Rise and fall of Vijayanagar - The Hindu Kingdom - 4

Vidyaranya - A Saint and a true Nationalist :

One of the historan says "Vidyaranya was the first to identify Islam as the idea of Imperialism". Thus a man with rare insight and vision was responsible for establishment of such a great kingdom. He, being a true nationalist made it clear to the men around him, on whom he entrusted to implement the idea of nationalism, that there was no need for creating an empire to assimilate economic riches nor there was any need to build an army to fullfil the capitalistic thirst of Royal families. He emphaised on four things before the Kingdom was established. 1. Restore Hindu Dharma. 2. Build strong forts to protect people. 3. Organize large army to fight Islamic onslaught. 4. Wipe out Islam from bharath.

Vidyaranya was born and brought up in an orthodox Brahmin family. His father Mayana, mother Srimathi, brothers Sayana and Bhoganatha, sister Singale all led a happy and content life. Children were given moral education along with the regular text book studies. Children were also given liberty to choose the field of education of their interest. Not a well to do family, but they were earning sufficiently to lead a life of respect and independence. Vidyaranya was well-verse in sanskrit and could recite Vedas. He knew to play veena, flute and other Musical instruments. He also excelled in the field of fine arts. Gifted with a rare insightful vision, Vidyaranya had an eye on what was happening around the country. He could diagnose the situation and could evolve suitable solutions.

A scholar has to be a nationalist. His intellect should not be overshadowed by temporary emotional outburst, but it should translate into wise social and political moves. Vidyaranya was such a nationalist personified. He worked at he grass-root levels to organize and create awareness among Village sarpanch. He used Temple reserves for social and national causes such as irrigation, education and defense etc. This is regarded as the revolutionary work at that time, that too for a man hailing from a orthodox family.

He was a minister to Hakka and Bukka. It is said that he lived for 91 years. Before brething his last he took Sanyasa at Shringeri. He also contributed to the field of literature and nowhere in his works one could find the hatred for other faiths. Before bidding adieu to his Motherland he was cocksure of his vision being put to action and the mission being accomplished. Hakka and Bukka blossomed as great kings under his guidance and blessings and laid a strong foundation for the most celebrated Kingdoms of Indian History.