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The world’s second tallest statue in sitting pose of Ramanuja was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India at Hyderabad recently. Which one of the following statements correctly represents the teachings of Ramanuja?
- A.The best means of salvation was devotion.
- B.Vedas are eternal, self-existent and wholly authoritative.
- C.Logical arguments were essential means for the highest bliss.
- D.Salvation was to be obtained through meditation.
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: A. The best means of salvation was devotion.
Ramanuja, a prominent Vaishnavite philosopher, advocated Vishishtadvaita Vedanta. Central to his philosophy was the concept of Bhakti yoga, emphasizing intense devotion (bhakti) to Vishnu as the primary path to attain liberation or salvation. While he respected the authority of the Vedas, his teachings strongly prioritized devotional surrender over mere intellectual understanding or ascetic practices.
Source: UPSC gs1 2022