Vishishtadvaita, also known as qualified non-dualism, is a school of thought within Hinduism that emphasizes the concept of unity with distinctions. It is based on the teachings of the 8th century philosopher and theologian, Ramanuja. This philosophy is often seen as a middle ground between the two major schools of Advaita and Dvaita.

One of the main differences between Vishishtadvaita and other forms of Advaita is the concept of Brahman, the ultimate reality. While Advaita holds that Brahman is formless and attributeless, Vishishtadvaita sees Brahman as having qualities and attributes. This is because, according to Ramanuja, Brahman is not only the cause of the universe but also the material and efficient cause. Therefore, Brahman is seen as both transcendent and immanent in this philosophy.

Another key difference lies in the concept of the individual self, or jivatma. In Advaita, the jivatma is seen as identical to Brahman, and the ultimate goal is to realize this identity and achieve liberation. However, in Vishishtadvaita, the jivatma is seen as a distinct entity from Brahman, but still connected to it. The ultimate goal in this philosophy is not to merge with Brahman, but to attain a state of blissful existence in the presence of Brahman.

The concept of maya, or illusion, is also viewed differently in Vishishtadvaita. While Advaita sees maya as the cause of the perceived duality in the world, Vishishtadvaita sees it as a power of Brahman. This means that the world and all its distinctions are not mere illusions, but a manifestation of Brahman's power and will.

Additionally, Vishishtadvaita places a strong emphasis on devotion and surrender to Brahman. This is seen as a means to attain liberation, rather than solely relying on knowledge and self-inquiry, as in Advaita. This devotion is expressed through rituals, prayers, and worship of Brahman in the form of deities.

In conclusion, Vishishtadvaita differs from other forms of Advaita in its understanding of Brahman, the individual self, the concept of maya, and the role of devotion in attaining liberation. It is a philosophy that seeks to reconcile the idea of unity with the acceptance of distinctions, ultimately leading to a state of blissful existence in the presence of Brahman.