Sri Madhwacharya was a prominent Indian philosopher and theologian, born in the 13th century in Udupi, Karnataka. He is best known as the founder of the Dvaita (dualism) school of Vedanta, which emphasizes the distinction between the individual soul and the supreme being, Vishnu. His teachings advocate devotion and surrender to God as the path to liberation. Madhwacharya authored several texts, including commentaries on the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Brahma Sutras. He established the Ashta Matas (eight monasteries) in Udupi, which continue to be centers of learning and worship. His philosophy has significantly influenced the Vaishnavism tradition in India.