#meerabai

[shotsyfeather]

बनता है क्यूँ तू पगले खुद ही खुद की बाधा तू भी ढून्ढ ले खुद में जा के कोई मीरा कोई राधा

Pictures from Instagram

[achyutapriya]

𝐉𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐢 𝐓𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞

⭑･ﾟﾟ･*:༅｡.｡༅:*ﾟ:*:✼✿✼:*ﾟ:༅｡.｡༅:*･ﾟﾟ･⭑

The Jagat shiromani temple ( Jewel on the head of Lord Vishnu) also known as Meerabai temple located in Amer, Rajasthan. Constructed between 1599 and 1608 is believed to house the idol of Shree Krishna which Meerabai herself worshipped. The idol of Krishna was saved by the rulers of Amer from the Mughal invaders in Mewar and was brought back here.

The garbagriha of the temple houses the idol of Lord Vishnu in white marble, and the idols of Shree Krishna and Meerabai. It is believed that it is the only temple where Krishna and Meerabai are worshipped together.

Built on top of a small hill, one of the most striking features of the temple are it's beautiful 'Torans' (ornamental archways which are usually found in Jain temples). In the canopy adjacent to the temple is a beautifully chiselled statue of Garuda, Lord Vishnu's carrier. The walls and the ceilings of the temple are carved with elephants, horses and scenes from various religious scriptures. One of the entrances of the temple is through the stairways of the Amer fort leading to the temple courtyard.

⭑･ﾟﾟ･*:༅｡.｡༅:*ﾟ:*:✼✿✼:*ﾟ:༅｡.｡༅:*･ﾟﾟ･⭑

[ahamasmiyodhah]

राणे वर रा काई पर्णीजूँ जनम जनम मर जाये,

वर पर्णीजूँ साँवरो म्हारो अमर चुड़ो होइ जाय।

मान कह्यो मोरो माय म्हणे साँवरियो परणाये...!

𝐌𝐄𝐄𝐑𝐀 𝐁𝐀𝐈; those who loses themselves to the lotus feet of Krishna are never lost, for Krishna himself guides them.

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ᴘᴀʀᴛ ɪɪ ᴘᴀʀᴛ ɪɪɪ

@harinishivaa @mahi-wayy @zeherili-ankhein @houseofbreadpakoda @warnermeadowsgirl @thecrazyinktrovert @thegleamingmoon @yehsahihai @willkatfanfromasia @krsnaradhika @desigurlie @hum-suffer @ramayantika @mrityuloknative

[kamal-nayan]

Growing up I heard a lot about Mirabai, but never thought I would understand and relate to her so much!!

Kanha has such ways to get you, in the best possible manner hehe.

[bhairavirasingh]

Meera Ke Prabhu Girdhar Naagar

Krishna looked on

As he had looked on when she had been given poison which turned to nectar when she offered it to him

As he had looked on when snakes were thrown at her but again she offered it to him like flowers and it turned into a garland

It was just his murti that looked on

But for Meera it was really him

How else would she be saved from death's grasp every time if it wasn't Krishna himself looking out for her?

She sang to him as she always did but tonight there was a sad undertone

She had had enough

Despite being the queen, she was constantly harassed by her devar

She remininsced about her husband who she respected. He let her do her duties and then spend the rest of the time in the temple of the Mahal with her beloved Krishna. But after his death, she was being tormented by his brother.

She folded her hands to Krishna's murti and then at the jauhar kund where her mother in law, the late Maharani, had done jauhar with thousands of other women when Akbar had attacked Chittorgarh

"Mother, not everyone can do what you did. Not even me. You held on to your honour till your very last breath. But jauhar is done by those when the invaders close in with their egos. What about those who are attacked by their own family? There is no such pratha that can save them. My husband, your son, was a benevolent king. But your other son.. If I commit Jauhar my image will be tarnished forever because there are no invaders. Jauhar is done by those who have no other hope, mother. But I have one." she turned to look at her Krishna with teary eyes

"The only element I'd let myself to be consumed by is him. My only hope since birth, to death, is him."

"Maharani" a daasi entered the temple and curtsied "I apologize for interrupting your prayers."

Meera didn't turn around but she closed her eyes and nodded as the tears rolled down

"Your highness, you really need to leave. He is on his way back to the palace. I can't see you-" she stopped herself as she was about to mention Meera's bruises and scars caused by her brother in law's abuse

It was a wonder indeed because when the daasi had seen them for the first time and pointed it out Meera had calmly replied that she didn't feel a thing because she was thinking of Krishna

"Why does your Krishna allow so much pain in your life?" the daasi's voice cracked on seeing her queen like this so she looked away

"No. Not a word against him. I would've been long dead if it weren't for him." Meera put a hand on her shoulder and smiled

"You should ask him to hold you with him forever, away from it all"

"Maharani!" A soldier came huffing and curtsied rigidly "Sincere apologies but they're on the horsebacks and can arrive any moment now."

Meera stood up hurriedly and collected her pooja samagri, dashing. But just at the gate, she stopped

"Does running away make me a coward?" She whispered

"No, maharani. You are going to your lord." the daasi said

"No no no wait! What about YOU ALL?" Meera's voice rose and suddenly an arrow whizzed past them

"DON'T worry about us, Maharani! Just GO PLEASE AAPKO SHRI KRISHN KI SAUGANDH!"

The soldier winced in pain as an arrow was shot again which lodged itself in his arm.

The daasi almost shrieked but carried him over and dragged him outside.

Meera saw a lover's spark between the two and despite the situation she smiled. She silently prayed to Krishna for their protection

And then she ran

She ran and ran and ran throughout the villages, the jungles, her feet and knees getting scraped, she went on for days without food or water and she ran

"I'm waiting, sakhi" a voice breathed in her ear

Finally she reached Dwarka and broke down at Dwarkadheesh's feet

A few days were spent in bliss as she became the poet she was meant to be

But not for long because they followed her even there

The time had come

She took a last, long breath in front of the murti

And closing her eyes, she folded her hands

"Swami. The world has never understood me. It has only given me agony until I met you. The only love I've ever felt is when I've thought of you. So I did. Until you became every thought of mine, written on every breath of mine. The only thing I've ever longed for is to be associated with you for as long as the kaal chakra goes on, my name be taken in the same breath as your name. But who am I? I'm not your lover who you'd playfully burst the maakhan matki of, I'm not your wife who you'd immediately, fiercely, desperately ride on your chariot to rescue. I'm not even a devotee like Hanuman ji who had the opportunity to be alive in the same yug to serve his God. Who am I to be yours? But where else am I to go? I can't survive in any place which isn't your heart.

The world has come to get me again so I come to you. And I won't breathe until I reach you"

She started walking to the murti, holding her hands out as alms

The tyrants were upon her now but suddenly they were dazzled by a bright light

And then a divine hand extended out to her, he smiled with tears streaming all the way as Meera immersed herself completely in Krishna

The light vanished. They opened their eyes again and were baffled to see Meera gone.

Except her dupatta that swayed peacefully from the side of the murti

Centuries later

"Mother! Whose is that?" a small voice pointed excitedly

The woman looked on and recognized Meerabai's dupatta

"The legendary poet bhakt of Krishna, child. Her name was Meerabai."

"Was she married to him?" curiosity sparked in her eyes

The woman thought for a bit. It wouldn't be that simple to explain to her little daughter the leelas of Shri Krishna with his many wives and lovers.

The girl looked at the murti now "Did they both love each other?"

"Yes" the woman answered, smiling

"Of course" her daughter nodded, completely satisfied "Just look at him! Who wouldn't fall in love with him?" as she laughed and swooned, swinging around a nearby pillar as Meerabai's dupatta swayed higher and touched the little girl's head

Meanwhile, Krishna grinned at the whole scene as Meera joined her, laying her head on his lap as she whispered

"It feels like I've waited for you since forever."

"I know, love. And I have, too. But I've been with you all the way. It broke my heart to see what they did to you." He kissed her forehead

"You are safe now" As he held on tight to her for eternity

Not just two lovers, but the union of two forms that go back to the same source to begin with. The river finally meeting the sea, the rain kissing the soil, incense embracing the ambience and far away just a besotted finally flying to the muse

Meera uniting with Krishna

[thisiwilldecidelater]

Meera Bai’s Seven Stages of Love:

1. Hub (Attraction)

I felt Your call, a gentle breeze,

Your name, a whisper through the trees.

My heart, a flame, began to glow,

In Your embrace, I long to go.

2. Uns (Infatuation)

My thoughts, they chase You day and night,

Your face, Your voice, my soul’s delight.

I cannot sleep, I cannot rest,

For in Your love, I feel possessed.

3. Ishq (Passionate Love)

In every prayer, in every sigh,

I call Your name, I wonder why

This love consumes me, makes me whole,

Your touch, the longing of my soul.

4. Aqeedat (Reverence)

I see You now as divine, above,

The perfect vision of pure love.

Your eyes, a depth, so vast, so clear,

In Your light, I disappear.

5. Ibadat (Devotion)

I bow to You, my heart a shrine,

My life is Yours, my soul, divine.

Each breath I take, each step I move,

I walk the path of Your love’s groove.

6. Junoon (Madness)

Your love is madness, wild and free,

It courses through my veins, You see.

I lose myself, I lose the world,

In You, I’m lost, I am unfurled.

7. Fana (Annihilation)

No Meera now, no self, no name,

Just You and I, a single flame.

I vanish, merge with You, my Lord,

In Your embrace, I’m evermore.

-Gauri.

[urdubooks24]

Online Treasure of Sufi and Sant Poetry

Introduction

Understanding the Essence of Sufi and Sant Poetry

Define Sufi Poetry

Define Sant Vani

Importance and relevance in modern times

Sufi/Sant Poetry: A Rich Heritage

Historical Background

Origins of Sufi Poetry

Development of Sant Vani

Famous Sufi Poets and Their Contributions

Bulleh Shah

Rumi

Amir Khusro

Renowned Sant Poets and Their Works

Kabir

Tulsidas

Guru Nanak

Sant Vani: The Spiritual Songs

Definition and Importance of Sant Vani

Connection with spirituality and daily life

Prominent Themes in Sant Vani

Love

Devotion

Humanity

Notable Compositions in Sant Vani

Kabir's Dohas

Guru Nanak's Bani

Tulsidas' Ramcharitmanas

Sufi Qawwalis: The Soulful Melodies

Origins and Evolution of Qawwali

Historical context and cultural significance

Famous Qawwals and Their Contributions

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan

Sabri Brothers

Abida Parveen

Impact of Qawwalis on Society

Influence on music and cinema

Role in spiritual gatherings

Sufi Kalam: The Divine Verses

Meaning and Importance of Sufi Kalam

Spiritual and philosophical insights

Key Figures in Sufi Kalam

Rumi

Hafez

Shah Hussain

Popular Sufi Kalam Collections

Mathnawi by Rumi

Diwan-e-Hafiz

Heer Ranjha by Waris Shah

E-Books: Accessing the Treasure

Availability of Sufi and Sant Poetry E-Books

Benefits of digital access

Top Online Platforms for Sufi and Sant E-Books

Sufinama

RekhtaBooks

Project Gutenberg

Recommended E-Books for Sufi and Sant Poetry

"The Essential Rumi" by Coleman Barks

"Songs of Kabir" by Rabindranath Tagore

"The Conference of the Birds" by Attar of Nishapur

Conclusion

The Continuing Relevance of Sufi and Sant Poetry

Modern interpretations and adaptations

Influence on contemporary literature and art

Exploring Further

How to engage with and study Sufi and Sant poetry

Online resources and communities

Example Content Sections:

Understanding the Essence of Sufi and Sant Poetry

Sufi and Sant poetry are two deeply spiritual and philosophical traditions that have enriched the cultural and literary heritage of South Asia and beyond. Sufi poetry, often associated with mysticism and the quest for divine love, is known for its profound depth and emotional resonance. Sant Vani, on the other hand, comprises the devotional songs of the Sant tradition, emphasizing ethical living, devotion to God, and social equality.

These poetic forms have not only provided spiritual solace to millions but have also acted as a medium for social reform, challenging rigid societal norms and advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate worldview.

Famous Sufi Poets and Their Contributions

Bulleh Shah Bulleh Shah is one of the most celebrated Sufi poets whose verses transcend the boundaries of time and culture. His poetry, written in Punjabi, is a testament to his profound spiritual journey and his quest for unity with the Divine. Bulleh Shah’s works, such as "Bulleya Ki Jaana Main Kaun," are timeless classics that continue to inspire and resonate with readers around the world.

Rumi Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, more commonly known as Rumi, is perhaps the most famous Sufi poet in the world. His works, written in Persian, have been translated into numerous languages and are widely read across the globe. Rumi’s poetry, encapsulated in his magnum opus "Masnavi," explores themes of divine love, the soul’s journey towards God, and the nature of existence.

Amir Khusro Amir Khusro, a prolific Persian poet and a disciple of Nizamuddin Auliya, made significant contributions to Sufi literature and music. He is often credited with the invention of several musical instruments and the development of new genres of poetry. His ghazals and qawwalis are integral to the Sufi musical tradition and continue to be performed with great reverence.

Prominent Themes in Sant Vani

Sant Vani, the poetic expressions of the Bhakti saints, often revolve around themes of love, devotion, and social justice. The Bhakti movement, which gave rise to Sant Vani, sought to transcend the barriers of caste and creed, promoting a direct and personal relationship with the Divine.

Love and Devotion The Bhakti saints, such as Kabir and Guru Nanak, emphasized the importance of love and devotion in their teachings. Kabir’s dohas (couplets) are renowned for their simplicity and profound wisdom, urging individuals to seek the Divine within themselves and to practice love and compassion in their daily lives.

Humanity and Social Equality The Bhakti poets often used their verses to challenge societal norms and advocate for social justice. Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, composed hymns that spoke against the caste system and gender discrimination, promoting the ideals of equality and universal brotherhood.

Famous Qawwals and Their Contributions

Qawwali, a form of Sufi devotional music, has a rich history and a profound impact on South Asian culture. This genre, characterized by its repetitive and hypnotic melodies, is designed to induce a state of spiritual ecstasy and divine connection.

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan is often hailed as the greatest qawwal of all time. His powerful voice and emotive renditions of Sufi poetry have captivated audiences worldwide. His contributions to qawwali music have not only preserved this ancient tradition but also brought it to the global stage, influencing musicians across various genres.

Sabri Brothers The Sabri Brothers, a legendary qawwali group from Pakistan, are known for their dynamic performances and soulful renditions of Sufi poetry. Their qawwalis, such as "Bhar Do Jholi Meri" and "Tajdar-e-Haram," are celebrated for their spiritual fervor and emotional depth.

Abida Parveen Abida Parveen, one of the most iconic female Sufi singers, has made significant contributions to the world of Sufi music. Her powerful and evocative voice has brought the poetry of Sufi saints to life, making her one of the most revered figures in the genre.

Recommended E-Books for Sufi and Sant Poetry

For those looking to delve deeper into the rich traditions of Sufi and Sant poetry, numerous e-books are available online. These digital collections provide a convenient way to explore the profound wisdom and spiritual insights of the Sufi and Bhakti poets.

"The Essential Rumi" by Coleman Barks This renowned translation of Rumi’s poetry by Coleman Barks captures the essence of Rumi’s mystical and spiritual insights. The book includes some of Rumi’s most famous poems, making it an essential read for anyone interested in Sufi literature.

"Songs of Kabir" by Rabindranath Tagore Rabindranath Tagore’s translation of Kabir’s dohas brings the profound wisdom of this Bhakti saint to a global audience. The book offers a selection of Kabir’s most insightful and thought-provoking verses, providing a glimpse into his spiritual teachings.

"The Conference of the Birds" by Attar of Nishapur This classic Persian poem, written by the Sufi poet Attar of Nishapur, is an allegorical journey of the soul towards enlightenment. The book, available in various translations, is a profound exploration of Sufi philosophy and spiritual quest.

[arjuna-vallabha]

Meerabai, marble sculpture