Sri Raghavendra Swamy — lovingly called Rayaru by millions of devotees — is one of the most revered saints of the Madhwa (Dvaita) tradition. His Brindavana at Mantralaya, on the banks of the Tungabhadra river, draws pilgrims from across India and the world who seek his blessings and grace.
Birth and Early Life
He was born in 1595 in the village of Bhuvanagiri, near Chidambaram in present-day Tamil Nadu, as Venkatanatha (Venkanna Bhatta), the second son of Sri Thimanna Bhatta and Smt. Gopikamba. Even as a boy he was a brilliant scholar of the Vedas, Sanskrit and music, and a devout worshipper of Lord Sri Hari.
Sanyasa and the Name Raghavendra
In 1621, Venkatanatha accepted sanyasa (renunciation) and was initiated into monastic life as Raghavendra Tirtha, becoming the pontiff of the Madhwa mutt. He was a great exponent of the Dvaita philosophy of Sri Madhvacharya, authored numerous scholarly works, and travelled widely spreading devotion to Lord Vishnu.
Settling at Mantralaya
Sri Raghavendra Swamy chose the barren land around Manchale (present-day Mantralaya), then part of the Nawab of Adoni’s territory. Though offered more fertile land, he insisted on this sacred spot on the banks of the Tungabhadra — a place associated with Prahlada, the great devotee of Lord Narasimha.
Jeeva Samadhi and the Brindavana
In 1671, on the Dwitiya day of Sravana Krishna Paksha, Sri Raghavendra Swamy entered Jeeva Samadhi — he entered the Brindavana alive, in deep meditation. Devotees believe he continues to bless those who come to him with faith, and that he will remain present in his Brindavana for centuries. The Aradhana festival every year commemorates this sacred event.
The Legacy of Rayaru
Countless stories of Rayaru’s miracles — healing the sick, restoring sight, protecting the devoted — are cherished by his followers. Beyond the miracles, his greatest gift is his teaching: unwavering devotion (bhakti) to the Lord, righteous living, and surrender to Sri Hari. To this day, “Rayaru” is a household name of comfort in millions of homes.
Related Guides
Please note: srsmatha.org.in is an independent devotional guide created for the benefit of Sri Raghavendra Swamy pilgrims. We are not the official Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mutt. For official seva bookings, room reservations and donations, always use the official website srsmatha.org. Timings and charges can change — please verify before your visit.