The recent unveiling of Swami Ramanujacharya’s Statue of Peace in Srinagar by Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah has garnered a lot of attention. This article seeks to elucidate the background and significance of this event, along with exploring the life and contribution of Ramanujacharya.
Who was Ramanujacharya?
Born in 1017 in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, Ramanujacharya stood out as a revered Vedic philosopher and social reformer. His teachings, grounded in equality and social justice, had a profound impact throughout India, transcending socio-economic boundaries.
Ramanujacharya brought the valuable treasure of Vedic literature to the doorstep of the common man, advocating the philosophy of Visistadvaitha, or qualified monism. This effectively dispelled the Mayavada concept which states that the world is illusory.
Regarded as a preceptor of the Bhakti movement, Ramanujacharya laid the foundation for other Bhakti schools of thought. His life and philosophy inspired a range of mystic poets, including Kabir, Meerabai, Annamacharya, Bhakta Ramdas, Thyagaraja, and many others.
Notably, Ramanujacharya also initiated the concept of treating nature and its resources, such as water, air, soil, trees etc., as sacred entities that need protection from pollution.
Why is it Called Statue of Peace?
The installation of this statue has been termed ‘Statue of Peace’ to symbolize Ramanujacharya’s teachings of peace, unity and social justice. The unveiling of this statue is expected to bring blessings and the teachings of peace by Ramanujacharya to Kashmiris of all religions and contribute towards enhancing peace and progress in the region.
The intent behind this installation is to stimulate development and social unity among the people of Kashmir, without any discrimination or bias.
What is Saint Ramanuj’s Connection with Kashmir?
Ramanujacharya’s connection with Kashmir dates back to the 11th century when he visited the region in search of the Bodhayana Vritti manuscript. This manuscript held the reputation of being the most authoritative explanation of the Brahma Sutras.
During his visit, he was accompanied by his disciple Kuresha. They faced a prohibition on carrying the manuscript out of Kashmir. However, Kuresha committed the entire text to memory. After returning to Srirangam, Ramanujacharya dictated the Sri Bhashyam, the commentary on the Brahma Sutra and his most notable work, to Kuresha who wrote it down.
Ramanujacharya made a second trip to Kashmir after two years to dedicate Sri Bhasyam to the region. This gesture further cemented his deep-rooted connection with Kashmir.
