Namdev, also known as Nam Dayv, Namdeo, and Namadeva, was a Marathi Hindu poet and saint from Narsi, Hingoli, Maharashtra, India, who practiced Hinduism in the Varkari school. He lived as a devotee of Pandharpur’s Lord Vitthal (Krishna).
About
- Namdev, born in the village of Naras-Vamani in what is now Maharashtra’s Satara district, came from humble beginnings. His father, Damashetti, was a lower-caste tailor, and his mother, Gonabi (Gunabai), supported the family.
- Before he became a revered saint, Namdev, originally named Namdeo Relekar, lived an ordinary life as a tailor. Surprisingly, he is said to have briefly turned to banditry before his spiritual transformation.
- Namdev’s heart was deeply touched by the teachings of Vaishnavism, and he gained prominence in India for his devotional hymns, which he set to music (bhajan-kirtans). His poetic expressions in Marathi conveyed profound love and devotion to God.
- In terms of philosophy, Namdev’s beliefs were a harmonious blend of nirguna and saguna Brahman aspects, reflecting monistic ideas. His influence extended far and wide, reaching both the Varkari tradition in south Maharashtra and communities in North India, including Dadu Panthis, Kabir Panthis, and Sikhs.
- Namdev’s legacy is particularly vibrant in the Varkari tradition, where devotees embark on biannual pilgrimages to Pandharpur. His impact is also felt in other traditions, such as Dadupanth, alongside revered figures like Dadu, Kabir, Haridas, and Ravidas.
- Despite his saintly stature, Namdev remained approachable and inclusive. During community-led bhajan singing sessions, people from all walks of life and castes were drawn together, breaking down social barriers.His interactions were diverse and included figures like Kanhopatra (a dancing girl), Sena (a barber), Savata (a gardener), Chokhamela (an untouchable), Janabai (a maid), Gora (a potter), Narahari (a jeweler), and Jnanesvar (also known as Dnyandev, a Brahmin).
- Namdev’s journey took him far and wide, including encounters with Sufi saints in Delhi. His writings, along with those of saints like Jnanesvar and Tukaram, form the foundation of the Varkari sect within Hinduism.
- In 1350 C.E, at the age of twenty-six, Namdev attained Samadhi at Pandharpur, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to resonate in the hearts of those who follow his teachings. In northern India, he is regarded as a nirguna bhakta, while in Marathi culture, he is celebrated as a saguna bhakta.
Literary Works
- Namdev’s literary works were influenced by Vaishnava philosophy and his faith in Vithoba.
- The doctrines of the Varkari sect of Hinduism are based on Namdev’s teachings.
- Namdev expressed their ideals through the Marathi language.
- Namdev’s method was to compose simply phrased praise for Vithoba and to employ a musical device known as sankirtana, both of which were accessible to the general public.
- Tirthavli, a Marathi-language autobiographical work.
- Namdev wrote bhajans, or songs that are meant to be sung to music.
- A Bhajan literally translates as “something enjoyed or shared.”
- Namdev’s songs were written to be both musical and to convey a spiritual message.
- Namdev’s musical genre was a type of Prabandha, which is a very broad and rich genre that encompasses dhrupad, thumri, tappa, geet, bhajan, and other species.
- His Abhangas are thought to have been incorporated in the Granth Sahib.
- A collection of 61 Namdev songs may be found in Sikhism’s Adi Granth.
Conclusion
Namdev paved the way for the radical bhakti school, championing the idea of nurturing a direct and affectionate connection with Brahman (the Supreme Personality of Godhead) through unwavering and heartfelt devotion. While he didn’t pen extensive treatises, Namdev left behind a treasure trove of Abhang – concise devotional poems. Though many of these poems are no longer in existence, around four thousand Abhang endure. Notably, Namdev’s Abhang can be discovered in the Sikh Adi Granth.
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