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 Early Life
Gyaneshwar was born in the year 1271 in a small village near the Godavari River. His father, Vithalpant, found married life annoying and deserted his wife to seek refuge in the holy city of Benaras. However, the Guru who had initiated him came to know about his wife and sent him back to his village. Later, four children were born to them. The first was Nvrittinath, then Gyaneshwar (in 1271), another boy Sopana and a daughter Muktabai. All the siblings became great spiritual leaders in their might.
Initiation into Spirituality
Sant Gnaneshwar was initiated by his elder brother, Nvrittinath. Soon after his initiation, he realized that the Bhagvad Gita is the best text in satisfying the spiritual needs of people. At the same time, he appreciated the fact that it is difficult for the common people to comprehend the great text, since it was written in Sanskrit. It was then that he took the decision to translate the great text into a common language. His interpretation of the Gita, which is called the 'Gnaneshwari' and is read today by millions, was a miracle. Young Gnaneshwar took mahasamadhi, while he was still a young lad. Miraculous stories are connected with the above episode and site. The book was completed at Nevasa, a town on the banks of the Prainara River in the district of Ahmednagar. The actual writer was Sachidananda Pava. Gyandev's commentary on the Gita is considered as one of the best. In a big assembly of Sanskrit Pundits in Benaras Gyandev was elected as the President.
Gyaneshwar is to Maharashtrians what the Ramayana of Tulsidas is to the Hindi-speaking people. Though Gyandev lived for only a few years, he did wonderful work. He was a Yogi of deep spiritual experiences and a sage of Supreme Order. He boldly criticized his predecessors. He was a great social and religious reformer and laid the foundation of the great Bhakti movement in Maharashtra. Gyaneshwar is to Maharashtrians what the Ramayana of Tulsidas is to the Hindi-speaking people. Though Gyandev lived for only a few years, he did wonderful work. He was a Yogi of deep spiritual experiences and a sage of Supreme Order. He was a great social and religious reformer and laid the foundation of the great Bhakti movement in Maharashtra.
Last update : 18-10-2009 14:25
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