Overview
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke at the ‘Mira Bai Janmotsav‘ in Mathura, kicking off the event by releasing a commemorative stamp and a coin dedicated to Mira Bai.
The occasion, marking the 525th birth anniversary of the medieval Bhakti saint and Krishna devotee Mira Bai, saw the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, UP Governor Anandiben Patel, and Mathura MP Hema Malini on stage alongside the Prime Minister.
During his address, the PM emphasised that the celebration wasn’t just about Mira Bai’s birth anniversary but a tribute to India’s entire culture and tradition of love. He acknowledged Mira Bai’s role in nurturing the consciousness of India through her devotion and spiritualism. The prime minister highlighted Bharat’s longstanding devotion to Nari Shakti (women’s power).
An enchanting dance drama also unfolded in the ‘Braj Raj Mahotsav’ of Mathura, dedicated to every facet of Saint Mira Bai’s life, leaving the audience spellbound. Prime Minister Modi, sharing his experience on his X account, captured the mesmerising celebration and added that the performance left everyone spellbound.
Let us now delve into the enchanting life of Mira Bai, the woman whose devotion to Lord Krishna transcended time. Her story, a tapestry of love and spirituality, unfolds as we explore the chapters of her life. This timeless journey continues to resonate with the echoes of unwavering faith and divine connection.
Who is Mira Bai?
Mira Bai was a remarkable Hindu mystic and poet, born around 1498 in Kudaki, India. As a Rajput princess, her royal upbringing included a diverse education encompassing music, religion, politics, and governance. Her profound devotion to Lord Krishna, sparked by a childhood gift, manifested in lyrical songs that continue to resonate across northern India. Mira Bai’s life unfolded as a poetic journey, where her deep spiritual connection with Krishna shaped her legacy as a revered devotee and artist.
The Spark of Spirituality
Born into the Ranthor lineage, rulers of the small state of Merta in Marwar, Rajasthan, Mirabai’s father, Ratan Singh, was the grandson of Rao Duda ji, a descendant of the illustrious Rao Jodha ji Rathor, founder of Jodhpur.
Raised by her grandfather amidst the grandeur of royal traditions, Mirabai’s education blended scriptures, music, archery, fencing, horseback riding, and chariot driving—skills befitting a royal upbringing.
Yet, amid the worldly teachings, Mirabai’s heart resonated with the melody of Krishna’s consciousness.
From a tender age, the divine chord played a pivotal role in shaping her destiny.
A wandering Sadhu gifted her father a Shri Krishna doll at age three. This sacred token ignited Mira’s spiritual journey. Despite initial hesitation, her father relented, and Mira, captivated by the divine beauty, embraced it with unwavering devotion.
Her deep connection with Krishna unfolded further at the age of four during a marriage procession. In her innocence, she asked her mother about her future bridegroom, and with a smile blending jest and earnestness, her mother pointed to the image of Shri Krishna, declaring him as Mira’s destined husband.
As Mira Bai’s mother passed away, the young devotee’s desire to be with Krishna intensified, culminating in her firm conviction that Krishna would be her eternal companion. Thus, the extraordinary journey of Sant Mirabai, the devotee whose love transcended earthly bounds, unfolded against the backdrop of royal heritage and divine devotion.
The Journey to Spirituality
In 1516, Mira Bai married Bhoj Raj, the crown prince of Mewar. However, her marital bliss was short-lived, as her husband succumbed in 1521.
Subsequently, Mira Bai faced persecution and intrigue orchestrated by her brother-in-law, the new ruler, and later, by his successor, Vikram Singh. Defying the conventional role of a Rajput princess and widow, Mira Bai emerged as a rebel, dedicating her days to Krishna in her private temple.
Amidst adversity, Mira Bai sought solace in her deep religious pursuits, devoting her days to her private temple dedicated to Krishna. Here, she welcomed holy men and pilgrims from across India, composing soul-stirring songs of devotion.
Her unconventional path was met with resistance, and her life was fraught with danger. Poems allude to at least two attempts on her life—an offering of a poisonous snake concealed in a basket of flowers revealed an image of Krishna, and a cup of poison was consumed without harm.
Despite numerous attempts on her life, Mira Bai’s unwavering devotion remained untouched.
Faced with societal disapproval, Mira Bai departed from Mewar. She returned to Merta, only to find that her unconventional lifestyle was also unwelcome there.
Undeterred, she embarked on a series of pilgrimages, ultimately finding solace in Dwarka. Mira Bai’s journey, marked by resilience and devotion, transcended the boundaries of societal norms, leaving an indelible mark on the spiritual landscape of India.
On the auspicious day of Krishna Janmashtami, Meera, consumed by ecstatic devotion, sang and danced fervently in celebration of Sri Krishna’s birthday. In a trance, she approached the divine idol of Bhagavan Sri Krishna, stumbling and falling at the feet of the deity amidst the scattered flowers.
Suddenly, a lightning flash illuminated the surroundings, and the doors of the sanctum sanctorum closed. Minutes later, as the doors reopened, Meera Bai was nowhere to be found. Her saree, like a divine shroud, enfolded the murti of Krishna. People were astounded and heard the celestial melody of Meera’s singing harmonising with Krishna’s sacred flute.
In that mystical union, Meera Bai transcended the mortal realm, merging seamlessly with Krishna, the ultimate goal of every devoted soul. Through unwavering devotion, Meera attained moksha, a testament to the profound connection between the devotee and the divine on the sacred occasion of Krishna Janmashtami.
Mira Bai’s poetry
Meera Bai’s timeless compositions echo through the hearts of devotees in India, primarily as devotional songs (bhajans) with profound philosophical undertones. Among her celebrated works, “Payoji Maine Naam Ratan Dhan Payo” stands out, resonating with the richness of God’s name blessing. Crafted in the lyrical padas of the Rajasthani language, her verses are a melodic expression of deep devotion.
The treasure trove of Meera Bai’s poetic legacy finds its most extensive collection in manuscripts from the 19th century. Categorised among the northern Sant bhaktis, Meera’s verses are a poignant ode to the divine, mainly focused on the beloved God, Sri Krishna.
Her compositions, including the enchanting Raag Govind, soulful Govind Tika, melodious Raag Soratha, the heartfelt Meera Ki Malhar, and the timeless Mira Padavali, and Narsi Ji Ka Mayara, showcase the depth of her spiritual connection.
Mira Bai-An Icon of Nari Shakti
Mirabai’s defiance in the early 17th century challenged the notion that relegated women to subordinate roles in spiritual and worldly affairs. At a time when prominent Bhakti movement poets were exclusively men, Mirabai stood as a bold exception.
Mirabai’s uniqueness extended beyond her gender; born a princess, she embraced the life of a mendicant, choosing austerity and poverty for spiritual fulfilment and accepting Saint Ravidas, a member of the ‘untouchable’ caste of leather workers, as her guru further defied societal norms.
Some scholars attribute around two hundred songs and poems to Mirabai, emphasising her significant contribution to the Bhakti movement.
In the book “Songs of the Saints of India,” John Stratton Hawley lauds Mirabai’s fearless defiance, placing her as the only woman on the honour roll of north India Bhakti saints. Her rebellious spirit, captured in her poetry, challenges conventions and blends asceticism with aesthetics.
Mirabai’s legacy remains relevant today, resonating with contemporary women facing opposition to living independent and creative lives. In a society still pressuring single women to conform to traditional roles, Mirabai’s courageous story serves as a beacon for those who choose their path, regardless of social consequences.
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