Narahari Tirtha (1243 – 1333 CE) was a prominent Dvaita philosopher, scholar, and statesman, known for his contributions to the Haridasa movement. As one of the disciples of Madhvacharya, he played a crucial role in disseminating the philosophy of Madhva in the region. Sri Narahari Tirtha Aradhana is the Punyadina or the death anniversary of the pious soul. Sri Narahari Tirtha Aradhana 2025 date is January 21.
Narahari's influence extended not only through his scholarly
works but also through his political and religious endeavors.
In addition to being a minister to the Eastern Ganga rulers,
Narahari served as the pontiff of the Madhvacharya matha. His political acumen
was evident during his regency for Narasimha Deva II before his ordination as a
monk. Under his leadership, the Simhachalam temple underwent a transformation
into a renowned educational institution and a significant religious center for
Vaishnavism.
One of Narahari's notable achievements was the construction of the Yogananda Narasimha Temple in Srikurmam, where he successfully defended the city from external threats. Records suggest that he enjoyed patronage from rulers like Bhanudeva I and Narasimha Deva II, allowing him to spread Madhva's philosophy throughout Kalinga.
Narahari's literary contributions include the treatise
"Bhava Prakashika," a commentary on the Gita Bhashya of Madhva. This
work is highly regarded in the Dvaita canon and has been referenced by
subsequent scholars like Jayatirtha and Raghavendra Tirtha. Notably, Narahari's
approach involved expanding on obscure passages in the source text and offering
critiques of the commentaries by Adi Shankaracharya and Sri Ramanujacharya.
Beyond his scholarly pursuits, Narahari, along with
Sripadaraja, played a pivotal role in the Haridasa movement. They composed
songs and hymns in the vernacular Kannada language, simplifying Madhva's
teachings for wider dissemination. This musical expression became a significant
component of the movement, reaching people in a more accessible and relatable
manner.
Narahari's cultural contributions extended to the realm of
performing arts, as he is traditionally considered the founder of Yakshagana
and Bayalaata. The latter is a dance form that continues to thrive in parts of
Karnataka and Kasargod in present-day Kerala, showcasing the enduring impact of
Narahari's multifaceted legacy.
Today, his mortal remains are honored at Charkratirtha near
Hampi, preserving the memory of a scholar, statesman, and spiritual leader
whose influence spanned across various domains.
Sri Narahari Tirtha Aradhana, the Punyadina or the death anniversary, is annually observed on Paush Krishna Paksha Saptami tithi or the seventh day during the waning or dark phase of moon in Paush month as per traditional Kannada Hindu lunar calendar followed in Karnataka.