Exploring the Life and Times of Sri Ramanujacharya: A Selection of Books

The life and teachings of Sri Ramanujacharya, a significant figure in Hindu philosophy and mathematics, have been the subject of numerous books. These works provide valuable insights into his life story, philosophical ideas, and mathematical contributions. Here is a curated list of books that delve into the rich life and times of Sri Ramanujacharya.

Biographies and Accounts

The Man Who Knew Infinity: A Life of the Genius Ramanujan by Robert Kanigel (1991)

The Man Who Knew Infinity is a comprehensive biography of the Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, written by renowned biographer Robert Kanigel. This book delves into Ramanujan's upbringing in India, his mathematical achievements, and his collaborations with the mathematician G.H. Hardy. It provides a detailed and engaging account of this mathematical genius, highlighting both his personal life and monumental contributions to the field of mathematics.

Books in Other Languages

In addition to English, there are several books on Sri Ramanujacharya available in other languages, including Hindi. Here are a couple of notable works:

These books are translated into Hindi by PBA Swami Mutt at Kanchipuram. If you are interested in reading them in Sanskrit, original versions are also available.

Books in English

For those seeking a deeper understanding of Ramanujacharya's life, religion, and philosophy, the following books are highly recommended:

Sri Ramanuja: His Life, Religion and Philosophy by Swami Tapasyananda (Sri Ramakrishna Math)

This book by Swami Tapasyananda provides a detailed account of the life and spiritual teachings of Sri Ramanujacharya. It covers his spiritual journey, his contributions to Hindu philosophy, and his impact on religious practices. This is an excellent resource for those looking to understand the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of Ramanujacharya's life.

Lane of Ramanujacharya by Alkondavilli Govindacharya

This biography focuses on the life and contributions of Ramanujacharya, offering a wealth of information on his philosophy and religious teachings. It is particularly valuable for its detailed portrait of his scholarly and spiritual life.

Sri Ramanuja’s Philosophy and Religion: The Impact of Sri Ramanujacharya on Temple Worship by Sarojini Jagannathan

This book explores the spiritual and philosophical impact of Sri Ramanujacharya on Hindu temple worship. It examines how his teachings transformed religious practices and philosophical thought. This work is ideal for those interested in the broader impact of Ramanujacharya's teachings on Hinduism.

Ramanuja’s Vedartha Samgraha by J.A.B. Van Buitenen

This book delves into Ramanujacharya's Vedartha Samgraha, a famous compilation of philosophical interpretations. It provides a critical analysis of Ramanujacharya's philosophical contributions and is highly recommended for those studying Hindu philosophy.

The Philosophy of Sri Ramanuja by Srisaila Chakravarthi Acharya

This work offers a comprehensive analysis of Ramanujacharya's philosophical thoughts. It is a valuable resource for understanding Ramanujacharya's unique contributions to Hindu philosophy.

Ramanuja: A Reality Not a Myth by Shri Krishnamachari

This book debunks various myths surrounding Ramanujacharya and provides a factual and objective account of his life and teachings. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the true story of this spiritual and intellectual giant.

Sri Ramanuja’s Life and Teachings by Aiyengar

This book is a succinct yet comprehensive account of Sri Ramanujacharya's life and teachings. It covers key aspects of his spiritual and philosophical thought, making it an accessible and informative read.

Conclusion

The books discussed here offer a rich and diverse exploration of Sri Ramanujacharya's life, philosophy, and contributions. Whether you are deeply interested in his mathematical genius or his spiritual teachings, these books provide valuable insights and perspectives. Delve into these works to better understand the profound impact of Sri Ramanujacharya on Indian culture and philosophy.