Rajasthani Saints & Bhakti Literature

1. Introduction to Bhakti in Rajasthan

The Bhakti movement in Rajasthan (15th-18th century) was a spiritual revolution and literary golden age. It is divided into two streams: • Saguna Bhakti: Devotion to God with form (e.g., Mirabai, Mavji). • Nirguna Bhakti: Devotion to formless God (e.g., Dadu Dayal, Jambhoji, Jasnathji).

2. Major Saints and Sects

Mirabai (The Radha of Rajasthan)

• Born in Kudki (Pali), married into Mewar royalty. • Works: Padavali, Rukmani Mangal, Raag Govind. Her language is Marwari-mixed Braj.

Dadu Dayal (The Kabir of Rajasthan)

• Established Dadu Panth. Principal seat at Naraina (Jaipur). • Works: Dadu Dayal ri Vani, Dadu Dayal ra Duha. Style known as Sadukkadi.

The Panch Peer (Five Warrior-Saints)

• Ramdevji: Pioneer of equality. Wrote 24 Bania (the only deity-author). • Gogaji, Pabuji, Harbhu-ji, Mehaji.

Other Influential Saints

• Jambhoji: Founder of Vishnoi sect. 29 principles. Works: Shabadvaani. • Jasnathji: Founder of Jasnathi sect. 36 principles. Seat at Katriyasar. • Saint Mavji: Founder of Niskalanki sect. Wrote Chopda (in Vagadi). • Saint Peepa: King turned saint. Patron of the tailor community. • Saint Dhanna: Pioneer who initiated the movement from Tonk.