Importance in Srivaishnava Tradition
A poet, philosopher, logician, and a scrupulous Anushtatha he took upon himself the task of upholding the concepts preached by Bhagavad Ramanuja. It is because of him that 'Ramanuja Darsanam' came to be recognized by the world. Swami Vedanta Desika was the brightest star in the firmament of Visishtadvaita next only to Bhagavad Ramanuja.
Vadakalai sect of Sri Vaishnavites consider that "No writer among the followers of Ramanuja fought for the rightful place for Divya Prabandhams as did Swami Desika" where as Thennacharya sect of Sri Vaishnavites consider Sri Manvala Mamunigal in equal reverence. His prolific compositions in pure Tamil, pure Sanskrit, Praakrit and Manipravala bear ample testimony to the fact of his genius. Even while young, he used to attend the Kalakshepam discourses of Nadaadur Ammal along with his maternal uncle, Appullaar (Kidambhi AppuLLaar- descendent of Kidambi Aacchaan- Ach-Arya Ramanuja's direct disciple) who was also his Acharya. Before the age of 20, he excelled in all that a person ought to learn. His exposure to Vedas, Divya Prabandhas and Sastras at a very early age provided him with an encyclopedic knowledge and this treasure house of knowledge was matched only by his exemplary modesty and humility- which rarely go together among scholars.
The Archa murthi of Hayagriva which was originally worshipped by Goddess Saraswati and handed over by her to Bhagavad Ramanuja was being subsequently worshipped by Pillaan and Pundarikaaksha. This Pundarikaaksha was the son-in-law of Appullaar, and was working as the Rajaguru of the Rayar Samasthaanam in the north. As ordered by the Lord, Pundarikaaksha handed over the murthi to Swami Desika with royal honors.
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