Sri Vyasa Tirtha (Vyasaraja or Vyajasatirtha) was one of the greatest saints, philosophers, and scholars of the Dvaita Vedanta tradition founded by Madhvacharya. Vyasaraja Aradhana is the Punyadina or the death anniversary of the pious soul. Vyasaraja Aradhane 2027 date is March 25. Annually the Aradhane is observed on the Krishna Paksha Tritiya Tithi in Phalgun month as per traditional Hindu calendar followed in Karnataka.
He lived during the height of the Vijayanagara Empire and played an important role in strengthening Hindu philosophy, religion, and culture in South India. Born as Yatiraja in Bannur near Mysore, he later became the 12th pontiff (Pithadhipati) of the Madhva tradition under the guidance of his guru Brahmanya Tirtha.
Sri Vyasa Tirtha was a brilliant scholar who studied deeply under Sripadaraja and later became the spiritual advisor to several Vijayanagara kings, including the famous emperor Krishnadevaraya. Through his philosophical works, debates, and teachings, he strengthened the foundations of Dvaita philosophy and defended it against other schools of thought.
Apart from philosophy, he also made significant contributions to religion, education, and music. He guided great saints such as Purandara Dasa and Kanaka Dasa, who helped spread devotion among the common people. Revered as a saint, teacher, and cultural leader, Sri Vyasa Tirtha remains one of the most influential figures in the spiritual and intellectual history of South India.
Important Facts About Vyasaraja
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Birth name: Yatiraja
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Birthplace: Bannur near Mysore on April 22, 1447
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Parents: Ballanna Sumati and Akkamma
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Lineage: Shastika Vamsha, Kashyapa Gotra
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Guru: Brahmanya Tirtha
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Spiritual lineage: Follower of the philosophy of Madhvacharya
Religious Role
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Became the 12th Pithadhipati (pontiff) of the Madhva order in 1467.
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Initiated into sainthood at Abburu on the banks of the Kanva river.
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Studied Madhva philosophy for 12 years under Sripadaraja.
Role in Vijayanagara Empire
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Served as spiritual advisor (Kulaguru) to several rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire.
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Guided kings such as:
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Saluva Narasimha
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Vira Narasimha
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Krishnadevaraya
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Achyuta Deva Raya
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Major Religious Contributions
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Installed 732 Hanuman idols across the empire for spiritual protection.
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The first was the famous Yantroddharaka Hanuman at Hampi.
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Established the Vishvapavana Matha, a major center of learning.
Philosophical Contributions
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Strengthened Dvaita Vedanta through debates and writings.
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His three major philosophical works (Vyasa Traya):
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Nyayamrita
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Tatparya Chandrika
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Tarka Tandava
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Cultural Contributions
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Played a key role in the early development of Carnatic music.
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Guru of the legendary composer Purandara Dasa.
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Also associated with the saint-poet Kanaka Dasa.
Personality and Social Work
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Known for scholarly debates with philosophers across India.
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Used royal patronage to:
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build tanks like Vyasa Samudra
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establish rest houses (chatras) for travellers.
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Donated gifts and wealth received from kings to scholars and the needy.
Final Years
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Appointed Sri Srinivasa Tirtha as his successor.
He attained the Lord’s abode while performing Hari Dhyana (meditation on the Lord), just as described by Purandara Dasa. (on March 8, 1539)
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His Brindavana is located at Navabrindavana near Hampi.