Mirabai (1498-1547) was one of the greatest Bhakti poets in Indian history. She was a princess of Mewar in Rajasthan, but her life and her devotion were dedicated to Krishna. Mirabai is known for her unwavering love and devotion to Lord Krishna. Her poems and bhajans reflect the depth of love, devotion, dedication, and unconditional devotion to God.
Life of Mirabai
Birth and early life Mirabai was born in 1498 in Merta, Rajasthan. She was the daughter of Ratan Singh Rathore, a Rajput king. Mirabai was immersed in devotion to Lord Krishna since childhood. It is said that when she was very young, she considered the idol of Lord Krishna as her husband. Marriage Mirabai was married to King Bhojraj of Mewar, who was the son of Maharana Sanga. However, even after marriage, Mirabai's mind remained immersed in Lord Krishna. Her husband died shortly after marriage, but even in this difficult time, Mirabai never gave up her devotion and love for Lord Krishna. Struggle with family Mirabai's devotion was not accepted by her in-laws. They forced Mirabai several times to give up devotion to God and live a life like a princess, but Mirabai did not give up her love for God. Her family tried to kill Mirabai several times, but each time Lord Krishna saved her. Devotion and association with saints Mirabai devoted her life to the devotion of Lord Krishna regardless of society and family. She also joined the disciple group of Sant Ravidas, from whom she received deep guidance of devotion. Mirabai's life is a perfect example of sacrifice, love, and devotion. She left the attachment to worldly life and dedicated herself completely to the devotion of Lord Krishna.
Mirabai's devotion and poetry
Unique love for Krishna Mirabai's devotion and love for Lord Krishna was unique. She considered Shri Krishna as her husband, lover, and friend. Her hymns express deep love, affection, and devotion towards Krishna. Devotion to God in hymns Mirabai's hymns and poems are proof of her deep love for Lord Krishna. In her hymns, she says that every moment and every breath of her life is only for Krishna. Some of her famous bhajans are "Paayo Ji Main Ram Ratan Dhan Paayo" "Meera Ke Prabhu Girdhar Nagar" "Mai Ri, Main To Liyo Govind Mol" Sadhana and Tyaag Mirabai had renounced worldly pleasures and royal life and remained immersed in Krishna Bhakti till the end of her life. She often visited temples and pilgrimage places and remained immersed in devotion with saints. Poetic and Literary Contribution of Mirabai Mirabai's poems are considered to be an invaluable part of Bhakti Sahitya. Her works reflect immense love and surrender to Lord Krishna. Through her poems, she challenged the social bonds of the time and preached the path of devotion.
Contribution of Mirabai
Contribution to Bhakti Movement Mirabai's contribution to Bhakti Movement is unique. She dedicated her life completely to the path of love and devotion and tried to bring religious and social reforms in the society. Role of women in society Mirabai broke the social order and the limitations of women of that time. Even though she was a queen, she openly talked about devotion and love. Her life taught that on the path of devotion, anyone, be it a woman or a man, can attain God. Association with saints Mirabai also had contact with other saints such as Sant Ravidas, Tulsidas, and Surdas. She spent her life with saints on the path of devotion and imbibed their teachings.
Last days of Mirabai
Mirabai turned to Dwarka and Vrindavan in the last days of her life. It is said that she took her last breath at the feet of Lord Krishna in Vrindavan. There are many stories about the end of her life, but all agree that Mirabai merged her entire being in Krishna.
Teachings of Mirabai
Mirabai's life is a unique example of how God can be achieved through devotion and love. Her bhajans and poems even today inspire people to follow the path of devotion. Her life gives the message that when a person becomes completely devoted to God, no obstacle in the world can stop him.
