PRAKRITAM AZHAGIYA SINGHAR, OUR ACHARYA, FRIEND, PHILOSOPHER AND GUIDE ======================================================By Anbil Ramaswamy, President “Swami Desika Darsana Satsangam” (SDDS) and Editor & publisher, “Sri Ranga Sri” (SRS) Electronic Journal======================================================SWAMI’s BIRTHOur Swami was born in the Tirumalai Nallaan Chakravarti Vamsam which follows in letter and spirit the chores of Oupaasanam, Anna roopa VaiswadEvam and are “Brahmavidaam VarishTaas” as defined by Bashyakarar.

Sri Narasimha Tatachar and Smt. Ranganaayaki Ammaal were the blessed parents. Sri Narayanachar, (Swami’s elder brother) was born to them as the 2nd son on 15th August 1916 and our Swami was born as the 6th son to them on 12th December 1926 in Pazhzaveri Taluk, Villivalam village in North Arcot District in the year Akshaya month Kartigai and in the UttiraTTaadi Nakshatram.

Since, the Prakritam Jeeyar is very much available for verification and corroboration of the facts; I have to state the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I have also documentary evidence of exchange of letters with him to substantiate any claims.

EDUCTION` He graduated as “Nyaaya SirOmaNi” from the Madras University. securing a first class · While at a junior level, he answered queries set by TirukOshTiyur Swami for senior level on “Yathaartha Jnaanam” as per Deepikai and Prakaasikai.· During an inspection, DEvanaar viLaagam Swami was surprised at the precocious way he answered questions on “Chaturdasa LakshaNa” in Nyaaya Grantham.· He earned the appreciation of Uttaraadi MuTT Swami when he explained a difficult topic on “Pancha LakshaNee”.· He studied “Saamaanya Nivritti” under TirukkaLLam Krishnamachariar Swami and Maduraantakam Swami.· He studied also under InjimETTu Swami, Naavalpakkam Ayyaa Devanaatha Swami, Mukkur Srinivasachariar Swami and his own elder brother, Sri Narayanachariar Swami.· DEvanaar viLaagam Swami hailed his essay of just 10 pages on Sri Baashyam as a masterpiece.· In the “MalOla Vidwat Sadas” at TiruvaLLur, he explained Jignanasa AdhikaraNa – Laghu Siddhaantam.

OCCUPATION & BLESSINGS RECEIVED· He was Adhyaapaka at Maduraantakam College for about 6 months.· Mukkur Azhagiya singhar appointed him as Aasthaana Vidwan. · Taught at Paadur Paatasaala for sometime.· D.T. Tatachariar Swami conferred on him the title of "Vidwan MaNi" at Sri Vedaanta Desika “Sudhaa Swaadini Sabha” at Tirupati.· Uttamur Swami recorded his appreciation of his work as a model for others.· Tirukkudanthai Andavan Swami, after hearing his exposition at "Padukaa Vihaara Vidwat Sadas" advised that he would make an ideal Sannyaasi.· Andavan Swami blessed him at “Mannargudi Vidawat Sadas" where our Swami expatiated on “Vibhishana Saranaagathi”.· Succeeded TirukkaLLam Swami as Associate Editor of Narasimhapriya journal.· Has attended numerous Vidwat Sadas at Poundarikapuram Andavan Asramam and secured the blessings of successive Pontiffs there like Mannaargudi Andavan, Vennaatrankarai Andavan and Prakritam ParavaakkOTTai Andavan.

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· Wrote "Sri VaishNava Sadaachaara Nirnayam"- his magnum opus - a reference manual with a commentary on Aasoucha Sathakam by Sri Melpaakkam Swami.

EPOCH MAKING EVENTS· UPANAYANAM: Sri Narayanachar Swami performed his Upanayanam at GarbhashTamam.· SAMASRAYANAM: He had his Samaasrayanam at the hands of InjimETTu Azhagiya singhar in 1940.· MARRIAGE: He married at age 18 (1944) the daughter of Vidwan Kaniyambaakkam Srinivaasacharya and had a happy married life of 46 years. He has three sons. · BHARANYASAM: He had his BharaNyaasam at the hands of DEvanaar viLaagam Azhagiya Singhar on a Dwadasi day of Panguni month in the year Pingala.· PRESHA MANTRA UPADESAM: Once, Mukkur Azhagiya Singhar called him for doing Araadhana while at AhObilam. When the Swami arrived, he asked our Swami to take up Sannyasa and administered "PrEsha Mantraas” along with his brother Sri Narayanacharya. Thus, he had his PrEsha mantra upadEsam at AhObilam where Aadhi Vann Satakopar had his PrEsha mantra upadEsam. · 12th October 1991: Mukkur Swami took ill suddenly when our Swami was at Tirupati for a discourse. He immediately returned to Srirangam.· 21st October 1991: Sannyasa Sweekaranam at Srirangam at the hands of Mukkur Azhagiya singhar and in the immediate presence and blessings of ParavaakkOTTai Andavan.- 16th August 1992: Mukkur Azhagiyasinghar attained Paramapadam.· 24th August 1992: PaTTaabhishEkam of our Swami as 45th Jeeyar duly blessed with PrOkshanam and recitation of Sri Rama PaTTaabisheka Mantram by his mentor and Yathisreshtar, ParavaakkOTTai Andavan, Sri GOpaala Desika Maha Desikan of Poundarika Puram Swami Asramam.

HIS DEDICATION TO ARCHAMURTHIS AND ARADHANA· As one witnesses the eye filling atmosphere in which our Swami performs Araadhana and the loving dedication of Upachaaras to the Upaasana murthis, one cannot fail to feel palpably being transported to the very Apraakrita Loka, while being in this Prakrita Loka itself.· One will be astonished to see how our Swami untiringly observes his Anushtanams, Bhagavad Kainkaryams, and Bhaagavata Kainkaryams in addition to offering impromptu KaalskshEpam discourses and writing out deeply researched articles for Narasimhapriya Journal. He spends nearly 20 out of 24 hours with practically no rest and on strict starvation diet.· Looking at all these, we wonder if we have returned to Krita Yugam itself transcending the Kali Yugam we are supposed to be in. In fact, it used to be said that within every Yuga an “Avaantaram” corresponding to 1250 years repeats itself. By this calculation, we have now crossed the first 5000 years consisting of Krita, Treta, Dwapara and Kaliyuga Avantaras. Thus, we have set foot on the new “Kritayuga Avantara” as evidenced by the presence of such great and hoary Acharya Parampara, the diadem of which is our Azhagiyasinghar. We should really be proud that we are now coeval with this great Mahaan.

HIS RESPECT FOR ACHARYAS · None could exemplify the ideal Sishya as per “Nyaasa Vimsati” and “Sishya kritya Adhikaara” of Swami Desikan than our Swami.· Whenever he talks about his Poorva Acharyas, you can notice a glint in his eyes blending his Bhakti, Gratitude and joy of nostalgia.· I have seen how he used to stand as the very personification of utmost humility when he stood before 44th Jeeyar before, during and after becoming the Chinna Jeeyar.· While doing Antharanga Kaashaaya Kainkaryam to InjimETTu Azhagiya Singhar, he learned all sookshma Anushtanams from him.

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· Indeed, he represented a Triveni Sangamam imbibing in himself all the qualities of head and heart of the three Yathivaras whom he had the privilege to serve Viz. 42nd 43rd and 44th Azhagiya Singhars.

HIS RESPECT FOR ACHARYAS OF OTHER DISCIPLINES· While taking KaalskshEpam classes on Divya Prabhandams, he would teach us with the volumes published by Puttur Swami and refer to his works with great respect.· He would unfailingly express his admiration of the way in which VELukkudi Vardaachaariar Swami attained Paramapadam after performing GhanTa SEva at the Sannidhi of Periya Perumal.

HIS DEVOTION TO SRI NARAYANACHAR SWAMILike Sri Rama's yuvaraja PaTTaabhishEkam could not go on as planned, Sri Narayanachar's nomination to succeed 44th Jeeyar could not be fulfilled; But, Sri Narayanachar lives through his fame - true to the saying "Yasah Kaayena Jeevathi" because his brother assumed his name on acquiring Sannyaasa Ashramam. Right from ArulappaaDu, all honors are literally addressed to the name of Narayana Yateendra! Only the problems of administration have fallen to the lot of our Swami!· Like Bharata who ruled in the name of Sri Rama, our Swami thinks and acts as if he were a regent of his brother.· Bharata and Lakshmana were proud to call themselves as brothers of Sri Rama, not as princes in their own right. Similarly, our Swami feels proud of being the brother of Sri Narayanachar and has never failed to mention this publicly whenever an occasion arose.· During the days when he grew up with his brother, he used to place all Sambhavanais he got at the feet of his brother.· Sri Narayanachar wrote his commentary on “Para Matha Bhangam” of Swami Desika called "Desikaasaya Prakaasam". It is a rare case of Vairaaghyam when he refused to ask anyone for any financial assistance for publishing it. Sri Purisai Swami and others financed the project of releasing the first Part of the book. But, the Swami could not live to see the release of the Second Part. Our Swami, despite several odds, took great pains to get it printed, including proof reading of galley proof to the final one all by himself. · Once an Advaitin (who chanced to peruse the proof that had been proofread by our Swami) challenged him on the use of the word "Prachanna Bouddhas" with reference to Advaitins. Our Swami had to convince him how and why the term was used.[I have with me as a valuable treasure, a copy of this book presented to me by our Swami]

WHAT AN ACHARYA!· If one needs to know how an ideal Achaarya would be, one only needs to look at our Acharya. He is a living example of the ideal Achaarya as defined in “Nyaasa Vimsati” and “Achaarya kritya Adhikaram” of Swami Desikan.· In a sense, our Swami is greater than Bhagavaan himself. Do you know why? Bhagavaan knows both Anugraham (Reward) and Nigraham (Punishment). But, our Acharya (like Thaayaar) is "Agjnaatha Nigraha". Like Koorathalwan who recommended Moksham for Naaloor Aachaan though the latter was responsible for the loss of his eyesight, our Swami knows only Anugraham.· What qualities differentiate an Achaarya from the rest? They are Jnaanam + Aachaaram + AnushTaanam + Bhakti + Vairaaghyam. Our Swami is a personification of all these and more.· Our Swami is special in another sense viz. He takes the 8 lettered AshTaakshara name of Narayana as the 8th Achaarya out of the 45 pontiffs adorning the PeeTam of Azhagiya Singhars so far. He is Lord Narayana Himself![ I have a photo of Azhagiyasinghar's Mangalasasanam of Sri Andal taken at Srivilliputtur. Believe it or not, you can see the image of Lord Lakshminrisimha

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where Swami’s shadow is expected to fall on the wall at the Garbagraham. He is indeed Lord Lakshminrisimha Himself!]

HIS CONCERN FOR HIS SISHYAS· The very first question that our Acharya poses whenever one enters his presence is "Have you taken food?” The first advice he would give is to direct one to go and take food before visiting him again!· Even though he has thousands of Sishyas, devotees and admirers, he remembers every one of them by name and every detail of their family backgrounds, their occupations, their connections etc with unerring accuracy. It is astonishing how he updates his database so well that even if one were to meet him once in a blue moon, he can recall to the minutest detail almost instantaneously! He is indeed a hi-tech electronic organizer!· His Sishya Vaatsalyam is evident from the way he presents the subjects to them in terms of what Swami Desikan characterizes as "Anru eendha kanrukku irangi surakkum dEnuvaip pOl" (meaning) like the mother cow that lovingly gives milk to the just born calf. The way he teaches would confirm his aim to make everyone a Vidwaan like himself.· He is honest in his approbation and lavish in his praise for his Sishyas- not that we deserve the same. Imperceptibly, by such praise he would encourage us to live up to his expectations!· He would cherish every Sishya as if he were a close friend whose friendship he cannot afford to lose! Did not Swami Desika describe the Lord as "SaraNaagatha praNaya bhanga bheetho bhavaan" (meaning) that the Lord appeared as if he was afraid of losing the goodwill of the SaraNaagatha (one who had surrendered to Him)"?.· Being an expert in VyaakaraNa Saastra as in every other branch of study, whether in speaking or in writing, there will be no grammatical error in any of his presentations. Indeed, he is like what Kamban described Anjaneya as "Sollin Selvan".· Like each of the wives of Sage Soubhari who claimed that the Sage liked only her to the exclusion of all his other wives, every Sishya is made to feel that the Swami is dear to him / her only exclusively.· Also, like each of the Gopis felt the love of KaNNan as her own exclusive privilege, every Sishya would feel exclusively close to the Swami. In this connection, it is interesting to note, that though his official name in his Poorvaasramam was Krishnamachari, his pet name at home was "KaNNan". No wonder, we feel like Gopis drawn to KaNNan! Such is the feeling of intimacy he instills in anyone who comes into contact with him. What Magic, what formula, what charisma he has, to so entice everyone thus is really beyond our comprehension.· I have had several occasions when I asked him doubts both during KaalskshEpams and in private at his home. He has been ever ready and with convincing answers at all times whether orally or in writing. Since, he is on Sanchaaram nowadays, he has advised me to send my letters to his camp address where he was likely to stay for longer periods, lest my letters should fail to reach him.· In a sense, we are more blessed than our Acharya. Do you know why? He worships Laksminarasimhan only; but, we are doubly fortunate since we worship not only Lakshmi Narasimhan, the 'Araadhya' but also our Swami who is the 'Araadhaka' of Lakshmi Nrasimhan!

HOW DID I COME TO KNOW THIS MAHAN?· It was almost two decades ago, when in one of my visits to the Achaarya of my family, Prakritam pontiff of Poundarikapuram Swami Ashramam, he advised me to go to one Villivalam Krishnamachar Swami, (that was Swami’s poorvaasrama Tirunaamam) who was delivering KaalakshEpams in Adyar area itself and learn the Granta ChatushTayam. Immediately I made a beeline to his home and conveyed the direction of PP Andavan. Our Swami was so pleased that he literally drew up a timetable showing where, at what timings and on what subjects he was giving KaalakshEpams.

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· From that moment onwards I followed him to all the homes - in Adyar, Besant nagar, Nehru nagar, Vannan thurai, Mylapore, Triplicane and so many other locations and at all times whenever and wherever he was handling classes. In short, like a shadow and like “Mary's little lamb” of the nursery rhyme fame- "Everywhere that Swami went, I was sure to go". - In each one of the locations, there would be say 20 to 25 Vidyaarthis attending. Our Swami and my humble self were the common factors, he - as the ' Vaktha' and myself - as 'SrOtha'. Our Swami, therefore, used to depute me to convey any messages he desired to be conveyed to all his students everywhere.· At one place, he would be teaching Chapter # 1, in another Chapter # 11 and in yet another Chapter # 21 of say, SRTS, Bhagavad Gita or Tiruvoimozhi. That is how I could cover all the above within say 5 or 6 years, what would have taken about 15 + years to cover. (I had the opportunity of learning Sri Baashyam at the feet of Purisai Swami and AnushTaanams at the feet of Srivatankaachaariar Swami. This is besides the discourses of ParavaakkOTTai Andavan of Poundarikapuram Swami Asramam, which I had the privilege to attend.)· Besides the formal KaalskshEpam classes, I had the privilege of visiting his house at West Mambalam frequently to clear my doubts in private. · There was not a single occasion when he was not willing to entertain me, in spite of his busy schedule. And, never was there an occasion when Mami failed to offer me her characteristic warm welcome whenever I entered their home. Such was the affection showered on this worthless soul by the Swami and his Dharmapatni.· It was because of this overwhelming sense of gratitude that I felt an inner urge to compose and dedicate a "Tanian" long, long before a formal Tanian was composed at the time of his Sannyasa Sweekaranam.It reads as follows:(i) Vignaatham Aathmaanam Vidyaa Vinaya Vibhooshitham(ii) Viveka Vairaaghya AnushTaana Soulabhya Suseelam /(iii) Asmath Darsana Sthaapaka VyaapakaaNaam VarishTam(iv) Vande Gurum Villivalam Sri Krishnama Aachaarya SirO maNim //

(i) He used to say frequently that "One should know One's self ". Here is one who had known his self. Hence,” Vignaatham Aathmaanam”

(ii) Vidya (Learning) and Vinaya (Humility) rarely go together. Here is one who blends both and blends them so perfectly. Hence,' Vidyaa Vinaya Vibhooshitham'- Not merely ' Bhooshitham' but ' Vibhooshitham'.

(iii) There may be so many today that seek to establish our Darsana. Here is one who is outstanding among them all. Hence, '”Staapaka Vyaapakaanaam VarishTam'

(iv) He is a Guru in the sense he dispels the darkness of ignorance. He is Acharya because he throws light on the correct path. Hence, the use of the words“Guru' and 'Acharya'- Not only that. He is also the diadem among Gurus and Acharyas. Hence, “SirO maNim”· This Tanian was submitted at the Sadas held at Prof. V. Ramabadran's house. When it was read out and presented, our Swami was so moved and asked me how it came to be composed. I just quoted the stanza from Godha Sthuti where Swami Desikan says-'" Mounaan Mukharayanti Gunaah Tvadheeyaah" (meaning) it was his qualities that made even a mute fellow like me to venture to compose. I also quoted Mahaakavi Bharatiyaar's words "Nidhi Migunthavar Porkuvai Thaareer Nidhi Kuraindavar Kaasugal ThaareerAdhuvum Arravar Vai Choll AruLeer”meaning "Those who are wealthy may give their treasures, those who are not so opulent may give smaller denominations and those who do not have anything may at least give some words of praise"- And, I was just doing the last direction.

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He replied that one cannot win over another by force but he felt bound by love and affection as evidenced through this piece. He arranged to have this framed and kept it in his house as a memento.

HIS SOULABYAMIn his "Acceptance Speech" of the Tanian, the Swami exclaimed publicly "Yennaik KaTTip pOTTu viTTeerE!" by way of acknowledging my submission. Can anyone bind him? Out of his Soulabhyam, the Swami made it appear as if I bound him. I was reminded of Madhurakavi Alwar's "KaNNi nuNN Siru Thaambinaal kattuNNap paNNiya peru maayan". I felt like swooning overwhelmed by his Soulabhyam like “UralinOdu iNaindhu irundhu yEngiya yeLivE" (Tiruvoimozhi 1.3.1). What Compassion? What humility? And, to whom? Like "Kurai onrum illaatha Govindan" stooping down to bless "Arivu onrum illaatha aaichiyar"!

ACHAARA AND ACHAARYAThe great Maharishis of yore while defining Acharya LakshaNam lay great emphasis on Achaara. Aachinothi Hi Saastraan Aachaare Sthapayatyapi /Swayam AacharatE Yasmaath Tasmaath Aachaarya UchyatE //Like the bees that collect the quintessence of honey from various flowers, he (Acharya) gains knowledge learning from his Acharyas and other elders, follow the Sastraic disciplines (Achaara), strictly as learned and encourages his disciples to follow him more by practice than by precept. Only such a one can be an Achaarya. This makes it clear that mere Knowledge is not enough. Achaara (Conduct) should back it up as the hallmark of a true Achaarya. Our Swami is a perfect example of these twin qualifications.

SROTRIYA PAR EXCELLENCEManusmriti differentiates the various qualities that go to make a SrOtriya thus:Janmanaa Braahmano Jneyah Samskaaraih Dvija UchyatE /Vidyayaa Yaathi Vipratvam Tribhir yEthaih SrOtriya UchyatE //One may be a Brahmin by birth; with Upanayana Samskaara, one becomes a Dvija (twice born); and by acquiring true knowledge he matures into a Vipra. But, it is the one who has all these is a SrOtriya. And, our Swami is a SrOtriya par excellence!

HIS NATURAL DISPOSITIONThere are four qualities that have to be inborn and manifest as natural tendencies. They cannot be acquired by mere effort. They are Daatrutvam (Munificence), Priya-vaktrutvam (Pleasant talk), Dheeratvam (Courage) and Uchita jnaanataa (doing what is appropriate)Daatrutvam PriyaVaktrutvam Dheeratvam Uchita jnaanathaa /Abhyaasena Na Labhyante Chatvaaras Sahajaa Gunaah //(i) Daatrutvam: In Tamil (Eeagai) The way he welcomed whenever anyone visited his Tirumaaligai during his Poorvasramam was remarkable. Even today, one can feel the warmth of welcome he extends to anyone visiting him, wherever he is.(ii) Priya vaktrutvam: The smiling face and the comforting words make everyone feel 'at home away from home'- an object lesson on 'Athithi Satkaaram'.(iii) Dheeratvam: The courage with which he renounced his Grihasta Aasrama of nearly 40 years in which he had a closely knit family consisting of a loving wife and three obedient sons can be appreciated only by those who had moved with this unique family. The acumen with which he discharges the onerous responsibilities of the great empire he presides over, lifting its finance from a deep deficit to an incredible surplus figure is possible only to one who knows 'to do what is proper at the proper time'.(iv) Uchita jnaanathaa: Vaalmiki enquired Sage Naarada two questions:

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"Vidwaan Kah?" and "Kah Samarthah?" Cannot a Vidwan naturally be capable also? Not necessarily. One who is an expert in Vaidika Saastra Jnaana need not necessarily be an able lowkika administrator.In reply, Naarada pointed out Sri Rama as the person who is at once a "Vidwan" and a "Samartha'. This combination is amply evident in our Swami. His knowledge is well matched by his acumen as stated above.

NARA and NARAYANAIt is well known that in the beginning Bhagavaan appeared at Badrikaasramam as both "Nara" and "Narayana". "Narayana" is understandable. But, why as "Nara"? To show to the world how a Sishya should conduct himself towards his Achaarya. Jayakhya Samhita brings this out -Saakshaath Naaraayano Devah Kritvaa Martya mayeem tanum /Magnaan Udhvarathe Lokaan Karunayaa Saastra PaaNinaa /Tasmaath Bhaktih Gurou Kaaryam Samsaara Bhaya Bheerunaa //Out of extreme compassion, the Lord concealing his Paratvam appeared in human form as Achaarya and Sishya wielding Saastra UpadEsa as the weapon to lift spiritually the Jeevas enmeshed in the deep mire of Samsaara. Our Swami exemplified the role of a Sishya when he served his three predecessors and today shines in his role as an Acharya for all of us. It, therefore, behooves us to be devoted to our Achaarya as our 'SEshi', 'SaraNya' and ' Praapya'.

·WHY SHOULD WE DO THIS?Svetaswatara Upanishad answers this question: -Yasya dEvE Paraa Bhaktih Yathaa dEvE Tathaa Gurou /Tasyaite Kathithaa Hiyarthah Prakaasanthe Mahaatmanah //The mystic truths reveal themselves to only one who has supreme devotion towards God and who has intense devotion towards his Guru in the same way.There is also a saying-Yathaa MantrE Yathaa VaidyE Yathaa DEvE Yathaa Gurou /Yaadrisee Bhaavanaa Yasya Siddhir Bhavati Taadrisee //The extent of benefit one derives depends on the extent of faith one has - whether it is Mantra or Doctor or God or Achaarya. Therefore, when approaching the Achaarya, one should do so with utmost faith and devotion.Lord Krishna makes it clear that those who do not develop this faith are fools since even in his own case; they mistake him to be ordinary human seeing his physical appearance being very much like their own."Avajaananthi Maam MooDaah Maanusheem Tanum Aasritham"Also, Saastras declare - Yo Vishnuor Prathimaakaare Loha Bhaavam Karothi Cha /Yo Gurou Maanusham Bhaavam Ubhou Naraka Paathinah //One who considers the Archaa Murthi of Lord Vishnu with reference to the material it is made of and the one who considers the Achaarya as a mere human being like himself -Both of them are sure to fall into the worst hells.

OBSERVE DECORUM!When our Swami visited my humble hut for DOlai, he noticed a Sumangali lady wearing a 6 yards sari. He called her up and advised that at least when attending religious functions like this, Grihasta gents should wear the traditional Panchakatcham and Angavastram and the Sumangalis should wear 9 yards sari in the traditional way.

Assuming that you are a Cadet in the military and also personal friend of the President, you cannot insist that because of your closeness with the President you would wear say a Panchakatcham while participating in the military parade. You have to respect the dress code prescribed for the occasion. The same holds good also for those wishing to participate in the Saatrumurai Seva along with the Jeeyar early in the morning at Tirumalai, when they check

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not only the dress code but also if you do not sport the proscribed sideburns before allowing you to enter the temple.

DON'T PLAY WITH FIRE!Those desiring to derive warmth in the cold winter light a campfire. One has to be near enough to feel the warmth; one who is far away cannot enjoy the benefit. One cannot go too near the fire, lest it should burn and scald. Similarly, when approaching the Achaarya, one has to maintain the right distance. Going too near, one might commit Apachaarams; Remaining too far, one may not derive the benefit of his UpadEsam.

A WEDDING CELEBRATEDMy first son, Parthasarathi's wedding was celebrated. So, what is the big deal about it for mentioning it here?

[May be this is too personal. But, it provides a peep into the compassion, Achaara and AnushTana etc. of our Swami, which I had the opportunity to observe first hand and at close quarters. I hope you will enjoy his KalyaaNa guNas as revealed in these events]Let me explain:· Our Swami who was known never to miss his schedule of KaalakshEpams stopped it for 2 days everywhere in order to make himself free to come to Tirupati to perform Adhyaksham (i.e. preside over) the wedding function that was held at Sri Seetharama Kalyana Mandapam at Tirumalai in July 1991. The Purohits in charge of the ritual were in mortal fear, lest they should make any mistake in the presence of our revered Swami! Is this not a big deal?· Not only that. It was the Tamil month of AaDi. My would--be Sambandhis were so scared to have the wedding as they were told that it was not an auspicious month for wedding. Our Swami personally went through the various PramaaNams and AnushTana Granthas and gave the green signal that the wedding could be performed in AaDi. Is this not a big deal?· As I was a Vitura (widower), I was not sure if I could do the rituals of Jaata karaNam, Naama karaNam etc as a prelude to the actual function. Swami volunteered to do these on my behalf. Is this not a big deal?· After personally consulting several authorities, he suggested that only in the case of a bride, all these had to be done by one who is not a Vitura and in the case of the bridegroom since all these Samskaras are already over at the time of Upanayanam itself, there was no bar in my doing them. Is this not a big deal?· Our Swami was accompanied by his wife. As he would not take (Paraannam) food elsewhere, Mami prepared food for him at Parakala Mutt premises at Tirumalai where we had arranged for their stay. In fact, we took the delicious Prasaadam which Mami offered out of what she cooked! Is this not a big deal?

SAPTADI MAHOTSAVAM OF POUNDARIKAPURAM ANDAVAN· March 22, 1991, was a memorable day. That was the Saptadhi day of Sri GOpaala Desika Mahaa Desikan, Prakritam ParavaakkOTTai Andavan of Poundarikapuram Swami Asramam.· I had booked two berths by the Rock fort Express for Our Swami and myself for attending the celebrations at Srirangam. Sri Lakshmi Narasimhan, who is an Officer in the State Bank of India, Alwarpet Branch, Madras and the first son of our Swami in his Poorvasramam (whom we call by his pet name Raghu) brought our Swami to Egmore station, where I was waiting to receive him as previously arranged.· When during one of his visits to my house (in the interval between two Kalakshepam classes), I expressed my desire to take up some advertisement space in the Saptadhi MahOtsava Malar of PP Andavan as a token of dedication

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to my Acharya, our Swami suggested the passage occurring as the Prathama Prasnah in Sikshaavalli - Saamhineer DEvata Upanishad - Saanthi PaaTam of Taittriya Upanishad, which prays for the protection of both the Acharya and Sishya “Sanno Mitras Sam VaruNah…Tanmaa Avatu, Tad Vaktaaram Avatu, Avatu Maam, Avatu Vaktaaram…" as the appropriate wordings to appear. Accordingly, this has appeared in the Saptadhi MahOtsava Malar immediately after the conclusion of the article by Sri Ranga Priya Yathi "Sriranga Srees Cha Vardhathaam." That Sri Poundarika Puram Andavan Swami was very pleased to see this needs no mention.· As we arrived at Srirangam, we took an Autorikshaw to the Asramam. Since the Veda PaaraayaNam was going on there, Swami told me - "Take Prasaadam of Abigamanam at AhObila Mutt itself; It will be too late for your lunch at the Asramam" How thoughtful and how concerned he was that I should be fed on time!· The “Yathi” and the “Yathi-to-be” were closeted for a while discussing some personal matters. I was standing at a respectable distance, lest I should be felt as an intruder in their conversations. I was thrilled and pleasantly shocked when both of them beckoned me to come near and join them. I still wonder how both the Acharyas deemed me worthy of being invited to the privy of their meeting! And, I still wonder how I deserved this baaghyam! One thing I could understand was that our Swami was seeking guidance on some sensitive issues from his mentor, ParavaakkOTTai Andavan Swami. As the discussions were too private, I am leaving them out here.

NEXUS OF AHOBILA MUTT WITH POUNDARIKAPURAM ANDAVAN ASRAMAM· The nexus that exists between AhObila Mutt and Poundarikapuram Andavan Asramam is indeed very long standing. The heads of the two institutions have always held each other in very high esteem despite overzealous Sishyas and vested interests outside trying to engineer disaffection between them.· The 42nd Jeeyar of AhObila Mutt, SrivaNN SatakOpa Sri Sriranga SatakOpa Yathindra Mahaa Desikan, otherwise known as Sri InjimETTu Azhagiyasinghar whom we celebrate today for founding the MalOla Vidwat Sadas, Maduraantakam College, Nrisimhapriya monthly journal etc. was initiated into Sannyaasa Asramam by Vennatrankarai Srimad Andavan, Srinivasa Mahas Desikan of Poundarikapuram Swami Asramam in April 1929 as per the Niyamanam of 41st Jeeyar SivaNN SatakOpa Lakshmi Narasimha SatakOpa Yatindra Mahaa Desikan of AhObila Mutt.· The Prakritam ParavaakkOTTai Swami had just then assumed charge as the Pontiff of the Poundarikapuram Asramam when he had not even known personally all the Sishyas belonging to the Asramam. Yet, the 44th Jeeyar of AhObila Mutt, SrivaNN SatakOpa Sri Vedaanta Desika Yathindra Mahaa Desikan wanted him to bear the cost of the 12th tier of the Raaja gopuram that was being built by him at Srirangam. Undaunted, ParavaakkOTTai Swami raised almost instantly the funds needed for this and submitted it at the feet of Azhagiya Singhar. Thus, the 12th tier of the Rajagopuram was the Kainkaryam of Prakritam Andavan of Poundarikapuram Swami Asramam.· When someone went to court to debar Poundarikapuram Andavan from using the honorific "Andavan", the 44th Jeeyar of AhObila Mutt, SrivaNN SatakOpa Sri Vedaanta Desika Yathindra Mahaa Desikan called the litigants and challenged them to dare initiating proceedings first against those outside the pale of Srivaishnavam using the term "Andavan" (like Nagoor Andavan, Meyvazhi Chaalai Andavan etc) before seeking Poundarikapuram Asramam Swami to drop the hereditary title successively adorning the Achaaryas of Poundarikapuram Swami Asramam. It was only when the head of the opposite party was called to take the stand in the Court that they withdrew the case!· During the Sannayasa SweekaraNam and subsequent PaTTaabhishEkam and PeeTa AarOhaNam of our Prakritam Azhagiya Singhar, 45th Jeeyar of AhObila mutt, they were performed under the Adhyaksham and immediate presence of Prakritam Andavan of PP Asramam, ParavaakkOTTai Sri GOpaala Desika Mahaa

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Desikan who sprinkled holy waters uttering the holy Rama PaTTaabhishEkam SlOkam "Abhishinchya Nara Vyaagram".· When I went to offer my obeisance to PP Andavan soon after the Sannyasa SweekaraNam, he remarked (albeit jocularly) "Ungalavar PeeTa adhipathi aagi viTTaar. ungaluku yenna kuraichal?" Meaning "You have nothing to worry. Your friend has become the Pontiff of AhObila MaTam"I replied "Swami! Neengal AnuppithaanE Antha SwamyiDam KaalskshEpam KEtkap POnEn". Meaning"Only as per your directions, I went to that Swami to listen to KaalskshEpam"He smiled and agreed. If my Acharya were to say thus, it only shows how much Azhagiya Singhar should have spoken to him affectionately about me. Can there be a greater baaghyam than this?

AZHAGIYASINGHAR'S KALAKSHEPA VAIKHARI (HIS INIMITABLE TALENT IN EXPLAINING)· Supposing a mother has a number of children. Do you know which child would be dearest to her? On which child would she bestow her utmost concern and best attention? The answer is simple. Naturally, it is on the most handicapped of them all. You will remember my telling that I was a common SrOtha in all his KaalskshEpam classes. If you wish to award a prize for - not the dumb, not the dumber - but the dumbest, stupidest student in all the classes put together, sure as anything, I would win the first prize. May be, this is the reason why he would not proceed to the next line unless he made sure that I had understood what was being explained (sometimes to the point of annoyance of other brilliant students and everyone else was in this category). From this, I am tempted to conclude that in such circumstances, even stupidity has its own virtues and at times pays its own dividends!· Any explanation of the esoteric involved in the Granthas conveyed in high flying Paribashai would put off lay folks; And, Pundits would feel out of tune with any simple, straightforward language. Our Swami would present his talks in a happy blend of both so that every segment would find it agreeable to their predilections all at the same time! This inimitable style comes to him effortlessly like fish taking to water. A rare quality, which others could only envy but would find hard to emulate!· Even as he is talking he would grasp our doubts by merely looking at us and within seconds he would be addressing the precise doubts. Even though he is a 'Paaram gathah' (one who has mastered), he would tune his presentation to suit even dullest heads and according to the Paripakkuvam of the audience - who would remain still like "ezhudu chithiram" (a painted picture) and like calves listening to the flute of KaNNan. Indeed, like Sri Rama, he is "Vaagmi Srimaan" (Richly endowed with the gift of expression). What a blend of incompatibles! It is indeed, "Seraatha Serkai" (the reconciliation of incompatible requirements) as Tamil Pundits would put it.· This would be like 'spoon-feeding'; like a mother feeding her baby showing the moon and telling a story that grips the imagination of the baby. The way he can sway your emotions, now hilarious, now sober, now saddening, now consoling can only be imagined! And that way, he will make you appreciate the mood of the context, the Tiru ULLam of the Azhwars or Achaaryas in any given situation most effectively.· Appropriate quotations from nooks and corners of the scriptures would flow like flood so effortlessly that we would be tempted to feel with the students of the Schoolmaster in Oliver Goldsmith's Deserted Village- “The more we listened, the more our wonder grew How his small head could contain all that he knew"· He is anxious to give away all that he has learned to those who desire.Did not Saandilya say -?"Paatrastham Aathma jnaanam Kritvaa Pindam Sam UtsrujEt/ Naanthardhaaya svayam yaayaath jagad Bheejam Abheejakrit"Meaning: "An Acharya should unreservedly teach all that he has learned to his devoted Sishyas. If he keeps close fisted, the seed of Knowledge will wither away"

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· During the KaalskshEpam, in order to make us understand better, he would give the exact English equivalents. Not that he does not know English, but to make us feel important, he would pose as if he is not sure of the correct usage and consult us whether his rendering is correct. How clever in making us feel at home and feel elated!· His time-keeping, shall I say instinct, is really marvelous. He would start on the dot and finish on the 90th minute, if the lecture were to be for 90 minutes. Even Professors in College need to be reminded by the ringing of the bell. When he starts and when he stops, you can adjust your watch. This razor sharp precision has to be seen to be believed.

SWAMI'S SENSE OF HUMOUR· Not a day would pass without our Swami narrating some anecdote or other that would help to illustrate, illuminate and sustain interest. Most of them would be garnished with subtle and appropriate humor to drive home the point indelibly. We would therefore, flock looking forward to have a new treat everyday. One remarkable thing is that any such anecdote once told would never be repeated! You will be surprised at the perennial source of wit and humor punctuating his talks. Let me share with you a few of these.

· ABOUT ASTROLOGERS: An astrologer was approached on behalf of two patients who were terminally ill with a prognosis of certain death. The astrologer gave two pieces of stone chipped out of a rock and asked them to be tied to the wrist of each patient. When one of them recovered, the astrologer claimed his prediction that he would recover and stand 'like a rock' had come true; When the other patient died he explained how his prediction that the other patient would die as if ‘stoned to death' had also come true. This is a classic example of quibbles indulged in by these cheats.· ABOUT CROSSING SAMSARAM: There lived in a village an old couple. The wife was a devout Hindu. She used to go to the temple and attend a religious discourse there every night but the man was not so devout and he used to remain at home. One day the lady fell ill and wanted to take rest. She asked her husband to go and listen and report back the gist of that night's lecture. She went to sleep. But, at dead of night, she suddenly woke up and was startled to find her husband repeatedly jumping over her from one side to the other. She asked him what he was doing. Replied the man: "I am sorry that I did not attend the lecture earlier. Tonight, the lecturer said that one can get 'Moksha', if one jumped over 'Samsara'". The word 'Samsara' also means 'Wife' besides its natural meaning of cycle of births and deaths. He mistook the word 'Samsara' to mean his wife and was therefore doing the jumping exercise! This is definitely not the way to achieve Moksha. Moksha can be reached only when a person is Karma-free (i.e.) when there is no backlog of causes playing into his present state. In principle, that he has learned to attune himself absolutely to the cosmic pattern as it is at that moment so that there is no kind of stress or conflict between what is taking place within his individual monadic field and what is happening in the Universe.

· ABOUT A FOOLISH KING: Once, a thief broke into the house of a villager. The villager complained to the King. The King ordered an enquiry and wanted to hang the person found guilty. The thief was caught and brought before the King. But, he pleaded that he did not break into the house. Because the mud with which the house was built had not yet dried up, it fell apart on its own. The King then called the mason who built the house. He pleaded that because the potter had made the pot bigger than the standard size, it contained more water than was necessary to water the bricks laden with mud.

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Then, the King called the Potter. He pleaded that as he was making the pot a lady was going hither and thither distracting his attention and therefore he could not make sure of the correct size.The lady pleaded that the washer man to whom she had given her clothes for washing did not return it on time and she had to walk up and down to see him.The washer man pleaded that when he went to the river, a mendicant was sitting on the stone used for beating clothes and that repeated requests to move away were not heeded by the mendicant. Hence, the delay.The mendicant was deaf-mute and therefore could not defend himself. So. the King ordered hanging the mendicant!· ABOUT MONKEY AND MEDICINETo illustrate how the more you try consciously to control your mind the moreerratic it behaves, the Swami narrated the following: Once a doctor gave his patient some medicine for some ailment and cautionedhim that there was only one restriction. The patient should not think ofmonkey while taking the medicine. Every time the patient took a dose, thethought of monkey automatically came to his mind!· ABOUT A FAKE SANNYASI:There was a King very devoted to Saints and was prepared to do what it took toplease them. A few thieves wanted to cheat the king. They caught hold of aninnocent fellow and dressed him up like a Sannyasi and asked him to act likeone instructing him that if the King asked him what he wanted, he shoulddemand half of the kingdom but on one condition - which he should turn over tothem half of whatever he got from the King. The poor fellow agreed. When he was presented before the King as a great Saint from the Himalayas, theKing offered him a royal reception and asked him what he desired. The fellowwas so overwhelmed by the hospitality that he thought ‘If even for acting likea Sannyasi, he were to command so much respect, what is it he cannot get if heturned really so'. He replied that he did not desire anything at all andnarrated how the thieves were misusing him. The King naturally gave duepunishments to them.· ABOUT FORCE OF HABIT: A person was sitting on a pile of stones heaped on the banks of a river. Hehad heard that in the heap there was a precious gem and he wanted to take holdof the gem. But, he was not sure how to locate the real one from out of theheap. So, he started picking up the stones one by one to examine and whenfound it was not the right one he threw it away into the waters. When actuallythe correct gem came into his hands and before he could make a determinationhe threw that also away involuntarily by force of habit!· ABOUT UTTANAPAADAR: When I mentioned that I was going to America, he visualized two persons onestanding In India and the other standing in America. Since the world is round,when the feet of the one in India were down, the feet of the one in America(which is at the other side of the globe) would have to be up. That isprobably why, he said, those in America were "Uttaana-paadas" with reference tothose in India and vice versa!· "SERUPPU SAADHIYUM":To emphasize how one should concentrate on the Sevai of Perumal while standingat the Garbhagraham and nothing else, he narrated the following. A person was wearing a new pair of very expensive footwear. As he entered thetemple, he had to leave it outside and there was no arrangement for itssafe-keeping there. While inside the Sanctum Sanctorum, his entire thought wasriveted on his footwear. When the Archaka was placing SaTaari forgot to offerhim, he called "Swami! Seruppu Saadhiyum!" instead of saying 'SaTaariSaadhiyum"!· ABOUT THE APPROPRIATENESS OF WESTERNERS' CALENDAR: He once remarked "Englishkaaran Romba Gettik Kaaran. Avan VarushathaidEevargaLin Ushat Kaalamaana Margazhi Maasam Aarambikkiraan" meaning "Englishmen are really intelligent. See, how they start their year in Januarywhich is Margazhi masam deemed to be the time of dawn for Devas"NOTE: There are far too numerous instances to relate all of them in this short

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write up.

SWAMI'S QUIZ SESSIONSNow and then, our Swami would pose some questions in the course of his KaalskshEpam. Maybe, to ensure how alert the listeners are; Maybe, to ensure a more active listeners' participation; Maybe, to illustrate some esoteric underlying the context. Of course, he would finally provide the answers in his own unique style. Like a born teacher, he would use this technique with telling effect. I will mention a few by way of example. I am not giving the answers. However, let me assure you that it is not too difficult to find the answers.· Quiz # 1: You are proceeding alone in a dense forest area. It is so dark and there is not a single soul anywhere around who could guide. You do not know the way to your destination. Suddenly you bump on a crossing of four roads. You notice a pole indicating the directions lying on the ground at a distance. How would you determine how to proceed to your destination?· Quiz # 2: A similar one. In the above circumstances, it is time for you to do your Sandhya Vandanam. Even stars are not seen on the sky. You do not have any instrument like mariner's compass. You do not see any water anywhere nearby. How will you determine which is east and which is west and what will you do to perform the Nitya anushTaana, when there is no water?· Quiz # 3: Which is greater of the two? Lord's hands or his feet and why?· Quiz # 4: You have read in Srimad Vaalmiki Ramayanam that Lakshmana promised to do all and every kind of service "Aham Sarvam Karishyaami". But, did he really act as promised? You have also read that when Sri Sita accused ILayazhwar of inappropriate behavior on hearing Maricha's wail aloud in the voice of Rama "Hey! Lakshmana! Hey Sita! He left Sita alone against the orders of Rama to guard her. Now, the question is what do you think Nammazhwar would have done in similar circumstances instead of ILayazhwar, to ensure obedience to the orders of both Rama and Sita?NOTE. There are indeed many more such queries but for want of space, I am leaving them out here.

SANNYASA SWEEKARANAM: · THE LETTER THAT CLINCHED: About 20 years ago, on the Panguni Dwadasi day in the year Pingala, our Swamihad just then returned home after a visit to Melpakkam Swami for consultinghim on some doubts on the Ahnika Grantham which he was printing. A telegramfollowed by a telephone call was received requiring him to come immediatelyfor doing Tiruvaradanai. When our Swami went to pay his respects to theAzhagiyza Singhar, he was asked to give a discourse on “Easwara SaadhakaAnumaanam” in “Sastra Yonitvaadi Adhikaranam” of Sri Baashyam. When after finishingthe discourse, our Swami took leave, the Jeeyar asked Natteri Santhanam "Didwe call him only to send him off? Bring that letter and give it to him". Theletter was from a Tennachaarya Swami who had great regard for Sri Sannidhi. Hehad suggested therein that while he was in good health itself, the AzhagiyaSinghar should make arrangements for installing his successor at once,

· THE ORDER: On the following Amavasya day, due to sudden illness, the Jeeyar summoned andasked our Swami to do Abigamana Aradhana after which he addressed our Swamithat he should henceforth take over the Abigamana Aradhana to MalOlan. (Whichmeans he should take over the mantle of the PeeTam). When our Swami submitted"Adiyen Asakthan", the Jeeyar ordered in the presence of all and MalOlan “Na utharam vaktum arhasi" (Accept without any pleas to the contrary!).

· SEND OFF BY SISHYAS:It was a sight for Gods to see when thousands of his KaalskshEpam Sishyasthronged at his house at # 5, Srinivasa Iyer Street Extension, West Mambalam

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to give a historical send off to our Swami from Grihastaasrama toSannyasaasrama. Our Swami 'appeared' to take it easy in spite of the fact thathe had lived an enviably happy married life with a loving wife and threeobedient sons and members of the family.

SEND OFF BY HIS WIFE: More than the send off by the Sishyas, it is the one given by Swami's wife whohad lived with him devotedly for over 46 years that deserves special mention.Addressing our Swami she said "yen manathaik kallaakki konDEn; NeengaLum UngaLmanathaik kallaakkik koLLungaL" meaning "I have made up mind; You make upyours". Listening to these words, our Swami did not look back and left hishome finally. The conflict of emotions surging in their hearts and theexemplary way in which both controlled their minds at that momentous momentbeggar description. Indeed, Mami was an epitome of composure. But, the Mamiwho said she had hardened her mind could not bear the separation for long. Sheattained Paramapadam within a year and a half after our Swami took Sannyasam.

· A PRELUDE TO THE MEGA EVENT:Before the mega event, our Swami, wanted to visit Desikan Sannidhi at Thoopuland several other Divya dEsams like Kanchipuram, Tirupati, Sriperumpudur,Tiruvaheendrapuram etc. Adiyen had arranged for a van to take the KaalskshEpamGOshTi members to accompany our Swami in his itinerary - an unforgettableexperience indeed.

· "I SURRENDER AT YOUR FEET" On the day he arrived after the visits to various shrines, Srirangam wore afestive look. All the roads from the Rajagopuram to the AhObila MaTam premiseswere filled with a milling crowd, surging forward to receive our Swami. Onreaching the MaTam, our Swami paid obeisance to Azhagiya Singhar and told him"Tyaktvaa Putraamscha Dhaaraams Cha Bhavantham Saranam Gatah" - "Leaving wife,family and everything I surrender at your feet"

· JEEVA SRADDHAM:It was a Dwaadasi day. The great day had arrived for performing JeevaSraddham. Under the patronage and immediate presence of ParavaakkOTTai SriGOpaala Desika Mahaa Desikan of Poundarikapuram Swami Asramam, GanapaaDi VaduvurDesikachariar Swami, Sri Melpaakkam Swami and other Vidwat SrEshTas commencedthe preparations from 8 a.m. onwards. Around 3.p.m, Our Swami declared raising his hands over his head that fromthat moment, he had given up everything he deemed his own - wife, children,relatives, wealth (not much of it, though). When he was saying this, one couldpalpably see the lump in his throat choking his voice but at the same time onecould also notice a firm determination to surrender everything at the feet ofMalOlan. Not a drop of tear from his eyes though tears rolled down from theeyes of the onlookers who were visibly moved!As required, the Swami had to fast and keep awake the whole night. Our Swamikept himself awake listening to the KaalskshEpam of other Swamis and chattingwith some of us. There were some media people who were asking him severalquestions like what he proposed to do in his new role. He replied that itwould be sufficient if he could preserve the rich heritage bequeathed to himand he did not propose to do anything novel or revolutionary. Thus, was the night spent without rest for him (and for us too).

· "ABISHINCHYA NARA VYAAGRAM":ParavaakkOTTai Sri GOpaala Desika Mahaa Desikan being the Senior most of theYathis (next only to 44th Jeeyar) both in point of age as well as date ofassuming Sannyasa Asramam is hailed as "VasishTa" by all other Yathis of ourSatsampradayam. As such, he had the honor of presiding over the wholefunction. He blessed our Swami with VasishTa Maharishi's Sri RamaPaTTaabhishEkam SlOkam "Abishinchya Nara Vyaagram" and sprinkled holy waters

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brought from many Punya Theerthams especially for the function.

· TRIDANDAM AND KAASHAAYA DHAARANAMThe most important appurtenance for a Sannyasi in our Sampradayam are theholding of TridanDam and donning the ochre robe. Around 12 noon, the TridanDammade of bamboo brought specially from AhObilam (where Aadhi Vann Satakoparreceived TridanDam from Lord Nrisimha himself) and Azhagiya Singhar presentedthe robes to our Swami. Our Swami then proceeded to River Kaveri (KolliDam) forAvabruta Snaanam.

· ASSUMING AS CHINNA JEEYAR: On return from the river, straight our Swami proceeded to where AzhagiyaSinghar was lodged and fell at his feet three times. The Azhagiya Singhar tookhim to the MalOlan Sannidhi and called him "Chinna Jeeyar" and presented himto MalOlan, like a mother would present her baby to her husband! Thus,knighted as it were, the two came to be recognized as "Periya Jeeyar" and""Chinna Jeeyar". Periya Jeeyar also presented him the Prasaadams received fromTiruvaLLur, AhObilam and other Divya Desams and told our Swami "From todayonwards, you take over the responsibilities of Tiruvaradana Kramams". Thus,from day 1, our Swami assumed full charge of these Kainkaryams. Even InjimETTuAzhagiya Singhar had to wait for 12 years from 1929 to 1941 before he couldassume the Tiruvaradana Kainkaryam.

· THE GRAND PROCESSION: With Veda gOsham reverberating, with Vaadhyams being played loud and clear,our Swami was taken in procession atop the elephant belonging to the Asramamto the special place allotted for him in the same premises. Thus, started thegrand regime of Chinna Azhagiya Singhar with a bang.

· SWAMI'S ONLY REGRET: Our Swami confided in a private conversation that he did not mind giving upall else. But, his only regret was that he would be missing the devotedSrOthas who were attending his KaalakshEpams with such keen interest. He openlyexpressed "Where will I get such SrOthas like you? Even if there are a few,my preoccupations with the affairs of the MaTam will not let me takeKaalskshEpam classes as I have been doing ". But, today, millions of Sishyasacross the world are listening to his Pravachanams through Tele conferencesWhat was our “private privilege” so far has now become “public property” andrightly so.

· SWAMI'S TIRUNAKSHATRAMIt was the 65th Tirunakshatram of our Swami on 14th December 1991,the firstTirunakshatram celebrated after his assuming Sanyaasam. It was celebrated ina grand fashion befitting a Raja-Rishi he had become. When he heard that I wascoming, he wrote a personal letter asking me to come via Maduraantakam to bringMelpakkam Swami for the function.

· VEENA RECITAL BY SRI SRIRANGAM RANGARAJANThat night, Sri Srirangam Rangarajan who used to render a VeeNa recital everynight to Lord Ranganatha at the temple at the time of AravaNai, gave a specialconcert in honor of our Swami. During the course of the recital, the VaiNikaplayed a song from VibhishaNa SaraNaagathi, a kriti by Nerur Srinivasachariar (adisciple of the famous Poochi Srinivasa Iyengar). My father and this NerurSwami were co-tenants when I was a school boy and therefore, I could identifythe Kriti as that of Nerur Swami and asked our Swami about it. Immediately, hepointed to a lady who was sitting nearby and told me that she was the daughterof Nerur Swami, Sriranganayaki by name. We used to call her "Seerangi", whom Ihad not met for over several decades. She was in her seventies then, but wequickly recognized each other. As I was the General Secretary of "SeniorCitizens' Council, Madras", Swami asked me if I could organize a Veena concertof Sri Rangarajan under the auspices of our Council.

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· "I WANT SOMEONE LIKE YOU"Swami said to me "I want someone like you during my Sanchaarams to look afterthe accounts and help me in other matters also. But, I told him that since allmy children were settled in USA and being a widower, they would not like me tobe alone in India and they insisted on my coming to America, he reluctantlyconsented. "You may go to America, if that is convenient for you. But, whenyou go there you should propagate our Siddhaantam. I know you will say nothingthat is repugnant to the doctrines of our Siddhaantam". He was so kind as to draftan Introduction to the Aastikas here to help me "as a noble service to AhObilaMutt". This is the Introduction, which has been published in MalOlan Net,Bhakti archives and Saranaagathi Journal, as all of you know. And, he granted me his mandate to do this, with “Anugraha Mantraakshadai”

· FOREWORD FOR "HINDUISM REDISCOVERED" When I wrote my book "Hinduism Rediscovered ", I submitted the manuscripts toour Swami. He had it reviewed by a panel of experts in our Siddhaantam and gavea foreword and directed Sri R. Devanathan (in charge of Hyderabad unit ofAhObila Matam and publisher of Telugu edition of Narasimhapriya, to arrange for its publication in the main Narasimha priya journal. But, as some serials were being featuredand there was acute space constraint, and as some rare works of Poorvaachaaryaswere pending to be reprinted, I was told that it would take quite sometimebefore this could be taken up and I was asked to wait. I hoped someday, theMaTam would be able to publish the book. Meanwhile, I had serialized thechapters in the SDDS journal Vols.1 and 2 for the information of our membersand for correcting any errors and omissions so that an error-free editioncould be published if and when the time came. I am happy to receive great encouragement and valuable suggestions from one and all. This greatly helped me in bringing out the book in its final shape under the title “Hinduism Rediscovered” n March 2004 during and released by asmad Achaaryan ParavaakkOTTai Srimad AnDavan, thanks especially to “The Tiruvenktam Group” Kuwait who offered to publish the book.

· AS CHINNA JEEYAR: (1) We saw that as Chinna Jeeyar, our Swami had the baaghyam of doing Aradhanato MalOlan from Day One. He started doing SamaasrayaNam and BharaNyasam alsofrom Day One.(2) Periya Azhagiya Singhar gave him a box and authorized him to keep allSambhavanais he received as Chinna Jeeyar. Within a short while, our Swamicollected 12 lakhs of Rupees and wiped out the entire outstanding debts of theMaTam.(3) One of the most important things he did was to do “Achidra AswamedhaPaaraayaNam” on the Ekaadasi day followed by “KaaTaka PaaraayaNam” on the Dwaadasi day.Poundarikapuram Andavan Swami once remarked that the PaaraayaNam has the effectof doing a Aswamedha yaagam itself as indicated by the Sloka- Japyeneiva tu Samsidhyeth braahmanena atra na samsayah / Kuryaadanyany vaa kuryaad maitro braahmana Uchyate // Meaning "Whether a Brahmin does or does not perform the relevant Yagnam, the veryPaaraayaNam of the Mantras have the effect of giving the fruits of performingthe Yagnam". We see how successful our Swami has been and perhaps thisPaaraayaNam has had its effect, apart from his own other qualifications.(4) It is usual for all Sannyasis to start their regime with KaalskshEpam onAahnika Grantham. Having already authored a monumental work on the subject,naturally, our Swami also started with Pravachanams on Ahnikam.(5) He is the first Chinna Jeeyar to start a Sanchaaram alone. The maidenSanchaaram of our Swami as Chinna Jeeyar was to Tirucherai SamprOkshaNam towhich Periya Azhagiya Singhar deputed him to perform.

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· PERIYA AZHAGIYA SINGHAR'S ASCENT TO VAIKUNTAM:On 16th August 1992, the Periya Azhagiya Singhar attained Paramapadam. Thewhole Srivaishnava Samooham was steeped in grief. Our Swami arranged for thefinal rites of the Mahaan befitting the personality, which towered as high asthe Rajagopuram built by him and dedicated to Sri Ranganatha. Our Swamiperformed the Maha Araadhanam, PaarvaNa Sraaddham, Dwaadasa Araadhanam etc. in afitting manner on the 9, 10 and 11 of Angirasa AvaNi for the 44th PaTTamJeeyar.

· PATTABHISHEKAM: The PaTTaabhishEkam of our Prakritam Jeeyar 45th Azhagiya Singhar took place onAvaNi 8th (Monday). After Paanaga Aradhanai at night, at the request of theSishyas, our Swami ascended the ivory palanquin belonging to the MaTam andcame round the Chitrai Veedhis and performed "PaTTina PravEsam". It was longsince a similar PaTTina PravEsam had taken place and the people who hadthronged the streets felt very much blessed.It was on the 12th AvaNi (28th August 1992) Azhagiya Singhar arranged on agrand scale Saatrumurai with Periya Perumal Periya GOshTi. The Iyal SatrumuraiGOshTi went round the streets of Srirangam and Ijyaa Araadhanam, TadheeyaAraadhanam and Upanyaasams followed.As they hail in England, "The King is dead. Long live the King" - a gloriouschapter came to a close and another glorious chapter began in the history ofAhObila MaTam.

SWAMI'S SANCHARAMS· Once when our Swami came to know that I had the Baaghyam of completing 105out of the 106 Divya Desams one could visit with this physical body, (thesolitary one left out at that time was Dwaraka), he remarked “When am I goingto visit all the Divya dEsams?" Today, he is more than fulfilling his desire. Tirumangai Azhwar did Mangala Aasaasanam to only 86 out of the 108 Divyadesams.But, our Swami would seem to excel all Azhwars. The restless Sancharam he hasundertaken during these years is really incredible. It would not be anexaggeration to say that, not only those consecrated by Azhwars, but also so manyPerumaaLs are upgrading the status of their stations to Divya dEsams, thanks tothe Mangala Aasaasanam of our Swami. In fact, a mere listing of the places ourSwami visited would become a huge compendium. Therefore, I propose to referonly to a few of these in which I had occasion to pay my obeisance to ourSwami mentioning a few incidents that happened and gems that he had uttered onthose occasions. · No wonder, the 44th PaTTam Azhagiya Singhar felt that more than the buildingof the RajagOpuram, his greatest achievement was nominating our Swami tosucceed him. This has been chronicled on page 8 of Narasimhapriya, November1991 issue (PrajOtpatti Kaartigai issue)

· AHOBILAM March 4th to 9th, 1993: I had returned from U.S.A. to Madras in March 1993. I joined the Vanload ofmembers of KaalskshEpam GOshTi arranged by late Sri Ravindra KaNNan (Retd. Judge ofMadras High Court and my classmate in the KaalskshEpam classes of our Swami) togo to AhObilam where our Swami was holding the Serthi Sevai of MalOlanMoolavar and Utsavar for the second time. A funny thing happened. I met one ofmy cousin sisters with whom I had lost contact for over 50 years. It was athrilling family reunion. Our Swami was doing Abigamana Araadanam. He least expected my presence there.Normally, he would not talk to anyone during this event. To the astonishmentof everyone around, he asked when I came back from USA and enquired about myfamily. Later, when Abigamana Prasaadam was served, I was sitting near our Swami. Whenhe noticed the Parichaarakar distributing just a little Prasaadam in my hands,to my bewilderment, our Swami openly pulled him up saying, “Do you know whohe is? He has come all the way from America." and ordered him to offer memore. The Parichaarakar gave a big ball of food (like what is given to an

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elephant!)

· AT BANGALORE ON 5th APRIL 1993:Our Swami was camping at the home of Sri S.M.S.Chari. Our Swami introduced meto late Sri R.K.Swami who had come there and also spared me quite a time discussing verymany things.

· AT TIRUVALLIKKENI ON 20th February 1994: During the reception accorded to him at the Marina Beach, he said he felt asif he had come back to his "Pirandha Agam" - ' home sweet home '. This was thefirst time he had returned to Madras after a long KshEtraaDanam.

· AT BESANTNAGAR ON 8th and 9th April 1994:It was an unscheduled visit when he was accorded a reception at theBesantnagar Community hall, on the first day. Not all the members ofKaalskshEpam GOshTi could attend due to short notice. Our Swami jocularlyremarked "SaTaari vaithu yenakku kai valikkap pOgirathe yenruthaan romba paervaravillai pOlirukku" -'perhaps out of concern that my hand should not getache by placing SaTaari, not many have turned up". The next day, the hall wasoverflowing with his dear Sishyas who had come to know of his arrival.

· AT MY RESIDENCE FOR DOLAI ON 9th April 1994: Our home was blessed with his "PonnaDi Saathuthal" when he performed DOlai. My2nd son and his wife had married just a few days earlier. Drawing a parallelfrom a domestic scene, he advised how for pleasing the husband, a wife wasrespectful to his parents, the Lord would be more pleased only when respect isaccorded to those close to Him (i.e.) Bhaagavatas.

· AT TIRUMALAI ON 15th MARCH 1997: He was camping there for the Annamaachaarya Vardhanti Celebrations. Again, herecognized me and enquired about our activities in America.

· AT TIRUKKALLAM ON 2nd MAY 1997:Sri K.G. Krishnan took my sister and me for her BharaNyaasam. Swami gave a talk in which he said that normally people celebrate their birthdays with great éclat, not realizing that one more year had been snatched away from them. But, in his case, he felt as if he should celebrate birthdays more frequently because of the Samarpanai that flows into thecoffers for the Kainkaryam of Emperumaan. He also said that though some rates had been fixed for other services like DOlai, no fee was fixed for BharaNyaasam because it is the duty of the Acharya NOT to expect a return for this. And, whatever was offered was accepted without question.

· AT TIRUVALLUR ON THE SAME EVENING: The Swami asked us to follow him to TiruvaLLur where he was going to releasethe Audio Cassette of “Sri Veeraraghava Suprabatham". I was pleasantlysurprised when he asked someone to fetch me to receive the first copy of theCassette along with Sri K.G. Krishnan.

· AT BOMBAY ON 8th DECEMBER 1997:When I went to India for completing the visit to Nava Dwaaraka, the first thingI did was to fly to Bombay to attend the Tirunakshatram of our Swami atChembur mutt premises. Here he presented me a Souvenir titled "AzhagiyaSinghar's VijayaYatra" brought out by Sri K.S. Tirumalai, Secretary, Azhagiya SingharReception Committee, New Delhi. (This Tirumalai's wife is also my cousinsister, and the sister of the one whom I met during my AhObilam trip mentionedabove and whom I was meeting after about 50 years!). I had the Baaghyam of offering my "DanDam Samarpithal" on various other occasions and in various places. For want of space, I am omitting these.

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· INTRA CITY TRAVELS: In a sense, the Sanchaarams of our Swami had started long before he becameChinna Jeeyar. On a single day, he was delivering KaalskshEpams in differentplaces separated far and wide from one end of the city to another or even asuburb, leaving hardly any time to commute. Despite this, he would move withbewildering rapidity and keep up the times scheduled in each place. This,without upsetting his AnushTaanams! I have myself traveled with him on severaloccasions by Autorikshaws and sometimes by cars provided by one or the otherof his numerous Sishyas. Now, the role is reversed. When I went to Bombay with some other Sishyasfor his Tirunakshatram in December 1997, he had sent the MaTam van to pick us up from the Airport to the MaTam at Chembur.

· INTER CITY TRAVELS: The rapidity with which he hops in his Sanchaarams nowadays from one city toanother is only too well known. Like Trivikrama who measured the three worlds,he seems to measure and fill every nook and corner of Bhartavarsha to blessus all.

· INTERCONTINENTAL?May be, one day, let us hope, that he commutes between different countriesbecause America would certainly have come within the compass of the Lord'smeasurement! Indeed, he belongs to the entire World and we also desire toenjoy his proximity!

· SRI RAMA AND SWAMI:Sri Rama was sorry to find the Maharishis walking up to him (PadbhyaamAbhigamaaschaiva) and preferred himself to reach them. Our Swami seems to havethis inner urge and Vaatsalyam to reach us all out, as evidenced by theexcitement he and we experienced during his recent Anugraha BaashaNam.

· KALIYUGA RISHYASRINGAR:Like Rishya Sringar who brought rains wherever he went, when our Swami wentonce for delivering a discourse on ViraaTa Parvam, torrential rains lashed thedrought affected Tirupati.

· SWAMI'S ADMINISTRATIVE ACUMEN· FINANCIAL CONTROL: The manner in which he manages the affairs of the empire he presides overneeds no introduction. In the olden days, accounting of Sambavanais was leftin the hands of subordinates. After Swami took over, this is done under hisstrict personal supervision. Perhaps, “Control of finances” goes hand in handwith “Control of Indriyas” in the case of our Swami! Raising the financialposition of the Matam from a deep minus to an incredible plus within such ashort period bears ample testimony to this miracle.

· PANCHAMRITAM: In the olden days, subordinates used to handle the fruits and other offeringsin kind offered by the Sishyas. Our Swami so vigilantly ensures that whetherit is Panchaamritam or any other Prasaadam, it reaches the very last individualstanding at the farthest end of the milling crowd. Such is his concern for thelowliest and the last of his devotees.

· SRAMA DAKSHINAI TO KAINKARYAPARAS: His raising the Srama Dakshinai (Salary) of Kainkaryaparas when the financialposition of the MaTam was in doldrums proves not only his concern for them butalso his courage and confidence in raising the funds needed.

· CAN A YATHI BE INTERESTED IN MONEY / WEALTH?

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No. Why Yathi alone? None should be. Of course, more so in the case of aSannyasi. It is not the acquisition itself but the way it is earned and moreimportantly, how it is expended that makes or mars the exercise. Saastras permitboth acquisition and expending, if they are done on dharmic lines. This isespecially so in the case of a Raja-Rishi who has to administer an empire. Mahaa kavi KaaLidaasa glorifies King Dileepan as a just and fair ruler because like theSun, which absorbs water from the ocean and showers on parched earth, helevied taxes from 'each according to his capacity' and distributed the wealthto 'each according to his needs'. Similarly, our Swami raises funds from thosewho can afford and spends on Narasimha Araadhana, maintenance of parijanas,Tadheeya Araadhanas, development of Veda PaaTasaalas, celebration of theTirunakshatrams of Azhwars and Achaaryas, conduct of Utsavams, renovation ofTemples and MaTam premises for the benefit of Sevaarthis and helping those indire distress who come to him for help - both spiritual and material and in the general welfare of the community.

· KAVACHAMS FOR PRAHLADA VARADANOne of the many Kainkaryams our Swami did is the SamarpaNam of goldenKavachams for the Abhaya Hastam, Sanku, Chakram, Gadhai and Tiruvadigal forPrahlaada Varadan at AhObilam. Sri Setlur Srivatsankachariar Swami comments that SriNarasimhan should be feeling regret why he displayed only 4 hands. "If asKaliyan sang "Alli maathar pulga ninra aayiram thoLuDaiyaan", I had displayed1000 hands and 1000 feet (Sahasra-paad), our Swami would have adorned all ofthem with golden Kavachams”!

OUR SWAMI'S ACHIEVEMENTSOur Swami's achievements are too numerous andtoo well known to be recounted here. To mention a few-· Removal of illegal occupation of Mutt properties by anti social elements· Repurchase of valuable properties sold out earlier almost for a song.· SAVE TRUST: (Sahasrabahu Adhyaapaka and Vedic Endowment Trust.· SMART TRUST (Sri MalOla Academy and Redux Trust)· SAMRAT TRUST (Sri AhObila Mutt's Renovation and Tirunakshatra Foundation· SVRC (Sri Visishtadvaita Research Center's Publications).· ANNA DAANA TRUST· Sri Nrisimha Priya Trust· MalOla Vidwat Sadas· KalyaNa Abhivardhini Sabha at Madurantakam· Silver ManTapams· AhObila Ther (Chariot) · Desilting of PushkaraNi at AhObilam and many many more.

· WHAT IS SO SPECIAL ABOUT AHOBILAM?Another significance relating to the time factor associated with this KshEtram(to which our MaTam is connected so intimately) is this: Narsimha Avataara is known to have taken place in the first of all the yugas-Krita Yuga. Swami Desikan points out in his own unique style how the pillar inthe Asura's palace, gave birth to Sriman Narayana in his form of Narasimha andthus became the grandmother of the four faced Brahma himself (who is the sonof Perumal, as you all know)"Yaa Kaachit Sahasaa Mahaasura Griha Sthoonaa Pithaamahee Abooth" The hoary past of this KshEtram can be understood from this. And, ourassociation with our Azhagiyasinghar links us up to this time immemorial.

· KURAI ONRUM ILLAATHA GOVINDANUM ARIVU ONRUM ILLATHA AAICHIYARUMIt is really foolhardy on my part (Seelam Illaa Siriyan and Arivu Onrum Illaatha

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Aayan) to attempt to talk about one who is totally blemishless (Kurai Onrum Illaatha Govindan) whose KalyaNa GuNas are legion (AsankhyEya). I know that it is an impossible task like the Vedas that attempted to praise the Lord but could not do so andreturned crestfallen -"Yatho Vaachaa Nivartante Apraapya Manasaa Saha". I admit my incapacity and seek forgiveness from the Achaarya for my temerity.

· BUT, WHY THEN SHOULD I ATTEMPT AT ALL?Like ILayazhwar who pleaded with Lord Rama "Gunair daasyam upaagatah", I havebecome a slave to these very KalyaNa guNas that I could not resist attempting,though it is like showing "Kalpoora Harathi" to the blazing Sun and liketrying to measure the waters of the ocean with just a teaspoon!

MY GRATITUDE TO MY ACHARYASaastras say that one cannot repay the debt of gratitude to one's Achaarya.Except for remembering and basking in the memories of his immeasurableUpakaarams in constantly showering his Anugraham on me, without regard to myqualification to deserve it (like for example, spontaneously offering prayersto Laksminarasimhan and rushing Mantra Akshadai immediately on hearing of myailment in January 1998).Dasoham Anbil Ramaswamy

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