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Yadavaprakasha

Yadavaprakasha is traditionally known as an early teacher of Ramanuja (1017-1137 CE), and they had differences in their interpretations of Advaita Vedanta. Ramanuja, in particular, emphasized the importance of devotion (bhakti) along with knowledge (jnana) in the pursuit of spiritual realization, which differed from the more intellectual and dry approach advocated by Yadava Prakasa.

Due to Ramanuja's intellectual inclination, he diverged from the austere interpretation of the Upanishads that lacked a focus on bhakti or devotion to God, leading to disagreements. Yadavaprakasha had intended to have Ramanuja submerged in the Ganga River while on a pilgrimage, but Ramanuja successfully evaded this scheme. The story about Yadavaprakasha planning harm to Ramanuja during a pilgrimage is not universally accepted in all historical accounts, and it may be considered as a part of the legendary narrative surrounding Ramanuja's life.

The information about Yadavaprakasha becoming a disciple of Ramanuja under the name Govindadasa and composing the book "Yatidharmasamuccaya" is intriguing. However, historical accuracy can be challenging to ascertain, and these details might be part of the hagiographical tradition that often surrounds the lives of religious figures.

The key point to note is that Ramanuja and Yadavaprakasha did have philosophical differences, and Ramanuja went on to develop the Vishishtadvaita school of Vedanta, which incorporates both devotion and knowledge in the pursuit of spiritual understanding. The historical details may vary in different accounts, and it's essential to approach them with a critical perspective.