"RAMANUJA MYTH AND REALITY"

RAMANUJA PURANAM

A new Book by Dr R.Nagaswamy likely to revolutionalize the study of the History of Ramanuja.

A Critical study of the life and works of Ramanuja
By
Dr.R.Nagaswamy

This is a critical study based on verifiable inscriptions and documents, of the myths and legends circulated on the life Ramanuja, that shows these myths and legends are not supported by any evidence. Many Indian and International scholars have hesitatingly questioned these legends earlier, but this study strikes a new path by analyzing the inscriptions found mainly in Srirangam temple and shows that Ramanuja was never the "Sri karyam" of the temple, , was never a party to any administrative reforms nor was interested in any Social reform. Most of the legends like Ramauja quarrelling with his wife and taking Sahyasa, Ramanuja marching to Delhi with 1200 sanyasis and challenging the Sultan of Delhi to return th Ramapriya image or fight with him, then making a matrimonial alliance (sambandam) with the Sultan and coming with the daughter of the sultan to Mysore are all concocted stories. That he took over Srirangam Temple administration by dubious means and reformed the Kottus are not supported by inscriptions. His persecution in the hands the Chola emperor Kulottunga I or II are all fabricated stories. He did not mention even a word about Divyaprabandham. He was a pure Vedantin and so by jettisoning these concocted stories propagated by the Pauranikas - myth makers, the author points to the true greatness of Ramanuja as an outstanding intellectual. The Author also advocates a further thorough study of original manuscripts and inscriptions, especially at Srirangam, Kanchi and Thiruppati to bring out the true history of Ramanuja. With extensive quotations from Indian and Foreign scholars, the book is likely to be an indispensable work for Researchers, Academicians and those interested in the life of the Great Acharya.

The book is in English and has about 150 pages, Price Rupees 300.00

Published by
Tamil Arts Academy
11,22nd Cross Street,
Besantnagar, Chennai 600 090
Ph 24916005, nagaswamy@msn.com