Legacy of Sri Yatirājadāsar

Legacy of Sri Yatirājadāsar

A Timeless Tradition of Devotion, Service & Dharma

The Sri Yatirājadāsar family carries forward a sacred legacy bestowed by Jagadguru Sri Rāmānujāchārya in the 11th century CE. The title “Sri Yatirājadāsar” was conferred upon an esteemed Sthānāchārya of Melukote (Tirunārāyaṇapuram), entrusting the family with the worship and administration of the Sri Tirunārāyaṇa Swami Temple.

When Sri Rāmānujāchārya arrived in Hoysala Naḍu, he revived the temple, reinstalled the deity Sri Tirunārāyaṇa, and established the spiritual and administrative framework of Melukote. Alongside 52 devoted disciples (Imbattiruvar), four key Sthānāchāryas were appointed to ensure the temple’s prosperity and divine service. Among them, Sri Yatirājadāsar was chosen for his unwavering devotion and deep knowledge of Vedantic traditions.

A Lineage Rooted in Spiritual Wisdom

Belonging to the Sri Bhārgava Gotra, Jaimini Talavakara Sūtra, and Sāma Śākhā Brahmin traditions, the Sri Yatirājadāsar family is believed to be descendants of Ācārya Cānakya. For generations, they have preserved and practiced the sacred teachings of Sri Viśiṣṭādvaita Vedānta, dedicating their lives to Vedic adhyayana (study), adhyāpana (teaching), temple service, and cultural preservation.

Guardians of the Melukote Tradition

Through the centuries, the family has remained committed to Avicchinna Kainkaryam (uninterrupted service) at the Sri Tirunārāyaṇa Swami Temple, Sri Rāmānujāchārya Sannidhi, Sri Dakṣiṇa Badarikāśrama, and Gavigal Ānjaneya Swami Temple. Despite changes in political and administrative landscapes, the family continues to uphold its hereditary responsibilities and spiritual duties.

Eminent Personalities & Contributions

From the revered Sri Narasimhāchārya, Śrinivāsa Iyengar, and Smt. Tirumalamma to Sthaneekam Nāgarāja (Śeṣa) Iyengar, the family has produced great scholars, yogis, and social reformers. Sthaneekam Nagaraja Iyengar Swamy was a visionary, humanitarian, and Parama Yogi, who introduced several community welfare programs. Today, Matoshri Smt. Ranganayaki, along with her sons and grandchildren, carries forward this divine responsibility.

The current Sthānāchārya heirs leading the legacy are:

  • 1. Sthaneekam Sri Santhana Raman

  • 2. Sthaneekam Prof. Sri Shalvapille Iyengar

  • 3. Sthaneekam Srinivasa Narasimhan (Melukote Guruji) – Also called as Melukote Guruji – who is looking after the sevas of Lord Tirunārāyaṇa and Sri Rāmānujāchārya"