Ramanujacharyas

Ramanujacharyas is a term used for the lineage of spiritual teachers in the Sri Vaishnava tradition who trace their authority to Ramanuja, the 11th–12th century theologian and philosopher who articulated Vishishtadvaita. The word charya, here meaning tradition or teacher, signifies a lineage of instruction transmitted from one generation to the next. Ramanujacharyas have historically served as the chief teachers, pontiffs, and ritual heads of Srivaishnava monasteries and temples, guiding doctrinal interpretation, liturgy, and devotional practice.

Historically, after Ramanuja's death, his disciples established enduring lineages of acharyas who carried forward his theology and devotional methods. These lineages played a central role in spreading Vishishtadvaita across Tamil Nadu and other parts of South India, as well as in diaspora communities. They have presided over major temple complexes and monastic centers, and their scholars produced commentaries, bhakti hymns, and liturgical manuals that shaped Sri Vaishnava practice.

In contemporary times, Ramanujacharyas continue to function as religious authorities within the Sri Vaishnava community. They oversee temple administration, lead religious rites and festivals, and guide students and lay devotees in the study of texts such as the Sri Bhashya, the Divya Prabandham, and other Vaishnava literature. The term is thus used to denote both a historical lineage and a living tradition within Vaishnavism.