Mantralaya-2022

(Sri Raghavendra Swamy visit to Udupi Sri Krishna part 2)

Date : Dec 25, 2024


Dear Devotees : Namaskara.

| Sri MannMoolaRamastu Mannmathe Moolamahasamsthhaana Mantralaya Sri Rayaramathe||
|| OM SRI RAGHAVENDRAAYA NAMAHA||

Background

Part 2 of Sri Raghavendra Swamy visit to Udupi Sri Krishna is described in Mantralaya (2022).

Meaning

In the previous article, we delved into the sanctity of Udupi, uncovering the divine history of the revered Krishna idol, the sacred Madhva Sarovara, and the grand procession that marked the arrival of Sri Raghavendra Swamy to this holy town.

Now, let us dive deeper into the spiritual story and explore the special and divine connection between Sri Raghavendra Swamy and Lord Sri Krishna.

After the grand and joyous procession, all the Ashta Mutt (eight mutt) Swamijis warmly welcomed Sri Rayaru to the Sri Krishna Temple. Sri Raghavendra Swamy entered the sacred Sri Krishna Temple in Udupi. As Rayaru stepped into the divine sanctum, a mystical melody seemed to fill the air—it was as if the celestial music of Lord Krishna's flute was gently resonating through the temple, touching the deepest corners of his soul.As Sri Raghavendra Swamy bowed in reverence before the enchanting idol of Sri Balakrishna, depicting the Lord as a young boy holding a churning rod, his heart was overcome with devotion. When Rayaru opened his eyes after offering his prayers, a miraculous vision unfolded before him—Sri Krishna, in his youthful and playful form, was smiling warmly at him, radiating divine grace and love.

This profound spiritual experience deeply moved Sri Raghavendra Swamy. Rayaru felt an irresistible pull to remain in the sacred town of Udupi, surrounded by the divine presence of Lord Krishna. Filled with devotion and a sense of divine purpose, Sri Rayaru decided to extend his stay in Udupi, making it a significant chapter in his spiritual journey.

Each day, Sri Raghavendra Swamy immersed himself in profound discussions, spirited debates, and enlightening teachings centered on Lord Krishna and the divine philosophy of Acharya Madhwaru. The sacred atmosphere of Udupi rekindled vivid memories of his previous incarnation as Sri Vyasa Rajaru, during which he had performed extensive and heartfelt worship of Sri Krishna. These memories, intertwined with his present devotion, created a deep spiritual resonance within him.

In alignment with the divine will of Sri Krishna and Sri Vidya Laxmi, Sri Raghavendra Swamy devoted his time in Udupi to creating some of his most significant literary contributions. During this sacred period, he meticulously composed monumental works such as Tantra Deepika, Nyaya Muktavali, Parimala and Chandrika Prakasha.

Sudha Parimala explores the essence of Dvaita philosophy in a way that is both deep and accessible. This work serves as a refined and simplified adaptation of Nyaya Sudha, the famous commentary by Jayateertharu on Madhwacharya's Anu Vyakhyana. Through Sudha Parimala, Sri Raghavendra Swami presents complex philosophical concepts with clarity, guiding scholars and spiritual seekers toward a deeper understanding of the core principles of Dvaita Vedanta.

Our 22nd Pontiff H.H. Shri Vaadeendrateertharu in Guruguna Stavana has described Parimala as

||  Dheera Shri Raghavendratvadutala Rasanaaranga Nrutyat Swayambhoo
    Yoshaadhammill Bhaarashlathha Kusumtateestwadgirasangiramaha
    Yaabhissammishritaabhbhirniravadhivasudhaa Vishrutaa Saa Sudhaapi
    Kshonee Geevaaranagamyam Parimalam Atulam Saampratam Sampraede ||

The meaning of above is , Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and wisdom was searching for a perfect place to perform her celestial dance. She chose the tongue of Sri RaghavendraTeertharu, recognizing it as the ideal stage for her divine expression.As she danced, the flowers from her crown fell onto Sri Rayaru’s tongue. These flowers symbolize the profound wisdom and knowledge that blossomed into "Parimala", a masterpiece of philosophy and spiritual insight.This poetic description highlights Parimala not just as a literary work but as a divine blessing—a reflection of Sri Raghavendra Swami's extraordinary gift of channeling Saraswati’s grace into his words, creating an everlasting legacy of knowledge and devotion.

All these works were not just scholarly writings but heartfelt offerings to Lord Krishna, created under the divine guidance of Bharati-Ramana-Mukhyaprana (Vayu Devaru), the eternal servant of the Lord in Udupi.

Rayaru’s time in Udupi was a blend of deep spiritual practice, insightful composition, and dedicated teaching. His commitment to sharing the wisdom of Dvaita Vedanta shone brightly through his extensive discourses on Chandrika, which Sri Rayaru completed over ten times during his stay. Each session was a wellspring of knowledge, enlightening the minds and hearts of scholars and devotees who traveled from far and wide to learn from the revered saint.Every day, Sri RaghavendraTeertharu would immerse himself in a profound state of Samadhi through deep meditation. In this divine transcendence, he would be enveloped by the celestial melody of a flute and the gentle, rhythmic jingling of anklets (Gajje) adorning sacred feet, resonating with heavenly grace.

One afternoon, Sri Raghavendra Swami (Sri Rayaru) decided to sit before Lord Krishna and enter a state of deep inner meditation. Immersing himself in prayer to Sri Krishna, Sri Rayaru transcended into a divine trance. In this sublime state, Sri Rayaru witnessed Lord Krishna manifest within his heart and saw Sri Krishna clearly through his inner eyes. But just as swiftly as Sri Krishna appeared, He vanished.

Filled with longing, Sri Rayaru opened his eyes, yearning for another glimpse of the Lord. With a heart full of devotion, Sri Rayaru prayed fervently, expressing his desire to see Sri Krishna again. In response, Sri Rayaru heard the melodious sound of anklets (Gajje) jingling and the sweet notes of a divine flute. Before him, Sri Rayaru saw the tiny, resplendent feet of Sri Bala Krishna. Overwhelmed with devotion, Sri Rayaru could only see Krishna’s feet and, with folded hands, asked, “Oh Lord, what is this divine Leela?”

In a surge of divine inspiration, Sri Rayaru began playing his Veena while singing the song "Indu Enege Ni Govinda." This enchanting song, overflowing with devotion and spiritual insight, filled the atmosphere with divine energy. With his eyes closed, Sri Rayaru continued to play the Veena as Krishna joyfully danced to the melody, playing His flute.

When the son ended, Sri Rayaru opened his eyes and beheld the radiant form of Sri Krishna before him. The childlike Krishna, in His playful demeanor, said, “You have played the Veena for so long and made Me dance. Now My feet are tired.”

Tears streamed from Sri Rayaru’s eyes as he lovingly held Krishna’s divine feet. With a voice choked with emotion, he said, “Oh merciful Lord! You are the omnipotent and omnipresent protector of all the fourteen worlds. How can Your feet be tired? I am but Your humble servant. Please, bless me by placing Your feet on me.”

With deep devotion, Sri Rayaru gently placed Krishna’s feet on his lap and lovingly massaged them. Lord Krishna smiled and said, “Now the tiredness in My feet is gone.”

Rayaru, his heart brimming with devotion, prayed, “Oh Lord, may You bless me always.” Sri Krishna replied, “I am always with you. Through the ages, you have been My devotee—as Prahlada, Bhalika, Vyasa Tirtha, and now as Sri Raghavendra. Whatever you ask of Me, I shall always grant.”

"Indu Enege Ni Govinda" is a soulful Kannada composition, brimming with devotion and profound spiritual wisdom. This heartfelt hymn stands as a treasured gem in the illustrious tradition of Hari Dasa literature, embodying the spirit of surrender and boundless love for the divine Lord.

Later, In a remarkable and divine moment, Lord Krishna expressed his wish for Sri Raghavendra Swamy to create an exquisite idol of Gopala Krishna. Humbly abiding by the Lord's desire, Sri Raghavendra Swamy oversaw the meticulous crafting of this sacred idol. Once completed, he lovingly placed the Gopala Krishna idol before Lord Sri Krishna, offering it as a token of devotion. In response, Lord Krishna bestowed his divine blessings upon Sri Raghavendra Swamy, affirming the sanctity of the act.

This blessed idol, known as Santana Gopala Krishna, has been revered and worshipped ever since, becoming a symbol of divine grace and continuity. From the time of Sri Raghavendra Swamy to the current pontiff, Sri SubhudendraTeertharu, the unbroken tradition of worshipping this sacred idol stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of devotion and the divine bond between Sri Krishna and his devotee.

The idol of Santana Gopala Krishna is revered for its immense divine power, offering solace and blessings to devotees in their times of need. At the Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mutt, three sacred Yantras are placed at the feet of this idol, each designed to address specific aspects of life:

Sarva Siddhi Yantra: Grants the fulfillment of all desires, bringing prosperity and success.Santana Yantra: Blesses those yearning for the joy of parenthood, aiding couples seeking children. Bhiti Yantra: Helps devotees overcome depression, fear, and negative energy, bringing peace and mental strength.

The current pontiff, Sri SubhudendraTeertharu, channels the divine power of Santana Gopala Krishna to ensure these Yantras serve their purpose effectively. The blessings of the Lord, combined with the sanctity of the Yantras, have led to countless miracles. Devotees have shared testimonies of their lives transforming—achieving cherished goals, experiencing the bliss of parenthood, and finding relief from darkness and negativity—after accepting and venerating these Yantras. This enduring tradition continues to be a source of hope, faith, and divine intervention for all who seek the grace of Santana Gopala Krishna.

Sri Raghavendra Swamy’s stay in Udupi was nothing short of mesmerizing. Saints, scholars, and devotees from far and wide gathered in his presence, considering themselves incredibly fortunate to be in the same room as the great Sri Raghavendra Swamy and the divine Udupi Krishna. Sri Rayaru’s every word and action radiated profound spiritual energy, inspiring awe and devotion among all who encountered him.

The culmination of his stay in Udupi was marked by the grand celebration of Rama Navami, an event that reflected the sanctity and magnificence of the Matha. This sacred festival was conducted with unparalleled grandeur, befitting the glory of the Sri Moola Rama Icon, which Sri Raghavendra Swamy revered with utmost devotion. The festival became a spectacle of spiritual and cultural splendor, drawing devotees from Udupi and the surrounding regions. The entire town came alive with the sound of hymns, chants, and heartfelt prayers, creating an atmosphere of pure bliss and devotion. For the people of Udupi, it was a celestial event, an unforgettable experience etched in their hearts forever.

During one of his deep meditative states, Sri Hari appeared to Sri Raghavendra Swamy in the divine forms of both Sri Rama and Sri Krishna, radiating boundless grace. The Lord blessed Sri Rayaru, expressing his eternal presence with him and acknowledging the immense social and spiritual service Rayaru had undertaken to uphold dharma and humanity. Sri Hari’s divine words reassured Rayaru of his everlasting support and love, a moment of transcendental union that further solidified Rayaru’s purpose and dedication.

This divine encounter, coupled with the grandeur of the Rama Navami celebrations, became the crowning jewel of Sri Raghavendra Swamy’s stay in Udupi—a time that continues to inspire and resonate in the hearts of devotees to this day.

Udupi is more than just a place—it’s an experience that touches the heart and nourishes the soul. It’s a town where nature and spirituality come together, offering rest to the weary and inspiration to the seeker. Here, the grace of Sri Madhwacharya, Sri Vadirajaru, Sri Raghavendra Swamiji and the blessings of Lord Krishna can be felt in every breath, reminding us of the divine presence in our lives. For those who have not yet experienced it, Udupi stands ready to welcome you with its timeless beauty, peace, and grace.

The devotion towards Sri Raghavendrateertharu is the ultimate truth and is the most simple and effective way to reach Sri Hari  - "NAMBI KETTAVARILLAVO EE GURUGALA"! “Those who have complete faith in this Guru will never be disappointed.”

   || BICHALI JAPADAKATTI SRI APPANACHARYA PRIYA MANTRALAYA
   SRI RAGHAVENDRATEERTHA GURUBHYO NAMAHA||