Page 6 - Ramanuja and Equality Book.pmd

BHAGAVAD RAMANUJACHARYA

Ramanuja, as present in Sriperumbudur

On rare occasions, heavenly stars miraculously descend on earth.
Sri Ramanuja was one such miracle – a human manifestation who
lit the path of equality and bhakti across the universe. Born in
Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, in 1017 A.D, He dedicated His entire
life for social reform, leaving no stone unturned in dispelling
darkness from the hearts of all. He was a saint who propagated
universal brotherhood. He embraced so-called ‘untouchables’,
treating them on par with the elite. Realizing His compassion
towards the oppressed, His delighted guru honoured him with the
title ‘Em-perum-anar’, meaning ‘you are superior to all of us’. Sri
Ramanuja named subjugated societal classes as Thirukkulathar,
‘Born Divine’.

We can rightly acclaim Ramanujacharya as a legendary personality
who revolted against generations-old inhuman practices inflicted
on the less privileged. He imparted the wisdom of secretly
guarded mantras to the oppressed and allowed them to enter
temples at a time when this was strictly forbidden! He was a
visionary and free thinker who revived society on the grounds
of universal liberation via Bhakti, compassion, humility, equality,
and mutual respect – at a time where these qualities were not
the norm.

5