Sant Tukaram

Where was Sant Tukaram born?

Sant Tukaram, also known as Tukaram Maharaj, was a prominent poet-saint of the Bhakti movement in India. He was born in the village of Dehu, located in present-day Maharashtra, India.

Dehu was a small village situated on the banks of the Indrayani River, about 25 kilometers from the city of Pune. Tukaram's father, Bolhoba More, was a farmer and his mother, Kanakai, was a devout follower of Lord Vitthal, a form of the Hindu god Vishnu. They were a simple and religious family, and Tukaram grew up in an environment deeply rooted in spirituality and devotion.

Tukaram was born in the year 1598 in a time when the Bhakti movement was gaining momentum in India. This movement emphasized the importance of personal devotion and love towards God, rather than strict adherence to religious rituals and caste systems. Tukaram's family was deeply influenced by this movement, and he grew up listening to stories of saints and their devotion to God.

Tukaram's early life was marked by various struggles and hardships. He lost his parents at a young age and was married off to a woman named Rakhumabai, who was also a devotee of Lord Vitthal. However, their marriage was not a happy one, and Tukaram faced constant criticism and ridicule from his wife and in-laws for his devotion to God. Despite these challenges, Tukaram remained steadfast in his faith and continued to express his devotion through his poetry.

Tukaram's fame as a poet-saint spread far and wide, and people from all walks of life came to seek his blessings and guidance. He used his poetry to spread the message of love, compassion, and devotion to God, and his words had a profound impact on the people of Maharashtra. He also composed numerous abhangas (devotional songs) in the Marathi language, which are still sung and cherished by people today.

In his later years, Tukaram left his home and family to embark on a spiritual journey, traveling to various holy places and meeting other saints and devotees. He passed away in the year 1650 in the village of Dehu, where he was born.

Sant Tukaram's legacy continues to live on, and his teachings and poetry continue to inspire people to this day. His birthplace, Dehu, has become a place of pilgrimage for his followers, and his samadhi (tomb) is a revered site for devotees. Sant Tukaram's life and teachings serve as a reminder of the power of devotion and love towards God, and his words continue to bring peace and solace to those who seek it.