About Us

History of Sri Raghavendra Swamy

Shri Raghavendra Swamy, born as "Venkathanaatha" in 1595 AD (Phalguna Shuddha Saptami) to Thimmannacharya and Gopikamba, was a divine child blessed by Lord Venkateshwara. A brilliant scholar, he studied under Sri Sudhendra Theertha at Kumbakonam and mastered the Vedas, later engaging in philosophical debates and writing commentaries. Despite financial hardships, he remained dedicated to learning and devotion. Married to Saraswathi Bai, he struggled with poverty but eventually took refuge in his Guru’s Mutt. Recognizing his wisdom and spiritual depth, Sri Sudhendra Theertha chose him as his successor. After deep contemplation, Venkathanatha renounced worldly life, took Sanyasa, and was named Guru Raghavendra Theertha. Heartbroken, his wife Saraswathi died tragically and was later granted Moksha by his divine grace.

He performed enumerous miracles and guided countless devotees. At the age of 78, he announced his decision to enter Brindavana at Mantralaya, where he would remain in a yogic state for 700 years. On the auspicious day of Shraavana Bahula Dwiteeya, in 1671 AD, he entered Brindavana while continuing his Japa, as Vedic hymns filled the air. His disciple Appanacharya, overwhelmed with emotion, composed a hymn in his praise, which Guru Rayaru completed from within the Brindavana. To this day, he is regarded as "Kaliyuga Kaamadhenu Kalpavruksha" and protects his devotees, answering their prayers in all times.

The Legacy of Sri Raghavendra Swamy

Sri Raghavendra Swamy established the Mantralayam Matha in Andhra Pradesh, which remains a sacred pilgrimage site. He composed several philosophical works that continue to inspire scholars and devotees alike. His teachings emphasize devotion (Bhakti), righteousness (Dharma), and the importance of surrendering to God’s will.

One of the most remarkable aspects of his life was his Jeeva Samadhi—Sri Raghavendra Swamy entered Brindavana (a form of Samadhi) alive at Mantralayam, where he continues to bless devotees to this day. His miracles, teachings, and influence remain strong, guiding millions on the path of faith and wisdom.

His literary works include:

1.Veda Traya Vivruti – Commentaries on all three Vedas.
2.Mantrartha Manjari – Commentary on the first 3 Adhyayas of Rig Veda.
3.Purushasooktadi Panchasookta Vyakhyana – Glosses on six key Sooktas.
4.Khandarthas– Word-by-word meaning for 9 Upanishads.
5.Geetartha Sangraha (Geeta-Vivrutti) – Commentary on the Bhagavad Gita.
6.Prameya Deepika Vyakhya – Commentary on Madhvacharya’s Geeta Bhashya.
7.Geeta Tatparya Teeka Vivarana – Commentary on Jayateertha’s work on Madhva’s Geeta Tatparya.
8.Tatparya Chandrika – Explanation of Brahma Sutras, Nyayasudha, and Chandrika.
9.Nyaya Muktavali – Exposition on Brahma-Sutra Adhikaranas.
10.Tattva Manjari – Detailed exposition of Madhvacharya’s Anubhashya.
11.Tattvaprakashika Bhavadeepa – Commentary on Jayateertha’s Tatvaprakashika.
12.Nyaya-Sudha-Parimala – Famous commentary on Nyayasudha, earning Rayaru the title Parimalacharya.
13.Tippani on Dasha Prakaranas – Glosses on six of Madhvacharya’s Prakaranas.
14.Rama Charitrya Manjari – Highlights of Rama Avatara.
15.Krishna Charitrya Manjari – Highlights of Krishna Avatara.
16.Mahabharata Tatparya Nirnaya Bhava Sangraha – One-verse summaries of each Adhyaya of Acharya Madhva’s Mahabharata Tatparya Nirnaya.
17.Vadavalee Vyakhya – Commentary on Jayateertha’s Vadavali.
18.Chandrika Vyakhya – Commentary on Vyasa Teertha’s Tatparya Chandrika.
19.Tarkatandava Vyakhya – Commentary on Vyasa Teertha’s Tarkatandava.
20.Pramana Padhati Vyakhya – Commentary on Jayateertha’s Pramana Padhati.
21.Anu-Madhva Vijaya Vyakhya – Commentary on Narayana Panditacharya’s Anumadhvavijaya.
22.Pratah Sankalpa Gadya – A very inspiring prose to recited in the morning as a resolution to perform the day’s activities.
23.Sarva Samarpana Gadya –A very inspiring prose to recited in the night to submit the day’s activities to the Lord. Goes along with Pratah Sankalpa Gadya.
24.Nyaya Deepika – Not available, commentary on Acharya Madhva’s Geeta Tatparya.
25.Bhatta Sangraha – Commentary on Jaimini’s Mimamsa Sutras from the Bhatta school perspective.

Our Mission

पूज्याय राघवेन्द्राय सत्यधर्मरताय च ।
भजतां कल्पवृक्षाय नमतां कामधेनवे ॥

Preservation and Promulgation of Satyadharma

Sri Sri Raghavendra Swamiji is popularly known as Satyadharmarata - The one who always engaged himself in the Dharma of Satya. Satya is none other than Vishnu and his Dharma means Vaishnava Dharma. The endeavor of this organization remains in adopting the best customs and practices of Vaishnava Dharma, inculcating them in the younger generations by standing an example in front of them.

Provide a platform for retention of customs and practices of Vaishnava Dharma

It is difficult in this concrete jungle of Bangalore to adopt and practice the customs of Vaishnava Dharma in one's own houses, more so in the cases of flats where the community living puts its own limitations. This organization intends to provide an opportunity to such people to perform their religious practices of Vaishnava customs at the Muth premises to preserve the heritage.

Kaamadhenu and Kalpavriksha

While Sri Sri Raghavendra Swamiji is renowned for his generous blessings to all his devotees irrespective of religion, caste or creed, this organization intends to provide a platform to unite them all as one family and one unit through its activities of Thursday and other special occasions.

Door to the huge world of Philosophical Knowledge

Sri Sri Raghavendra Swamiji has spent best of his time during his lifetime in teaching Sri Madhwa Philosophy and his contribution to the said philosophy through his independent works and commentaries are of immense value. The Muth will endeavor to impart the said invaluable knowledge to the deserving through pravachanas and tutorials.

Go seva

It is intended to take care of old and destitute cows as part of the long term plans.

Our Values

Devotion

Serving Sri Raghavendra Swamy with utmost reverence.

Inclusivity

Welcoming everyone seeking spiritual growth.

Education

Promoting the teachings of Sri Raghavendra Swamy.

Community

Fostering a sense of belonging among devotees.

Service

Giving back to society through charitable works.

Anjanapura Sri Raghavendra Swami Seva Samithi(R.) is a religious organization intended to serve Guru Rayaru with atmost reverence. We are dedicated to uphold and spread the timeless values of Sanatana Dharma. Rooted in the divine teachings of Sri Sri Raghavendra Swamy, we strive to promote spiritual growth, devotion, and service to society through various religious initiatives. The organization serves as a sacred space for devotees to engage in bhakti (devotion), jnana (knowledge), and seva (selfless service). We regularly conduct Vedic rituals, discourses, and cultural programs, fostering a deep connection with our spiritual heritage. Guided by the principles of Dwaita Vedanta, as propounded by Sri Madhvacharya, our mission is to uphold the glory of Guru Raghavendra Swamy while inspiring individuals to lead a life of righteousness, compassion, and faith. We invite all devotees to join us in our efforts to preserve and propagate the rich traditions of Sanatana Dharma, seek divine blessings, and serve the community with devotion and modesty.

Get Involved

The Anjanapura Sri Raghavendra Swamy Temple Trust thrives on the contributions of our devotees. Join us in making a difference:

Volunteering: Contribute your time and skills to temple operations and events.
Donating: Support our mission with financial contributions.
Spreading the Word: Share information about the temple with your community.

Have any queries? Contact us.

About Sri Raghavendra Swamy Temple Trust