Books on Saints of India

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : V S Ramanan
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2016
  
• Pages : 197
  
• Weight : 390gm.
  
• Size : 9.5 x 5.5 x 0.6 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 8182881161
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8182881167

Description:

This abridged edition contains the full repertoire of daily recitation at Sri Ramanasramam. While it includes devotional hymns written by devotees about Sri Bhagavan, it principally consists of the original Tamil poetry of the Master himself. Presented in roman script with diacritical marks and a pronunciation guide, this compendium is sure to prove invaluable not only for those who want to chant Sri Ramana's verses but also for those who long to drink in evermore deeply the boundless wisdom they contain.

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : Arthur Osborne
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2001
  
• Pages : 217
  
• Weight : 480gm.
  
• Size : 6.1 x 9.1 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 8188225207
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8188225200

Description:

This autobiographical account of Arthur Osborne features his life and the impact that Ramana Maharshi made on his life and family.

"The words of this sage still flame out in my memory like beacon lights. "I pluck golden fruit from rare meetings with wise men" wrote trans-Atlantic Emerson in his diary, and it is certain that I plucked whole basketfuls during my talks with this man. Our best philosophers of Europe could not hold a candle to him..." Such was the praise by Paul Brunton,who became one of the ardent devotees of Sri Ramana Maharshi. Another such,Arthur Osborne,decided to settle down at Tiruvannamalai,where the Ashram of Sri Ramana Maharshi is located.He has written several books about his spiritual experiences. This book recounts the words of the great Sage. "There is one flak of the mountain where the ascent is sheer,with no pleasant groves to rest in on the way,where to compensate for this,the path is direct and crest already visible from the plains below and throughout the ascent.This is the direct path taught by Bhagavan." Read on and enjoy the book.

About the Author

Arthur osborne well known to Amazon visitors as the famous author of 'Ramana Maharshi and the path of self-knowledge' and also as the Editor of the "Collected works of Ramana Maharshi".An ardent devoteee he lived on the last twenty five years of his life in the Asram.

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : K. LAKSHMANA SARMA
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2002
  
• Pages : 281
  
• Weight : 550gm.
  
• Size : 8.3 x 5.1 x 1.2 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 8188018201
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8188018208

Description:

This book is based largely on two Sanskrit works of Lakshmana Sarma, Sri Ramana Hridayam and Guru Ramana Vachana Mala. The status of the world, the soul, the egoless state and merits of devotion are all lucidly explained so as to help the serious seeker understand the teaching of Sri Bhagavan. 

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2019
  
• Pages : 308
  
• Weight : 570gm.
  
• Size : 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.8 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 8182881765
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8182881761

Description:

This book in the life story of Kavyakantha Ganapati Muni reveals this Mahamanava (great man) as a Mahatapasvi, Mahakavi, Mahavidvan and Mahabhakta. He was indubitably a great tapasvin, poet, scholar and devotee extraordinary. His life of intense penance found its fulcrum the moment he met Ramana Bhagavan at Virupaksha Cave, when he was initiated into the meaning of tapas. Never did a greater poet-devotee meet a greater jnani-sadguru. The Muni instantly recognizing the young Swami's unique greatness, named him Bhagavan Sri Ramana Maharshi.

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : Kunjuswami
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2015
  
• Pages : 193
  
• Weight : 450gm.
  
• Size : 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.5 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 8188018996
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8188018994

Description:

This book provides a rare first-hand account of the early days of Sri Ramanashramam and the life at Skandashramam. The author imbibed the teachings of Sri Ramana to his heart and dedicated his life to their fulfillment. Therefore it features his personal experience while living at the ashrams in the presence of Rama Maharshi.

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : Suri Nagamma
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2011
  
• Pages : 744
  
• Weight : 930gm.
  
• Size : 8.7 x 5.6 x 1.3 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 8182881366
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8182881365

Description:

This present volume contains the two books published previously under the same author
Letters from Sri Ramanasramam and
Letters and Recollections from Sri Ramanasramam.

By Suri Nagamma. Includes 241 letters from the original Volumes 1 and 2 and incorporates the 31 letters formerly published in 'Letters from and Recollections of Sri Ramanasramam'. These letters Suri Nagamma wrote to her brother from Sri Ramanasramam are translated by D.S.Sastri. The author, who was a beloved devotee of the Master, wonderfully captures the unique personality of the Sage, while graphically recording many incidents in the Old Hall. The Maharshi encouraged her in this writing and specifically related many incidents and teachings to her so they could be recorded.744pp

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : Sri Ramana Sannidhi Murai
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2006
  
• Pages : 176
  
• Weight : 500gm.
  
• Size :
  
• ISBN-13: 9788100000668

Description:

It is the English translation of Sri Ramana Sannidhi Murai by Poet Sri Muruganar in Tamil, extolling the greatness and the grace that one gets at the presence of Sri Ramana Maharshi.

The foremost duty of the Guru of a fully dedicated aspirant is to live the Master's teaching in such a way that his own flowering benefits not only himself but radiates its fragrance for all to imbibe. Muruganar's two main works, Guru Vachaka Kovai(The Garland of Guru,s sayings) and Sri Ramana Sannidhia Murai(Homage to the presence, stand alone as pillars to Jnana and bhakti.This books offers 473 verses of HOmage to the Presence. The work was translated into English by Professor Swaminathan.

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : Sri Ramana Maharshi
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2018
  
• Pages : 663
  
• Weight : 1590gm.
• Size : 9 × 6 × 0.5 in
• ISBN-10: 8182882729
  
• ISBN-13: 9788182882720

Description:

It is the English translation of Sri Ramana Sannidhi Murai by Poet Sri Muruganar in Tamil, extolling the greatness and the grace that one gets at the presence of Sri Ramana Maharshi.

Compilation of Sanskrit texts written by Bhagavan in his own handwriting. English translation is not present except for the text Arunachala Pancaratna Vartikam (Commentary on Arunachala Pancharatran)

This compilation is divided into two parts. Part one contains mainly the the Glory of Aruṇācala from ancient purāṇas such as Skanda – Mahā Purāṇam and the Upa-Purāṇam, Śiva Mahā Purāṇam, Śiva Bhakta Vilāsam etc. Part two contains Bhagavān’s and others’ Sanskrit compositions apart from many collection of His handwriting.

The book contains many gems like Arunachala Pancaratna Vartikam (Commentary on Arunachala Pancharatran) of Lakshmana Sarma with Bhagavan’s addition to make it into 108 verses. For this text, the English and Tamil equivalents in Bhagavan’s handwriting are also presented. Texts like Siva Jnana Bodham, selections from Yoga Vasishta are also present.

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : Bharati Mirchandani
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2014
  
• Pages : 110
  
• Weight : 660gm.
  
• Size : 9.1 x 8.8 x 0.3 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 8182880297
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8182880290

Description:

This book is a selection of Sri Ramana’s teachings arranged with beautiful photographs and is intended to help the mind turn inward and abide in the deep silence awaiting each of us.

In 1994,the first Westerner ever to visit Sri Ramana Maharshi had a profound experience and made an equally profound observation:"For half an hour I looked into the Maharshi's eyes,which never changed their expression of deep contemplation.I began to realize somewhat that the body is the temple of the Holy Ghost.I could only feel his body was not the man,it was the instrument of God--merely a sitting corpse from which God was radiating terrifically--"God radiating terrifically" is the experience of innumerable seekers who sought the Maharshi's presence then and now.The Divine presence continues to bring hope,solace,faith,inspiration,and genuine spiritual experience to people of all cultures and creeds.And if the mirror of our soul is not adequately clean to perfectly reflect that eternal Divine Presence,the Maharshi has also provided us with a simple,direct teaching to practice for opening our heart to the experience of the one self. In preparing this pictorial book,Bharati Mirchandani has exquisitely harmonized both these incomparable aspects of Sri Ramana Maharshi--his presence and his teachings.Together with portraits,which reperesent the many enhancing divine moods of the sage,scenes from the captivating environs of Arunachala,his blessed abode,have been interpolated to create a work of unususal beauty and profoundity.This subtle art of weaving together photos and quaotations in complementary manner delightfully brings home the Master's message. All the other titles related to sri Ramana Maharshi are best sellers on amazon and this book is a must for every follower.

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : Arthur Osborne
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2018
  
• Pages : 318
  
• Weight : 580gm.
  
• Size : 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.9 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 818288148X
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8182881488

Description:

This book consists of a number of selected writings of Arthur Osborne, an ardent devotee of Sri Ramana Maharshi. Across varied topics such as philosophy, devotion, biographical writings, this book reflects totally on the persona of a great saint. It has a part which contains poems all reflecting on numerous religious, ethical and devotional aspects

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2001
  
• Pages : 179
  
• Weight : 450gm.
• ISBN-10: 8188225002
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8188225002

Description:

It is a fresh English rendering of some of the poems of Ramana Maharshi, originally written in Tamil. These poems are the treasure house of his philosophical wisdom, highlighting his pursuit of jnana marga.

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : Prof. Laxmi Narain
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2007
  
• Pages : 460
  
• Weight : 850gm.
  
• Size : 7.9 x 5.5 x 1.6 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 8190353802
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8190353809

Description:

The book presents a varied collection of inspiring and spiritually-elevating accounts by 202 persons, including 33 foreigners from across the globe, who visited / interacted with Sri Ramana Maharshi (1879¬1950) or had an opportunity to serve / live with him. Each contribution is singular and sheds invaluable light on the uniqueness of the Maharshi.

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : V Ganesan
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2003
  
• Pages : 151
  
• Weight : 400gm.
  
• Size : 8.4 x 5.4 x 0.4 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 8188225843
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8188225842

Description:

An earnest effort is made here to draw the seeker back to the one and only 'practice' our Master insisted on: 'Self-enquiry'. The seeker is thus exposed to the paramount importance, and true significance of treading the "Path of Sri Ramana".

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : A. Devararaja Mudaliar
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2002
  
• Pages : 402
  
• Weight : 690gm.
  
• Size : 6.1 x 9.1 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 8188018821
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8188018826

Description:

It is a day to day account of a devotee who lived more than 22 years with Sri Ramana Maharshi. This book touches upoon all the aspects of the sage’s life.

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2018
  
• Pages : 3367
  
• Weight : 4.100kg.
  
• ISBN-10: 818288277X
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8182882775

Description:

This set of books combines the contents of biography, collected works, experiences of devotees, reminiscences and extensive portions of dialogues from books such as Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi, Letters from Sri Ramanasramam, Day by Day with Bhaga van, Guru Vachaka Kovai and other books. It also includes a set of 108 articles selected from
Call Divine and the Mountain Path by devotees detailing their unique personal experience.

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : V S Ramanan
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2019
  
• Pages : 108
  
• Weight : 640gm.
  
• Size : 23.7 x 22.8 x 1 cm
  
• ISBN-10: 8182882648
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8182882645

Description:

The book is a tribute to the Holy Hill, Arunachala. It probes to find answers to questions such as what is Arunachala if not our own self? What is it to hold the lingam of the Lord if not to see the Absolute that dwells as Atman within each person?

Specification:

• Publisher : Sri Ramanasramam
  
• by : Sadhu Arunachala (A. W. Chadwick)
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2013
  
• Pages : 108
  
• Weight : 350gm.
  
• Size : 22 x 14.3 x 1 cm
  
• ISBN-10: 8188018376
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8188018376

Description:

It details what a sadhu saw happening in the presence of Sri Ramana Maharshi. Most of the events presented here are not recorded anywhere. The facts given here are of great accuracy and respect for truth.

Specification:

• Publisher : Vakils Feffer & Simons
  
• by : Jayandra Soni
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2001
  
• Pages : 224
  
• Weight : 950 gm.
  
• Size : 10.7 x 8.5 x 0.6 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 8187111518
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8187111511

Description:

Vasantagauravam is a collection of fifteen essays on the many facets of Jaina philosophy, and its practice, particularly in South India, between the second and the thirteenth century. Drawing from archaeological findings and ancient texts, it covers a range of topics – from Ajitasenacarya’s status in the sect, to the patronage extended by the Kasamba, Calukya and Hoysala dynasties, to the rise of women ascetics in the Jaina tradition. Furthermore, it looks west, and studies the occidental scholar’s perception of Jain thought. With its objective analyses and valuable insights, the book is certain to enthrall spiritualists and seekers.

Specification:

• Publisher : Vakils Feffer & Simons
  
• by : Purushottam Nijhaawan
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2004
  
• Pages : ix, 130
  
• Weight : 550
  
• Size : 11 x 0.4 x 8.5 inches
  
• ISBN-10: 8187111674
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8187111672

Description:

This book seeks to celebrate the timelessness of Nanak’s teachings and its relevance to modern-day issues. Hailed as one of the greatest spiritual leaders of mankind, Guru Nanak’s message of unconditional faith and unremitting generosity was path-breaking. It resulted in the formation of India’s youngest religion, Sikhism. The book unfolds the life of a thinker, reformer and spiritualist, while explicating the teachings of the Guru Granth. With beautiful illustrations, an uncomplicated narrative, and English translations of Sikh prayers, the book is a must-buy for every curious reader.

Specification:

• Publisher : Zen Publications
  
• by : Ramesh S. Balsekar
  
• Cover : Paperback
  
• Language : English
  
• Edition : 2008
  
• Pages : 88
  
• Weight : 120 gm.
  
• Size : 8 x 5.5 x 8 inches
  
• ISBN-13: 978-8188071371
  
• ASIN: 8188071374

Description:

The Sage of Arunachala preferred to teach in silence. But when he did use words, he used few and he used them with telling effect. What struck you most about what he said was the authority of knowing that backed each word uttered.

Though all of what Ramana said was rich with meaning, if one has to grasp the very core of his teaching, one needs to sieve and filter, doggedly staying focussed on the very fundamentals of what he taught. Even those who have read many books on Ramana Maharshi’s teachings will find this book different: focussed on the ultimate happiness as one’s very nature.

More importantly, this book bring across points about Ramana Maharshi’s sayings which have not been given adequate attention and significance. To give three instances:

The very thought of God is Divine Favour. It is by God’s grace that a thought of God arises in the mind.

There is absolutely no need to hurry about anything: everything must happen only at the precise time appointed by the Cosmic Law.

The ego of the sage is like the remnants of a burnt rope.

Pointers From Ramana Maharshi brings you the teachings of Advaita Master Adi Shankara as expounded by Ramana Maharshi, distilled to their very quintessential understanding, by an experienced writer like Ramesh Balsekar.

Specification:

• Publisher : Indica Books
• By : Dr. Ashoke Kumar Chatterjee
• Cover : Hardcover
• Edition : April 26, 2012
• Pages : 220
• Weight : 250 g.
• Size : 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.6 inches
• Language : English
• ISBN-10 : 8186117121
• ISBN-13 : 978-8186117125
• Product Code : BK14275

Description:

Yogacharya Dr. Ashoke Kumar Chatterjee was invited as the sole representative from India to participate in the Parliament of World Religions held at Val St. Hugon, France in 1997 convened by Dalai Lama and sponsored by UNO, UNESCO, UNCHR. At this Parliament of World Religions, he upheld the tenets of Sanatana yogadharma to the world with a clarion voice. His brilliant exegesis on the subject of love, peace and solidarity one world, one religion, one God, one man at the Parliament of World Religions received tumultous applause. All those present at this Parliament like representatives from all religions; scientists; philosophers; journalists; the audience; being spellbound by his profound wisdom and eloquence, conferred on him paens of praise. French newspapers commented on him to be a “wise worthy dignified sage”; “a seer”; “a visionary”, etc.
A civic reception graced by luminaries from all walks of life was accorded to him on 10 June 1998 in Calcutta.

About the Author

Yogacharya Vacaspati Dr. Ashoke Kumar Chatterjee, author of this book was born in 1933 in West Bengal. The sudden demise of his mother when he was away in service intensely agonized him. He grew averse to material pursuits and became spiritually inclined. He received initiation in Kriyayoga in April 1961. He reached the pinnacle of Kriyayoga within a short span. His three Gurus were stalwarts in this discipline. His first Guru was Sri Annada Charan Sastri (Bhattacharya) disciple of Panchanan Bhattacharya, an elevated disciple of Yogiraj Sri Shama Churn Lahiree. After Sastrirji’s demise, Dr. Chatterjee obtained initiation from Sundarlal Lala of Varanasi, disciple of Sri Harinarayan Paladhi. who was the disciple of Yogiraj and later from Sri Satyacharan Lahiri, grandson of Yogiraj. Today Yogacharya Vacaspati Chatterjee is acknowledged as a World Kriyayoga Master.
Being an ardent devotee of Sanatana Dharma's Polestar, Yogiraj Shama Churn Lahiree and to propagate His ideals and tenets before the masses so that they derive the right path, the right enlightenment, he has penned many books in Bengali, illustrating the science of Kriyayoga. Most of his books have been published in Indian languages like Hindi, Oriya, Telugu, Marathi, Gujarati. Tamil, Malayalam, Assamese editions are awaiting publication. Purana Purusha Yogiraj Sri Shama Churn Lahiree has been published in French also. His other books (English editions) are also awaiting publication. He has authored quite a number of articles delineating the science hence rationality of Kriyayoga.
He has founded “Yogiraj Shyamacharan Sanatan Mission” and the temple of Yogiraj at Kakdwip, West Bengal, India with the objective that mankind can derive the Kriyayoga revived by Yogiraj. He has organized philanthropic activities through this Mission. To further Yogiraj-consciousness he has travelled throughout India and in many places in the Orient and Occident. People irrespective of caste, creed, colour, nation, language, Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, Jains, untouchables, renouncers, are all coming under his aegis and are finding in him their haven and panacea for all evils. He has a large following throughout India and abroad like USA, England, France, Spain, Canada, Australia, South Korea, Bangladesh, etc.

Specification:

• Publisher : Indica Books
• H.H. Shankaracharya Swami Swarupananda Sarasvati
• Cover : Paperback
• Edition : January 1, 2009
• Pages : 368
• Weight : 650 gm.
• Size : 8.5 x 5.6 x 1 inches
• Language : English
• ISBN-10 : 9381120072
• ISBN-13 : 978-9381120071
• Product Code : BK14262

Description:

Swami Karpatri (1907-82), a revered contemporary sannyasin of exceptional personality, was renowned for his deep scriptural knowledge, which he used in his many writings and speeches to light up the Hindu orthodox point of view. The two significant articles presented here deal with the meaning of the Linga and the nature of the Great Goddess. Besides doctrinal and mythological clarifications, we find a sophisticated debate about the nature of Sakti between two traditional schools: Nyaya and Mimamsa, which could be compared with those held in the times of Adi Sankara.
This bilingual edition (Hindi–English) presents a new translation — the fruit of a collective work — besides the original text in Devanagari, in the first book by Svami Karpatri published in English. The notes explain the philosophical parts or reveal misleading interpolations and omissions commited by the first translator of these articles, Alain Daniélou.
Prefaced by His Holiness Jagadguru Shankaracarya of Dvarakapitha and Jyotispitha, Svami Svarupananda Sarasvati, who was a close companion of Svami Karpatri, this book clarifies many fundamental thoughts of Sanatana Dharma related to Siva and Sakti.

Specification:

• Publisher : Indica Books
• By : H.H. Shankaracharya Swami Swarupananda Sarasvati
• Cover : Hardcover
• Edition :  2009
• Pages : 368
• Weight : 650 g.
• Size : 8.5 x 5.6 x 1 inches
• Language : English
• ISBN-13 : 978-8186569887
• ISBN-10 : 818656988X
• Product Code : BK14261

Description:

Swami Karpatri (1907-82), a revered contemporary sannyasin of exceptional personality, was renowned for his deep scriptural knowledge, which he used in his many writings and speeches to light up the Hindu orthodox point of view. The two significant articles presented here deal with the meaning of the Linga and the nature of the Great Goddess. Besides doctrinal and mythological clarifications, we find a sophisticated debate about the nature of Sakti between two traditional schools: Nyaya and Mimamsa, which could be compared with those held in the times of Adi Sankara.
This bilingual edition (Hindi–English) presents a new translation — the fruit of a collective work — besides the original text in Devanagari, in the first book by Svami Karpatri published in English. The notes explain the philosophical parts or reveal misleading interpolations and omissions commited by the first translator of these articles, Alain Daniélou.
Prefaced by His Holiness Jagadguru Shankaracarya of Dvarakapitha and Jyotispitha, Svami Svarupananda Sarasvati, who was a close companion of Svami Karpatri, this book clarifies many fundamental thoughts of Sanatana Dharma related to Siva and Sakti.

Specification:

• Publisher : Indica Books
• By : Bithika Mukerji
• Cover : Paperback
• Edition : January 1, 2009
• Pages : 126
• Weight : 150 gm.
• Size : 6.9 x 4.3 x 0.3 inches
• Language : English
• ISBN-10 : 8186569847
• ISBN-13 : 978-8186569849
• Product Code : BK14246

Description:

The “commentary” on the Taittiriyopanishad is entitled Taittiriyaka-vidya-prakashah, that is “the exposition of the teaching of the Taittiriyopanishad” . It is to be seen that almost all Upanishads propound the unity of the Self with Brahman in two ways, first, by negation and second, by the mode of indicative descriptions. Both these methods are to be met with in the Taittiriyopanishad. Indeed this Upanishad is the fountainhead for both methods which converge to the same point in the famous declaration: brahmavidyapnotiparam (the knower of Brahman attains the supreme). What Vidyaranya has accomplished in this independent work is best described as a “meta-commentary”, being not a mere gloss on the existing commentary, but an independent exercise in interpretation of the Upanishads themselves guided at every step by the turns in the commentary of Sankaracharya. In sum it may be viewed as the medieval counterpart of modern academic interpretations of the Upanishads vis-a-vis the exegesis of Sankaracharya.
The prevalent view is that Vidyaranya and the Vedic commentator Sayana were brothers. It is further believed that “Vidyaranya” (lit. forest of learning) is the ascetic name of Madhavacharya, the very powerful minister in the Kingdom of Vijayanagar which came into existence under his aegis in ce1336. He renounced the world when yet at the height of his worldly powers and became an ascetic, who was the thirty-third occupant of the prestigious seat of Sankaracharya at Sringeri.