Tributes to Shri Vidyādhirāja Tīrtha Shripāda Vader on the occasion of Dwitīya Ārādhanā Mahōtsav

 

Shri Vidyādhirāja Tīrtha Shripāda Vader, the illustrious pontiff of Shri Gokarna Parthagali Jeevothama Matha, held the esteemed position as one of the prominent spiritual leaders of the Gowd Sāraswat Brāhmin community. With unwavering devotion to Shri Rāma Vithala, he guided his disciples on the path of righteousness, tirelessly striving for the welfare of all beings. Through his teachings, he instilled in his disciples a deep sense of responsibility towards society and a fervent desire to contribute positively to its upliftment.

Shri Rāghavendra Ācharya was born on the day of Shrāvana Chaturdashi in Dhanishtā Nakshatra which falls on the 23rd of August 1945 in the Gregorian calendar. He was the second son of Shri Senāpura Lakshminārayanācharya and Shrimati Ācharya from Gangolli. Shri Dwārakanath Tīrtha  Shripada Vader, the twenty second pontiff in the lineage of Gokarna Matha, initiated Shri Rāghavendra Ācharya to Sanyasa with Āshramanāma of Shri Vidyādhirāja Tīrtha Shripāda Vader on the auspicious day of Māgha Krishna Dwadashi of Parabhava nama samvatsara corresponding to 26th February 1967 at the Wadāla Shri Rāma Mandir in Mumbai. 

After receiving initiation (deeksha), Shri Swāmiji immersed himself in the study and understanding of scriptures and philosophy. Shri Swāmiji dedicated himself wholeheartedly to this pursuit, while Guru Swāmiji eagerly facilitated his disciple's acquisition of spiritual knowledge. Guru Swāmiji spent time teaching and engaging Shri Swāmiji in discussions, posing questions to gauge his comprehension of the subjects. This mutual interaction and learning continued for six years, during which the bond between Guru and Shishya deepened.

On 25th of March, 1973, Guru Swāmiji attained Mukti, leaving the responsibility of the deities, the Samsthān,  and all the assets of the Math in the capable hands of Shri Swāmiji and on 5th of April, 1973, at the Math's headquarters in Partagāli, Shri Swāmiji ascended the Peetha. This event held great significance, as it coincided with the date of 25th March, which marked the establishment of Shri Gokarn Math by Shri Nārayana Tīrtha Swāmiji, the First Yati, in the year 1475.

Amidst the daily rituals, fasting, and festivals, Shri Swāmiji diligently pursued his studies, keeping Guru Swāmiji's aspirations in mind. He found time to delve into the scriptures and other holy books, never losing sight of his Guru's desire. In addition to his responsibilities of guiding disciples and followers, Shri Swāmiji took on the significant task of renovating and reconstructing various branches of the Math, including the main headquarters and all the temples associated with the Math.

Over a span of 25 years, until July 4th, 1998, Shri Swāmiji dedicated himself to mastering various subjects. He became proficient in Sanskrit language, Veda, Vedanta, Jyotishya, Kāvya, Sāhitya, Mimāmsa, and Tarka. Additionally, he extensively studied the Magnum Opus of Shri Jaya Teertha Shrimaccharana, Shriman Nyāya Sudha. On July 4th, 1998, in the august presence of Shri Vidyamānya Tīrth Swāmiji of Shri Palimāru Math in Kalyānpur near Udupi, Shri Swāmiji performed the formal conclusion ceremony (Mangala) for Shriman Nyāya Sudha.

Upon reading the captivating travelog composed in verse by the illustrious 3rd Pontiff of Shri Gokarn Math, Shri Jīvotham Teerth Swāmiji, detailing the pilgrimage to Kshetras, a deep longing awakened within Shri Swāmiji. The descriptions of the sacred sites left an indelible impression on his heart, particularly the enchanting Dāmodar Kund in Nepāl, one of the revered Great Kshetras. The desire to embark on this sacred journey grew stronger with each passing day. Driven by this inner calling, Shri Swāmiji resolved to undertake the pilgrimage to Dāmodar Kund, Shri Swāmiji set forth on this expedition, amidst the chilling cold of the Himālayan mountain range, covering a distance of 370 kilometers on foot to reach the sacred Dāmodar Kund in Nepāl. Along this arduous journey, he ventured through numerous treacherous terrains, exploring remote and inaccessible regions.

Shri Swāmiji devoted his entire life to the noble mission of spreading the profound mantra "Rāma" among the masses. Although this mantra may be the smallest in terms of syllables, its significance surpasses all others, earning it the title of the "Tāraka" mantra. The beauty of this mantra lies in its universality, as it can be chanted by anyone, irrespective of their age, caste or community. It transcends all barriers and requirements, for it does not necessitate initiation, a specific time, or a designated place, inviting people from all walks of life to chant it and experience its transformative effects.

Driven by this life-time mission, Shri Swāmiji organized two successful Shri Rāma Nāma Japa Yajnas. The first took place during the Dasara Festival in 1997 at Shri Rāma Mandir in Mumbai Wadāla, and the second was held at the Math's Headquarters in Partagāli, Goa, consisting of a massive yajna with a cumulative chanting of 100 crores by devotees. These events were a celebration of the 525th year (2000 A.D.) since the establishment of Shri Gokarna Math. The third Japa Yajna, known as the Vishwa Shanti Mahāyāga, spanned ten days from November 28th to December 7th, 2008. This yajna involved 100 crores of written japas and was dedicated to world peace. However, unlike the previous events, it took place in the lesser-known village of Harigram, located 5 kilometers away from Panvel S.T stand in New Mumbai.

On the auspicious day of Magha Shuddha Trayodashi, which fell on February 9, 2017, Shri Udaya Sharmā, a Brahmachāri was initiated to sanyasa by Shri Swamiji and was bestowed with the name Shri Vidyādhīsha Tīrtha Shripāda Vader. Being entrusted with the responsibility of being the successor and instilled with the knowledge of all disciplines. With a firm resolve, he was prepared to lead and efficiently manage the affairs of the Math, ensuring its smooth functioning and progress. His unwavering commitment to Math's activities and his proficiency in various disciplines laid a strong foundation for his forthcoming role.

During Shri Swāmiji's tenure, he tirelessly conducted teachings and discourses on Mādhva philosophy, nurturing the knowledge and spiritual growth of his disciples. He bestowed upon them the sacred rituals of Vaishnavism, including the revered Tapta Mudradhāran, and guided them in various spiritual practices. With the noble intention of guiding his followers towards a prosperous life, he shared profound wisdom and provided unwavering guidance to millions of disciples.

Shri Swāmiji's unwavering devotion was exemplified by his observance of over 50 Chāturmāsya Vratas, marking each occasion with utmost dedication and reverence. Moreover, he undertook the Chāturmāsya vrata twice in the divine abode of Lord Badari Narāyana in Badri, adding to the magnificence of his spiritual journey. In an extraordinary feat within the lineage of all Mādhva Mathas, he also embraced the profound vow of silence, known as Kāshta Mauna Vrata, during his stay in Badari.

Through his remarkable achievements and deep spiritual practices, Shri Swāmiji left an indelible impact on the lives of his disciples, inspiring them to lead lives rooted in faith, knowledge, and devotion. On the auspicious day of Shuddha Dashami in the month of Āshada of the Plava Nāma Samvatsara, which corresponds to 19th July 2021, our beloved Shri Swāmiji attained Haripāda, the divine abode of Shri Hari. Shri Swāmiji, a true embodiment of devotion and selflessness, is a guiding light for us all. His legacy serves as a reminder of the transformative power of knowledge and the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of many. As we reflect upon his life and teachings, let us strive to emulate his noble virtues and carry forward his mission of spreading love, compassion, and spiritual enlightenment. His departure marked the culmination of a life dedicated to spiritual wisdom, selfless service, and the upliftment of countless souls. The legacy of Shri Swāmiji's teachings and his tireless efforts to disseminate the essence of Mādhva philosophy will continue to inspire generations to come.

May the blessings and grace of Shri Swāmiji continue to guide us on our spiritual journeys, as we cherish his memory and carry forward the torch of his teachings, spreading love, compassion, and wisdom in the world. Let us remain steadfast in our devotion, remembering the teachings that he lovingly shared. Through our adherence to the righteous path and our commitment to continuous learning, we can strive to manifest the profound wisdom he bestowed upon us. May the divine presence of Shri Vidyādhīesha Tītha Shripāda Vader continue to guide and bless us, as we humbly walk on the path of righteousness, seeking eternal knowledge and liberation.

श्रीविद्याधिराजतीर्थ गुर्वन्तर्गत श्रीमध्वेशकृष्णार्पणमस्तु

✍️- M Ashutosh Prabhu