Sri Padmanabha Tirtharu

Originally a distinguished Advaita scholar named Shobana Bhatta from the Kakatiya kingdom, he experienced a profound transformation after being defeated in debate by Acharya Madhwa. Inspired by this encounter, he journeyed to Udupi where he became Sriman Madhwacharyaru's first Ashrama Shishya and was initiated as Sri Padmanabha Tirtharu . As a pioneer of the lineage, he became the very first to author insightful commentaries on Madhwa's profound works and played a crucial role in establishing institutions to propagate Tatvavaada. His unparalleled devotion and monumental literary contributions were deeply revered by later saints like Sri JayaTeertha ru, who beautifully compared him to the milky ocean. His holy Brindavana is located at Navabrindhavana.