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Story Of Sri Goshti Purna And Sri Ramanuja

The story of Sri Goshti Purna and Sri Ramanuja is a tale of spiritual learning, generosity, and selflessness.

In the village of Tirukottiyur, Sri Goshti Purna, a renowned scholar, held the knowledge of the sacred Thirumantra (Ashtaksharimantra). Sri Ramanuja, guided by his Guru Sri Periya Nambi, sought to learn this mantra from Goshti Purna. However, despite repeated visits, Goshti Purna showed no interest in imparting the knowledge to Ramanuja, turning him away each time.

Undeterred, Ramanuja persisted, making seventeen futile attempts to acquire the sacred mantra. Disheartened by his failures, he continued his efforts, driven by a deep desire to learn and share the mantra for the welfare of humanity.

On his eighteenth visit, Goshti Purna relented and agreed to teach Ramanuja the Thirumantra. But he sternly warned Ramanuja not to disclose it to anyone else. However, upon receiving the mantra, Ramanuja realized that the welfare of others outweighed personal selfishness.

With noble intentions, Ramanuja ascended the temple gopuram and proclaimed the powerful Ashtaksharimantra, "Om Namo Narayanaya," to the gathered people, disregarding Goshti Purna's instructions.

Enraged by Ramanuja's actions, Goshti Purna admonished him, warning of dire consequences and impending damnation. In response, Ramanuja expressed his willingness to face damnation if it meant helping others attain salvation through the mantra.

Realizing his error, Goshti Purna acknowledged Ramanuja's selflessness and generosity. Overcome with remorse and admiration, he embraced Ramanuja joyfully and bestowed upon him the title of 'Emperumanar,' recognizing his unique sacrifice and devotion to the welfare of humanity.

Thus, the story of Sri Goshti Purna and Sri Ramanuja highlights the transformative power of selfless acts and the profound impact of compassion and generosity on spiritual enlightenment and communal well-being.