In the devotional tradition of Karnataka, the name of Mantralaya's Guru Sarvabhouma Sri Raghavendra Swamy is immortal. Having entered 'Sajeeva Brindavana' (entering the tomb alive) on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, Rayaru remains a guiding light for the devotees who place their faith in him.

Birth and Childhood Name

Sri Raghavendra Swamy was born in 1595 at Bhuvanagiri in Tamil Nadu. His name before entering the sainthood (Purvashrama) was Venkatanatha. He was born to Thimmanna Bhatta and Gopikamba. Even as a child, Venkatanatha possessed extraordinary intelligence and was a master of the Veena and the study of Shastras.

Sanyasa Deeksha and Miracles

Venkatanatha received Sanyasa Deeksha (initiation into monkhood) from Sri Sudhindra Tirtha and became 'Raghavendra Tirtha.' His life is a series of divine miracles:

* Reviving the Dry Wood: Once, while grinding sandalwood paste, Rayaru unknowingly chanted the Agni Sukta (hymn to Fire). When that paste was applied to others, they felt a burning sensation. Immediately, Rayaru chanted a mantra to invoke rain, which instantly cooled the sensation.

* Poverty and Devotion: His life before Sanyasa was marked by extreme poverty. However, his unwavering devotion to the Lord elevated him to the revered position of Jagadguru.

The Sajeeva Brindavana of Mantralaya

In 1671 AD, on the second day of the Krishna Paksha in the month of Shravana, Rayaru entered the Sajeeva Brindavana at Mantralaya. The message he gave before entering remains relevant to this day:

''Walk the path of Truth and Dharma. I will reside in this Brindavana in a living state for 700 years and will always respond to the calls of my devotees."

Special Highlights of Rayaru’s Glory

1. Beyond Caste and Creed: Rayaru’s devotees are not limited to Hindus; they include Muslims and Christians as well. History records the incident where British officer Thomas Munro received a vision of Rayaru from the Brindavana.

2. Guru Raghavendra Stotra: Composed by Appannacharya, the "Sri Raghavendra Stotra" acts as a protective shield for devotees in times of need.

3. Annadana and Jnanadana: Thousands of devotees are served free meals every day at Mantralaya. The eight-syllable mantra, 'Om Sri Raghavendraya Namaha,' has become a source of strength for millions.

As the shloka "Poojyaya Raghavendraya Satya Dharma Ratayacha" suggests, Rayaru is the ultimate symbol of Truth and Dharma. It is the unshakable belief of his followers that those in distress need only remember him with true devotion for him to appear in some form and offer his protection.