SAINTS OF RAJASTHAN

DADU DAYAL

Dadu Dayal Ji was a mystic saint and poet who played a significant role in the Bhakti movement in Rajasthan, promoting the path of Nirguna Bhakti (devotion to a formless God). His teachings emphasized spiritual equality and inner devotion, drawing followers from various social backgrounds and inspiring the formation of a spiritual sect known as the Dadupanth.

• Birth: Dadu Dayal Ji was born in Ahmedabad (present-day Gujarat).
• Early Life: He was raised by a Brahmin named Lodiram, who provided him with a nurturing environment for spiritual growth.
• Guru: Dadu Dayal Ji’s spiritual mentors included Brahmanand Ji, Vridanand, and Budhan Baba, who guided him on the path of spiritual enlightenment.
• Time in Rajasthan: In his early days in Rajasthan, Dadu Dayal lived in Sambhar, later settling in Amber (near Jaipur), which became a key center for his spiritual activities.
• Main Center: The primary center for Dadu Dayal Ji’s teachings was Naraina in the Jaipur district. Here, he attracted many followers and established a strong base for his spiritual teachings.

Teachings and Philosophy of Dadu Dayal Ji

• Message of Nirguna Devotion: Dadu Dayal Ji emphasized Nirguna Bhakti, devotion to a formless God. He taught that God transcends physical forms and rituals, and true spirituality lies in inner devotion and self-realization.
• Title: He is often referred to as the “Kabir of Rajasthan” due to his devotional songs and philosophies that are similar to those of Sant Kabir, focusing on the oneness of God and spiritual equality.
• Language of Sermons: Dadu Dayal Ji delivered his sermons in the Dhundhari dialect, which made his teachings accessible to the common people of Rajasthan.
• Satsang Sthal: His spiritual gatherings, known as Satsangs, were held at Alakh Dariba, where followers gathered to listen to his teachings and engage in devotional practices.
• Nipakh Movement: He initiated the Nipakh movement, which aimed to purify the spiritual practices of his followers by emphasizing simplicity and true devotion over elaborate rituals.

Interaction with Royalty

• Meeting with King Bhagwant Das and Akbar: In 1585 AD, Dadu Dayal Ji met King Bhagwant Das of Amber at Fatehpur Sikri, where he also had an encounter with Emperor Akbar. This meeting highlighted the respect and influence Dadu Dayal had among the rulers of his time.

Dadupanth and Its Traditions

• Dadupanth Temples: The temples associated with the Dadupanth are known as Dadu Dwaras. These places of worship are dedicated to Dadu Dayal Ji and serve as centers for spiritual gatherings and devotional practices.
• Scripture “Vani”: In the temples, the Vani (sayings) of Dadu Dayal Ji are revered and worshiped as sacred texts. The Vani contains his teachings and spiritual messages, which are recited by followers during prayers.
• Unique Funeral Practice: Followers of the Dadupanth practice a unique funeral tradition. Unlike the conventional methods of cremation or burial, they leave the bodies of the deceased for animals and birds to consume, symbolizing a return to nature and the cycle of life.
• Resting Place: After his passing, the body of Dadu Dayal Ji was kept on the Bhairana Ki Pahadi in Jaipur, known as Dadukhol or Dadupalaka. This site is considered sacred by his followers.
• Disciples: Dadu Dayal Ji had 52 disciples, known as the “52 pillars”, who played a crucial role in spreading his teachings and establishing the Dadupanth.

Branches of Dadupanth

The Dadupanth has several branches, each emphasizing different aspects of Dadu Dayal Ji’s teachings:

1. Khalsa
2. Virakta
3. Uttrade
4. Khaki
5. Naga: This branch is known for its ascetic warriors, who carried weapons for self-defense and protection of spiritual values.

Major Disciples of Dadu Dayal Ji

1. Sundaradas Ji (Bhimraj)
   • Background: His real name was Bhimraj, and he was the son of Jaitasi, the ruler of Bikaner.
   • Contributions: He established the Naga branch of the Dadupanth, which is known for its warrior ascetics.
   • Role in Defense: The Naga Sadhus assisted King Pratap Singh of Jaipur during Maratha invasions, showcasing their commitment to protecting the region and its values.
2. Rajjab Ji
   • Background: He was a Pathan from Sanganer who became a devoted follower of Dadu Dayal Ji.
   • Lifestyle: Rajjab Ji embraced celibacy and lived in the “groom’s dress” after being inspired by Daduji’s teachings, dedicating his life to spirituality.
   • Literary Works: He authored “Rajab Vani” and “Sarvangi”, which contain spiritual discourses and teachings.
3. Sundaradas Ji ‘Chote’
   • Background: He was born into a Vaishya family and became a devout disciple of Dadu Dayal Ji.
   • Literary Contributions: He wrote 42 texts, with major works including “Samudra Samudra” and “Sundar Sagar”.
   • Resting Place: His tomb is located in Getolaav (Dausa), a place of pilgrimage for his followers.
4. Balind Ji
   • Literary Work: He authored a text called “Arylo”, contributing to the spiritual literature of the Dadupanth.
5. Other Disciples:
   • Garib Das Ji
   • Miskindas Ji
   • Bakhna Ji
   • Madhodas Ji

Dadu Dayal Ji’s teachings of spiritual equality, devotion to a formless God, and inner purity continue to inspire people across Rajasthan and beyond. His legacy is preserved through the Dadupanth, the Dadu Dwaras, and the sacred texts left behind by him and his disciples. The fair held in Naraina from Falgun Shukla Panchami to Ekadashi draws devotees who come together to celebrate his teachings and pay homage to his spiritual contributions.

JAMBHOJI

Jambhoji, a revered saint and spiritual leader from Rajasthan, is known for his teachings that emphasized environmental conservation and non-violence. He is the founder of the Bishnoi sect, which is known for its commitment to protecting nature and wildlife.

• Place of Birth: Jambhoji was born in Pimpsar (Nagaur), Rajasthan, into a Panwar Rajput family.
• Parents: His father was Lohat Ji, and his mother was Hansabai.
• Childhood Name: He was known as Dhanraj in his childhood.
• Incarnation of Vishnu: Jambhoji is considered to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, embodying divine virtues and wisdom.
• Founding of the Bishnoi Sect: He delivered 29 sermons to his followers at Samrathal (Bikaner), which formed the basis of the Bishnoi (meaning “29”) sect. The sect’s principles revolve around non-violence, environmental conservation, and respect for all living beings.
• Death and Main Center: Jambhoji attained Samadhi (spiritual resting place) in Lalasar (Bikaner), and his main center is in Mukam (Bikaner), which is a prominent pilgrimage site for his followers.
• Fair: A fair is held at Mukam on Ashwin Amavasya and Phalgun Amavasya, attracting devotees who gather to honor his teachings.
• Role in History: Jambhoji was a contemporary of Sikandar Lodi, the Sultan of Delhi. He is known to have influenced Sikandar Lodi to stop cow slaughter and to provide fodder in the Bikaner region during a famine. His teachings also earned the respect of Rao Jodha (Jodhpur) and Rao Bika (Bikaner).
• Sermons: His teachings, known as Santharia, promote values like protecting trees, non-violence towards animals, and simple living.
• Main Temples: Major temples associated with Jambhoji are located in:
  1. Mukam (Bikaner)
  2. Janglu (Bikaner)
  3. Ramdavas (Jodhpur)
  4. Jambha (Jodhpur)
• Teachings:
  1. Protecting Green Trees: Jambhoji taught that green trees should not be cut, emphasizing the importance of preserving nature.
  2. Prohibition of Animal Violence: He strongly opposed animal cruelty and promoted non-violence.
  3. Rejection of Blue Clothes: He advised against wearing blue clothes, as their dyeing process harmed the environment.
  4. Encouragement of Widow Marriage: He supported widow remarriage, challenging social norms of the time.
• Title: Jambhoji is often referred to as a “scientific saint” for his environmentally conscious teachings.

JASNATH JI

Jasnath Ji was a saint from Rajasthan who founded a spiritual sect known for its unique rituals and emphasis on moral discipline.

• Place of Birth: He was born in Katariyasar (Bikaner) into a Jat family.
• Parents: His father was Hammir, and his mother was Rupade.
• Main Center: His primary spiritual center is in Katariyasar (Bikaner).
• Historical Role: He met Jambhoji in Gorakhmalia (Bikaner) in 1500 AD and shared a spiritual connection with him. He was also a contemporary of Sikandar Lodi, who donated land to him near Katariyasar.
• Role in Bikaner: Jasnath Ji blessed Lunakaran of Bikaner, enabling him to become a ruler.
• Teachings: He delivered 36 sermons to guide his followers toward a disciplined and spiritual life.
• Ritual Practices: His followers wear black woolen threads around their necks and consider peacock feathers and the net tree to be sacred.
• Agni Dance: One of the unique traditions of his followers is the Agni dance, which involves performing near fire as an act of devotion.
• Wife: His wife, Kalalde, is also worshipped by his followers.
• Fair: Fairs in honor of Jasnath Ji are held three times a year:
  1. Chaitra Shukla Saptami
  2. Ashwin Shukla Saptami
  3. Magha Shukla Saptami
• Major Texts: His teachings and traditions are preserved in texts such as “Simbhudada” and “Konda”.
• Other Centers: Important centers of his followers include Bamlu, Likhamadesar, Poonrasar, Malasar, and Panchala Siddha (Nagaur).
• Samadhi Tradition: The Samadhi of saints in his sect is referred to as Badi, with 84 prominent Badis known for their spiritual significance.

CHARANDAS JI

Charandas Ji was a mystic saint whose teachings combined elements of Sagun Bhakti (worship with form) and Nirgun Bhakti (worship without form).

• Place of Birth: He was born in Dehra (Alwar).
• Parents: His father was Muraligar, and his mother was Kunjobai.
• Childhood Name: He was known as Ranjeet during his early years.
• Guru: He was a disciple of Sukhdev, who guided him on his spiritual path.
• Main Center: His spiritual activities were centered in Delhi, where he attracted numerous followers.
• Fair: A fair is held in his honor on Basant Panchami, celebrating his teachings and legacy.
• Teachings: Charandas Ji provided 42 sermons to his followers, which emphasized spiritual discipline and devotion.
• Dress Code: His followers are known for wearing yellow-colored clothes, symbolizing purity and devotion.
• Prediction: He is believed to have predicted the invasion of Nadir Shah of Iran in 1739 AD, highlighting his spiritual foresight.
• Major Disciples:
  1. Daya Bai: Author of “Daya Bodh” and “Vinay Malika”.
  2. Sahajobai: Known for the text “Sahaj Prakash”.
• Worship Style: His followers worship Lord Krishna with Sakhi Bhava (a devotional sentiment).
• Language of Sermons: He delivered his teachings in the Mewati language, making them accessible to the people of the Mewat region.
• Royal Patronage: When Charandas Ji visited Jaipur, Sawai Pratap Singh granted him land in Koliwara in recognition of his spiritual stature.

LALDAS JI

Laldas Ji was a saint and spiritual leader whose teachings had a significant influence in the Mewat region of Rajasthan.

• Place of Birth: He was born in Dholidub (Alwar).
• Parents: His father was Chandmal, and his mother was Samada.
• Samadhi: Laldas Ji attained Samadhi in Sherpur (Alwar).
• Main Center: His primary spiritual center is in Nangala Jahaj (Bharatpur).
• Fair: Fairs in his honor are held on Ashwin Shukla Ekadashi and Magha Purnima.
• Guru: He was a disciple of Gaddan Chishti, who influenced his spiritual journey.
• Teachings: Laldas Ji delivered his sermons in the Mewati language, focusing on the spiritual upliftment of the people in the region.
• Literary Contribution: He authored “Laldas Ki Chetawani”, a text that compiles his spiritual insights.
• Influence in Mewat: His teachings had a lasting impact on the Mewat region, where his followers continue to uphold his values of devotion and simplicity.
• Bandholi: He spent a considerable part of his life in Bandholi (Alwar), which became a significant center for his teachings. His son, Qutub Khan, also established a spiritual center in Bandholi, continuing his father’s legacy.

SAINT HARIDAS JI

Saint Haridas Ji, originally named Hari Singh Sankla, underwent a spiritual transformation, transitioning from a dacoit to a monk.

• Place of Birth: He was born in Kapodod (Nagaur), Rajasthan.
• Main Center: His primary spiritual center was in Gadha (Didwana), where he attracted followers and spread his teachings.
• Spiritual Path: He founded the Haridasi or “Niranjani Sampradaya”, a sect that emphasizes devotion and spiritual discipline.
• Teachings: Haridas Ji taught both Nirgun Bhakti (devotion to a formless God) and Saguna Bhakti (worship of God with form), encouraging a balanced spiritual approach.
• Books: He authored two significant texts:
  1. Mantra Raj Prakash
  2. Hari Purush Ki Vaani

SAINT MAVJI

Saint Mavji is revered for his devotion to Lord Krishna and for founding the Niskalanki sect.

• Place of Birth: He was born in Sabla (Dungarpur), Rajasthan.
• Spiritual Beliefs: He worshipped Lord Krishna as a Niskalanki avatar, which means a pure and unblemished incarnation.
• Niskalanki Sect: His followers believe that he is the Kalki avatar of Vishnu, the prophesied future incarnation who would bring justice to the world.
• Literary Contributions: He composed the Krishna Leela in the Vagadi language, narrating the divine exploits of Lord Krishna.
• Major Texts: His primary work is “Chopda”, a dialogue-style text read during Diwali that contains predictions. It is divided into five parts:
  1. Prem Sagar
  2. Megh Sagar
  3. Sam Sagar
  4. Ratan Sagar
  5. Ananth Sagar
• Spiritual Centers:

• Beneshwar Dham (Dungarpur): Founded by Mavji, it is a major pilgrimage site for his followers.
• Other centers include Sheshpur and Punjpur.

Balanandacharya

Balanandacharya was a militant saint known for his resistance against Mughal rule and for protecting religious heritage.

• Main Center: His primary center was Lohargal (Jhunjhunu), where he led his followers.
• Role as a “Lashkar Saint”: Balanandacharya is known as a Lashkar saint because he maintained a small army for the protection of religious freedom.
• Contemporary of Aurangzeb: He played a pivotal role during Aurangzeb’s rule by saving 52 idols from destruction and relocating them to safe places.
• Alliances: He supported Raj Singh of Mewar and Durgadas Rathore of Marwar in their struggle against Aurangzeb, making him a significant figure in the preservation of Rajasthan’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

NAWALDAS JI

Nawaldas Ji was a saint known for his contributions to spiritual literature and founding the Naval sect.

• Place of Birth: He was born in Harsolav (Nagaur).
• Main Center: His spiritual activities were centered in Jodhpur, where he spread his teachings.
• Sect: He founded the Naval sect, focusing on spiritual wisdom and discipline.
• Book: He authored “Navaleshwar Anubhavani”, which outlines his spiritual experiences and insights.

LALGIRI JI

Lalgiri Ji was a spiritual leader who founded the Alakhia sect, known for its mystical practices.

• Place of Birth: He was born in Sulkhania (Churu).
• Main Center: His spiritual base was in Bikaner, Rajasthan.
• Sect: He established the Alakhia sect, which emphasizes meditative practices and spiritual discipline.
• Book: He composed “Alakh Stuti Prakas”, a text dedicated to the praise of the formless divine.

SAINT DHANNA

Saint Dhanna was a Bhakti saint known for initiating the Bhakti movement in Rajasthan.

• Place of Birth: He was born in Dhuvan (Tonk) into a Jat family.
• Guru: He was a disciple of Ramanand Ji, a renowned Bhakti saint.
• Role in Bhakti Movement: He played a significant role in spreading devotion to a formless God in Rajasthan, focusing on love and devotion over rituals.
• Temple: A temple dedicated to him is located in Boranada (Jodhpur), serving as a site of worship for his followers.
• Influence Beyond Rajasthan: Saint Dhanna is also revered in Punjab for his contributions to the Bhakti movement.

SAINT PEEPA

Saint Peepa, originally known as Pratap Singh Khinchi, was a king who renounced his throne for a life of spirituality.

• Place of Birth: He was the king of Gagraun (Jhalawad) before becoming a saint.
• Spiritual Path: He was a disciple of Ramanand Ji, one of the leading figures of the Bhakti movement, and was among the 12 main disciples of Ramanand Ji.
• Role in Society: Saint Peepa is especially revered as the patron deity of the tailor community.
• Teachings: He emphasized Nirguna Bhakti, teaching that God is beyond physical form and can be realized through inner devotion.
• Main Temple: His main temple is in Samdadi (Barmer), and his cenotaph is in Gagraun.
• Cave: He meditated in a cave in Toda (Tonk), which is considered a sacred site by his followers.
• Fair: A fair is held on Chaitra Purnima in his honor.
• Books: He is credited with works like:
  1. Pampa Praparchi
  2. P Chidhana
  3. P Pampa Katha
• Influence: King Shursen of Toda was inspired by his teachings and distributed his wealth among the saints under Peepa’s guidance.

SANTDAS JI

Santdas Ji was a spiritual leader known for establishing the Godh sect.

• Main Center: His spiritual activities were centered in Dantda (Bhilwara), Rajasthan.
• Sect: He founded the Godh sect, which emphasizes spiritual discipline and devotion.

RAJARAM JI

Rajaram Ji is remembered for his teachings on environmental protection and his influence in the Patel community.

• Main Center: His spiritual base was in Shikarpura (Jodhpur).
• Teachings: Rajaram Ji’s teachings focused on the importance of preserving nature and protecting the environment. He emphasized the need for harmony between humans and nature.
• Community Influence: He holds a special place in the hearts of the Patel community, who follow his teachings with devotion.

NARAHAD PIR (HAZRAT SHAKKAR BABA)

Narahad Pir, also known as Hazrat Shakkar Baba, is a revered Sufi saint known for promoting communal harmony.

• Main Center: His spiritual center is in Narhad (Jhunjhunu), which is known for its atmosphere of Hindu-Muslim unity.
• Fair: A fair is held on Krishna Janmashtami at his shrine, attracting people of various faiths seeking blessings.
• Role in Healing: His shrine is especially known for providing spiritual healing to those suffering from mental ailments.
• Title: He is often referred to as “Bagad ka Dhani” (the Lord of Bagad).
• Disciples: Among his notable disciples was Salim Chishti, a prominent Sufi saint.

MEERA BAI

Meera Bai is one of the most revered Bhakti saints and poets in Indian history, celebrated for her devotion to Lord Krishna. Her life and works have inspired generations, and she remains a symbol of unwavering faith and love for the divine.

• Place of Birth: She was born in Kudki (Pali district), Rajasthan.
• Family:
  • Father: Ratan Singh, a feudal lord of Bajoli, who was martyred while fighting alongside Rana Sanga in the Battle of Khanwa against the Mughal emperor Babur.
  • Grandfather: Meera Bai was raised under the care of her grandfather, Duda Ji, in Merta, where she developed her early devotion to Lord Krishna.
• Husband: Bhojraj, also known as Bhojraj Singh, the eldest son of Rana Sanga of Mewar. He passed away early in their marriage, which deepened Meera Bai’s devotion to Lord Krishna.
• Devotional Practices: Meera Bai worshipped Lord Krishna as her divine husband, focusing on the Sagun form of devotion, where she visualized Krishna in a personal and loving form.
• Spiritual Mentor: Her Guru was Raidas (Ravidas), a saint and poet of the Bhakti movement, whose teachings greatly influenced her spiritual journey.
  • Cenotaph: The cenotaph of Raidas Ji is located in the fort of Chittor, signifying his importance in the region.
• Spiritual Union: According to tradition, Meera Bai is believed to have merged with the idol of Lord Krishna at the Ranchhod Temple in Dwarka, Gujarat, attaining eternal union with her divine love.
• Mahatma Gandhi’s View: Mahatma Gandhi regarded Meera Bai as a “satyagrahi woman,” highlighting her resilience and commitment to her principles, as she struggled against societal pressures and injustice to pursue her devotion to Krishna.
• Title: She is often referred to as the “Radha of Rajasthan”, drawing a parallel with Radha’s love for Krishna in Hindu mythology.
• Literary Contributions:
  • “Rukmani Mangal”
  • “Satyabhama Nu Roussano”
  • “Geet Govind”
  • “Narsi Ji Row Mayro” (co-authored with Ratna Khati)
  • “Padawali”, a collection of her devotional songs.
• Historical Perspective: Dr. Gopinath Sharma stated, “In the Rajput families, whose women take pride in the practice of Jauhar and who have maintained the principle of staying true to their religion, Meera told the world that she too was the same Rajput woman—one who will always stand firm on her determination, no matter how terrible the consequences. She cannot be ready for any kind of compromise for her deep love for Krishna.”

RANA BAI

Rana Bai is a revered devotee of Lord Krishna, known for her spiritual dedication and devotion.

• Main Temple: The Harnawa Temple in Nagaur is dedicated to Rana Bai, where a large fair is organized every year on Bhadrapad Shukla Trayodashi, attracting devotees from across the region.
• Family: Her mother was Ganga Bai, and her father was Ram Gopal.
• Spiritual Guide: She was a disciple of Saint Chaturdas Ji of Paladi, who guided her in her devotion to Krishna.
• Role in History: It is believed that Rana Bai provided protection to Maharaja Abhay Singh of Jodhpur during his campaign in Ahmedabad, reflecting her courage and influence.
• Title: She is often referred to as the “second Meera of Rajasthan” due to her deep devotion to Krishna and her unwavering faith.

GAVRI BAI

Gavri Bai is another prominent female devotee of Lord Krishna from Rajasthan, known for her devotion and spiritual legacy in the Vagad region.

• Title: She is called the “Meera of Vagad”, a region in southern Rajasthan.
• Temple: Maharawal Shiv Singh of Dungarpur built a Bal-Mukund Temple, which is also known as “Gavri Bai’s Temple,” in recognition of her devotion to Krishna. The temple remains an important site for her followers.

BHAKT KAVI DURLAB

Bhakt Kavi Durlab is a renowned devotional poet from the Vagad region of Rajasthan, known for his devotional verses.

• Title: He is often referred to as the “Narsingh of Vagad”, drawing a comparison to Sant Narsingh Mehta, a famous Gujarati poet-saint known for his devotion to Lord Krishna. His poetry emphasizes spiritual love and devotion.

SECTS OF RAJASTHAN

VALLABH SAMPRADAYA / RUDRA / PUSHTIMARGA SAMPRADAYA

The Vallabh Sampradaya, also known as Pushtimarga or the Rudra Sampradaya, was founded by Vallabhacharya and emphasizes devotion (bhakti) to Lord Krishna in his child form. It is a prominent sect in Rajasthan with a rich tradition of worship and art.

• Worship: Devotees focus on worshipping Bal Krishna (child Krishna), expressing pure love and devotion through rituals and ceremonies.
• Temples: Temples in this sect are known as Havelis, reflecting the mansion-like architecture and detailed artistry. These temples are famous for their intimate atmosphere that replicates the comfort of a home for Lord Krishna.
• Haveli Sangeet: The devotional music sung in these temples is called Haveli Sangeet, which is a form of classical music that enhances the spiritual ambiance.
• Pichhwai Art: The artworks or paintings displayed behind the idol of Shri Krishna are known as Pichhwai. These depict various episodes from Krishna’s life, and the Pichhwai of Nathdwara is especially famous for its intricate detail and vibrant colors.
• Major Temples in Rajasthan:
  1. Mathuresh Ji – Kota
  2. Shri Nath Ji – Sihad (Nathdwara)
  3. Dwarkadhish – Kakroli (Rajsamand)
  4. Gokul Chandra – Kaman (Bharatpur)
  5. Madan Mohan – Kaman (Bharatpur)
• Presence in Rajasthan: There are 41 temples of the Vallabh sect in Rajasthan, making it a significant center for Krishna devotion in the region.

RAMANANDI SECT

The Ramanandi Sect is dedicated to Lord Ram, with followers worshipping him as the Rasik Nayak (Supreme Enjoyer), hence it is also known as the Rasik Sampradaya.

• Worship: This sect places a strong emphasis on devotion to Lord Ram and the spiritual love story of Ram and Sita, often depicting their relationship through literature and poetry.
• Text: The book “Ram Rassou” by Krishna Bhatt narrates the love story of Ram and Sita. It was written during the time of Sawai Jai Singh, reflecting the cultural influence of the sect in Jaipur.
• Major Centers:
  1. Galtaji (Jaipur): Founded by Krishna Das “Payahari”, Galtaji is a major pilgrimage site. It was also the meditation site of Sage Galav in ancient times and is renowned for its Sun Temple. It serves as the chief seat of the Ramanuja sect, often referred to as the Northern Totadri.
     • Royal Influence: Amber King Prithvi Raj and his queen Balabai were devoted followers of Krishna Das Payahari.
  2. Raivasa (Sikar): This center was established by Agradas Ji, contributing to the spread of the sect in Rajasthan.

NIMBARK CULT

The Nimbark Cult focuses on the dual worship of Radha and Krishna, emphasizing their divine love and spiritual union.

• Main Center: The primary center of this sect is in Salemabad (Ajmer), which is also known as Parshurampuri.
• Founder: The founder of the sect is Parshuram Ji, born into a Brahmin family in Khandela. His Charanpadukas (footprints) are revered at the Salemabad temple.
  • Writings: Parshuram Ji authored “Parashuram Sagar” and “Vipramati”, which are foundational texts of the sect.
• Worship: Devotees regard Radha Ji as the divine consort of Shri Krishna, celebrating their love through bhajans and rituals.
• Fair: The Radhaashtami Fair is celebrated on Bhadrapad Shukla Ashtami, attracting thousands of devotees.
• Royal Connection: Maharaja Jagatsingh II of Jaipur visited Salemabad to seek blessings for a son, highlighting the sect’s influence among the Rajput rulers.
• Cultural Influence: The Nimbark sect also played a significant role in the Shekhawati region, where Shekhawat rulers were devoted to Lord Krishna. They considered Gopinath Ji as their tutelary deity and supported the Raas Mandal, which propagated the sect’s teachings through bhajan congregations. The influence of the Nimbark sect is also visible in Shekhawati paintings.

RAMSNEHI SECT

The Ramsnehi Sect emphasizes Nirguna Bhakti (devotion to a formless God) and monotheism.

• Worship Style: Unlike other sects, the Ramsnehi sect does not worship Dasharatha’s son Ram but instead worships Nirguna Ram, the formless aspect of God. Their saints are known for wearing pink-colored clothes.
• Main Centers:
  1. Shahpura (Bhilwara): Founded by Ramcharan Ji, who was born in Soda village (Tonk). His original name was Ramkishan, and he served as a minister in Jaipur before becoming a saint. Ramcharan Ji received his initiation from Guru Kriparam Ji at Dantada (Bhilwara). He preached monotheism and opposed idolatry. The teachings of Ramcharan Ji are compiled in “Anabhavani”.
  2. Ren (Nagaur): Founded by Dariyav Ji, this center further spread the teachings of the sect.
  3. Sinthal (Bikaner): Founded by Hariramdas Ji, who wrote “Nishani,” a book on yoga.
  4. Khedapa (Jodhpur): Founded by Ramdas Ji.
     • Jaimaldas is considered the Adi Acharya (original teacher) of the Sinthal and Khedapa branches.
• Fair: The Fulladol Fair is held on the day after Holi in Shahpura (Bhilwara), drawing devotees to celebrate the teachings of the sect.

PARNAMI SECT

The Parnami Sect is a spiritual community that emphasizes devotion and meditation.

• Main Center: The primary center of this sect is in Panna (Madhya Pradesh).
• Founder: The sect was founded by Prannath, a saint known for his spiritual teachings.
• Rajasthan Presence: A significant Parnami temple is located in Adarsh Nagar (Jaipur).
• Main Text: The spiritual teachings of the sect are compiled in “Kujalam Swaroop,” which serves as the core scripture of the community.

NATH SECT

The Nath Sect is a Shaivite tradition that emphasizes yoga and spiritual discipline. It was founded by Nath Muni and has a rich history in Rajasthan.

• Spiritual Focus: The sect focuses on yogic practices and the worship of Lord Shiva, blending ascetic practices with devotional elements.
• Historical Significance: Gorakh dune in Nohar (Hanumangarh) is an important site, believed to be the place where Guru Gorakhnath, a key figure in the sect, lived.
• Branches in Rajasthan: The Nath Sect has 12 branches, two of which are prominent in Rajasthan:
  1. Vairag-Panthi: Centered in Ratadunga, Nagaur, with Bhartrihari as its first preacher.
  2. Man-Panthi: The main temple is at the Mahamandir in Jodhpur, founded by Maharaja Maan Singh of Jodhpur, with Ayas Devnath as his guru.
• Royal Connections:

• In 852 AD, King Devraj Bhati of Lodrava (Jaisalmer) was conferred the title of Rawal by Yogi Ratananath, highlighting the close ties between Nath yogis and regional rulers.
• According to historical accounts, Rawal Mallinath of Marwar was born with the blessings of Yogi Ratan Nath.
• The Veeramayan by Badar Dhadhi mentions that Gogadev Rathore of Shergarh (Jodhpur) received a boon from Jalandhar Nath, who had a temple in the fort of Jalore.