Vedanta Desika

Vedanta Desika 2019 stamp of India

Vedanta Desika (1268–1369), also known as Swami Desikan or Desika Prabhu, was a prominent Vaishnava saint, philosopher, poet, and Acharya (teacher) in the Sri Vaishnavism tradition of Hinduism. His contributions to Indian spiritual and philosophical thought are highly regarded, and he is celebrated for his devotional poetry, scholarly works, and establishment of temple rituals. Vedanta Desika played a pivotal role in expounding the Vishishtadvaita (qualified non-dualism) philosophy of Ramanuja, making significant contributions to its literature and practice.

Life

Vedanta Desika was born in 1268 in Thoopul, near Kanchipuram, in present-day Tamil Nadu, India. He was a descendant of a long line of scholars and devotees. From a young age, Desika displayed a prodigious intellect and deep spiritual inclination. He was trained in the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, and other sacred texts, as well as in various branches of philosophy and arts under the tutelage of learned scholars of his time.

Works

Vedanta Desika authored over 120 works in Sanskrit, Tamil, and Prakrit, covering a wide range of subjects such as philosophy, poetry, drama, and ethics. Among his most notable works are the Shrimad Rahasya Traya Saram, which encapsulates the essence of three secret doctrines of Sri Vaishnavism, the Paduka Sahasram, a poetic tribute to the sandals of Lord Vishnu, and the Hayagriva Stotram, a hymn in praise of Lord Hayagriva, the deity of knowledge and wisdom.

Philosophy

Vedanta Desika is renowned for his staunch advocacy of the Vishishtadvaita philosophy, which posits that the soul, while distinct, is inseparable from the Supreme Being, Vishnu, and that ultimate liberation (moksha) is achieved through the grace of Vishnu, facilitated by an individual's devotion and surrender to Him. Desika's philosophical writings, particularly his commentaries on the works of Ramanuja, have been instrumental in clarifying and disseminating the principles of Sri Vaishnavism.

Legacy

Vedanta Desika's legacy is preserved in the numerous temples dedicated to Vishnu across India, where his works are recited and celebrated. His life and teachings continue to inspire millions of followers worldwide. Annual festivals and commemorations are held in his honor, particularly in the towns of Kanchipuram and Srirangam, where he spent significant parts of his life.

See Also

• Ramanuja
• Vaishnavism
• Sri Vaishnavism
• Vishishtadvaita