The name “Namdev” has a spiritual fragrance that is so widespread that many saints, devotees, and seekers across India are known by this name. Among them, one of the most revered is Saint Namdev of Maharashtra, who was a contemporary of Saint Dnyaneshwar. Maharashtra’s sacred land has given the spiritual world five major saints, known as the Sant Panchayatana:
- Saint Dnyaneshwar
- Saint Namdev
- Saint Eknath
- Saint Samarth Ramdas
- Saint Tukaram
The spiritual teachings of these saints have flowed like a stream through the community of saints. Among them, Saint Namdev’s teachings are as pure as the holy river Ganga, where seekers still bathe spiritually.
Namdev’s Recognition
Saint Namdev’s name was highly respected by other saints like Kabir and Ravidas. Ravidas praised him in his verses:
“Namdev, Kabir, Tilochan, Sadhana, and Sain crossed the ocean of existence.”
Kabir was also influenced by Namdev.
Early Life
Saint Namdev was born in 1270 AD in Narsi Bamani, a village situated on the banks of the Krishna River in Satara district, Maharashtra. His father, Dama Sheth, was a tailor by profession, and his mother, Gonabai, also came from a family of tailors. Both parents were devoted worshippers of Lord Shiva, and Namdev was greatly influenced by their devotion from an early age.
Childhood and Spiritual Inclination
At the age of five, Namdev’s education began, but he showed little interest in studies. His father then tried to involve him in the family tailoring business, but Namdev remained uninterested. Even when he tried trading, he would lose the initial investment. Namdev’s heart was drawn only to the company of saints and spiritual gatherings.
Divine Experience
One story from his childhood tells how, in his father’s absence, Namdev offered a bowl of milk to a deity. When the statue did not drink the milk, he began to cry, thinking his offering was rejected because he was just a child. Miraculously, the deity drank the milk, strengthening Namdev’s faith and devotion.
Spiritual Journey and Guru
Namdev was deeply committed to finding a guru. After a period of seeking, he found his guru in Visoba Khechar, who guided him on the spiritual path. There are differing opinions about his guru; some say it was Saint Dnyaneshwar, but according to tradition, Visoba Khechar was his true mentor.
Travels and Pilgrimage
Namdev traveled widely with his friend Saint Dnyaneshwar, visiting holy places and meeting other saints like Chokhamela. On one of these journeys, they even encountered the Sultan of Delhi, Muhammad bin Tughlaq, who tried to punish Namdev but failed. Namdev and the group eventually returned to Pandharpur, the spiritual hub.
Later Life
After Saint Dnyaneshwar’s death, Namdev began to feel detached from southern India and traveled north again. Accompanied by disciples, he settled by a pond in Ghuman, Punjab, where people gathered around him. The pond later became known as Namiana, and a village grew up around it.
Passing and Legacy
Namdev passed away in 1350 AD at the age of 80. Some believe he died at the Vitthal temple steps in Pandharpur. Namdev’s followers established the Namdev sect, and his devotional songs are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, indicating his influence on Sikhism as well.
Namdev’s Philosophy and Teachings
Namdev focused on Naam Sadhana (chanting the name of God) and believed that spiritual practice is possible only through the grace of a guru. He often referred to the Divine as “Vitthal” and expressed that wherever he looked, he saw only God.
Literary Contributions
Namdev composed numerous devotional songs in both Marathi and Hindi. His works reflect a blend of Nirguna (formless worship) and Saguna (worship of a personal deity). His songs often emphasized the omnipresence of God and the importance of constant remembrance.
Multiple Namdevs
There were other saints named Namdev in history, which sometimes causes confusion. The most famous one was from Maharashtra (1270–1350), while another Namdev hailed from Marwar and was contemporaneous with Sikandar Lodi.
Final Thoughts
Despite the passing of centuries, Saint Namdev’s teachings continue to inspire devotees, and his name lives on in the spiritual traditions of India.
