Sri Nanjiyar

Nanjiyar, initially known as Madhavadasa, belonged to an Advaita family of philosophers residing in Melkote in Karnataka state. He was a renowned scholar whose popularity led Sri Bhattar to Melkote and win his allegiance after a week long debate. Madhavadasa continued to preach and practice Visistadvaita in Melkote.

It is said that when Madhavadasa was away from home, his two wives turned away some Sri Vaishnavas who had approached them seeking food. Madhavadasa was so upset about the incident that he renounced grhasthaasrama and became a sannyaasin. He decided to move to Srirangam and practice Visistadvaita at bhattar's feet. When Bhattar saw Madhavadasa clad in ascetic's garb, he called him NanjIyar (our jIyar).

Sri Nanjiyar, who is said to have lived 105 years (1182 - 1287 AD), wrote 5 commentaries

Onpatinayirappadi A Commentary on Tiruvaymozhi (nine thousand granthas).

Commentary on Tiruppavai by Andal.

Commentary on Andadi by Poykaiazhvar, Putamazhvar and Peyazhvar.

Commentary on Kanninum ciruththampu by Madhurakavi azhvar.

Commentary on Tiruppallandu by Periyaazhvar.