Vallabhacharya, also known as Vallabha or Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhu, was a Hindu philosopher, scholar, and theologian who lived in the 16th century. He was the founder of Pushti Marg Vaishnavism, a devotional tradition within Hinduism that focuses on the worship of Lord Krishna as the supreme deity.

Vallabhacharya was born in 1479 in the town of Champaran, in present-day Uttar Pradesh, India. His parents, Lakshmana Bhatta and Illamma, were devout followers of Vishnu, and they raised him in a pious and spiritual environment. From a young age, Vallabhacharya showed a keen interest in religious scriptures and spent most of his time studying and meditating.

After completing his education, Vallabhacharya traveled extensively across India, visiting various holy sites and engaging in philosophical debates with scholars. He was well-versed in various branches of Hindu philosophy, including Vedanta, Nyaya, and Mimamsa. However, it was his encounter with the famous saint and philosopher, Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, that had a profound impact on his life.

Under the guidance of Shri Chaitanya, Vallabhacharya underwent a spiritual transformation and became a devoted follower of Lord Krishna. He then embarked on a mission to spread the teachings of Bhakti (devotion) and establish a new Vaishnava sect that would bring people closer to God through love and devotion.

In 1493, Vallabhacharya founded the Pushti Marg (Path of Grace) Vaishnavism, which emphasized the importance of surrendering to the will of God and living a life of devotion and service. He also introduced the concept of "Shuddhadvaita," which means pure non-dualism, and explained that the individual soul and the supreme soul are not separate entities but are one and the same.

Vallabhacharya's teachings were based on the Bhagavad Gita, Bhagavata Purana, and other Hindu scriptures, and he wrote several commentaries and treatises on these texts. He also composed numerous devotional songs and hymns, which are still sung and cherished by his followers.

Throughout his life, Vallabhacharya traveled extensively, establishing temples and centers of learning in various parts of India. He also initiated many disciples into the Pushti Marg tradition and trained them to spread the message of love and devotion.

Vallabhacharya's legacy continues to thrive today, and his followers, known as Pushtimargis, continue to practice his teachings and spread the message of love and devotion to Lord Krishna. He is revered as a great saint, philosopher, and reformer who brought people closer to God through his teachings and devotion.