Srivaishnava - Srivaishnava Brahmin (Iyengar) Subsects

Srivaishnava Brahmin (Iyengar) Subsects

Among the Iyengar Brahmins following Sri Vaishnavism, there are two sects, namely Vadakalai and Tenkalai. It is widely believed that the two sects are distinctly different in origin. But some believe the two subsects to have originated in the 14th century AD following a split in the Iyengar community.

• The Vadakalai Iyengar community (Uttara Kalārya, Sanskrit: उत्तर कलार्य) ardently follows the Sanskrit Vedas, and the set of rules prescribed by the Manusmriti and Dharma Shastras. The sect is based on the Sankritic tradition, and follows – Ramanuja and Vedanta Desika. The Vadakalai Iyengars are believed to be an Indo-Aryan people who once migrated from North India. In a genetic study, all individuals examined among Vadakalai Iyengars showed a high similarity of gene frequency with the people of Faislabad in the Punjab province. The Vadakalai community believes in the caste system, and championed the cause of purity of the vedic tenets. Traditionally, the Vadakalais believe in practising Karma yoga, Jnana yoga and Bhakti yoga, along with Prapatti, as means to attain salvation. Also, they consider Prapatti as an act of winning grace. The various Vadaklai monasteries are – Ahobila Mutt, Parakala Mutt, Srirangam Srimad Andavan Ashramam and Poundarikapuram Andavan Ashramam.

• The Thenkalai Iyengar community (Tamil: தென்னாசாரிய சம்பிரதாயம்) follows the Tamil Prabandhams, and asserts primacy to rituals in Tamil language. They are followers of Ramanuja, Pillailokacharya and Manavala Mamuni. According to genetic studies, the Thenkalai gene frequencies are distinctly different from that of the Vadakalais. The Thenkalais reject the caste system. The Thenkalai society has also accepted a significant proportion of the non-Brahmin population into its fold. The Thenkalai society has also accepted a significant proportion of the non-Brahmin population into its fold. But inter-marriages between the Brahmin and the non-Brahmin population is seldom seen. The sect seems to be liberal in its outlook, and so shapes the doctrine of the system as to make them applicable to non-Brahmin castes. Traditionally, Thenkalai accept Prapatti as the only means to attain salvation. They consider Prapatti as an unconditional surrender. The various Thenkalai monasteries are – Vanamamalai mutt and Sriperumdur mutt in Kanchipuram district and Tirukkoilur mutt in Viluppuram district.