Shri Uddanda Ramachandra Teertharu

Dhyana Shloka

gOpaalasvaami saMjaataM durmatadhvaaMtabhaaskaraM |
uddhaMDaraamachaMdraaKya guruM vaMdE niraMtaram ||

Uddanda Ramachandra Theertha, also known as Sri Ramachandra Theertha, continued teaching the Dvaita philosophy, emphasizing the dualistic perspective. He also provided assistance to the chieftain (Palegara) of Penukonda in fulfilling his political duties.

During this period, Sri Ramachandra Theertha, along with Sri Lakshmipathi Theertha of Vysaraja Mutt and Sri Vidisha Theertha of Uttaradi Mutt, engaged in penance on Bhramhagiri hill near Penukonda. Sri Vysaraja had established 350 idols of Lord Hanuman on the Bhramhagiri hill.

As monkeys, symbolizing Lord Hanuman, were prevalent throughout the hill, the pontiffs decided not to disturb them while ascending the hill on foot. Instead, they utilized their divine powers to reach the hill by flying and sitting on plantain leaves. Upon reaching the summit of Bhramhagiri hills, they would bathe in the Bramhasarovara and perform rituals.

Sri Ramachandra Theertha, in particular, was known for keeping a vigilant eye on the sacred box containing the deities, earning him the name Uddanda Rama Theertha. In 1645, he appointed Sri Raghunatha Theertha as his successor. Eventually, Sri Ramachandra Theertha attained immortalization near Penukonda.