joy of singing the hymns of Azhwars. Ramanuja while returning to Temple after bath at kaveri heard the song and entered the hut of the low-caste but spiritually enlightened, Pattini-Perumal and blessed him.

Thus the community of Srivaishnavas was not confined exclusively to the Brahmins. It was catholic and entertained in its fold every man and woman regardless of caste, creed, colour or sect.

The king of ascetics, Ramanuja had in his followers, seven hundred Yatis (ascetics) seventy four (Episcopal) Thrones known as Acharya Purushas and countless others. Twelve thousand Ekangis (monks of all classes) three hundred Kotti-ammals (nuns) many kings and other both Holy Threaded and the Threadless (Shattadavars)

Andhra purna entered into Ramanuja's fold at Saligrama ( as we had seen earlier) was a staunch follower of Ramanuja. he considered that there is no God other than Ramanuja.

As we know this disciple of Ramanuja settled at Tiruppathi in the service of Lord Srinivasa. Once he began excavating  a small reservoir for water required for his flower garden. Though he was of ripe age his enthusiasm was great. A Bramacharin came to assist him. He refused to accept the boy's service. His wife who was pregnant was advised to assist him. The bramacharin again assisted his wife. Ananthacharya who was surprised about his wife emptying the mud basket so fast, enquired and came to know the Bramacharin's assistance. He was enraged and hit the boy under the chin. The boy fled. But the temple authorities found that Lord Srinivasa was bleeding in the chin. Anantharya realized that the bramacharin was none other than Lord Srinivasa. The temple authorities stuffed the wound with camphor and that is done even on this day.

Once Anantharya visiting his native country, on the way, opened the lunch box  and found some ants. He cried O! what a sin I have committed! These best Saints have desired to live on the Holy Hill and I a sinner, depriving these ants of their holy abode, returned to Tiruppathi and released them carefully on the hill. Such was the thinking of these saints who see God in anything and everything

Ramanuja Vaibhavam Samapthaha:

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