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Draft:Ramdasi

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Ramdasi - Ramdasi Sampraday also known as Samarth Samparaday.[1] is a Hindu religious sect founded by Samarth Ramdas Swami[2], a 17th-century saint, philosopher, poet, and guru. The sect follows the teachings and philosophy of Samarth Ramdas Swami, who was a devout devotee of Lord Rama and Lord Hanuman.[3] The term "Ramdasi" refers to the followers of Samarth Ramdas Swami.

History[edit]

Samarth Ramdas Swami initiated the Ramdasi Sampraday in the 17th century[4]. He established the first monastery (math) and initiated his order (sampradaya) at Chafal, Maharashtra, in 1648 AD. Ramdas Swami installed an idol of Rama, named Ramchandra, which he found in the river Krishna. He also established 11 idols of Hanuman in different places, known as the 11 Maruti temples. The sect grew rapidly, with Samarth Ramdas Swami traveling across India[5], establishing temples, and initiating disciples into the order[6][7]

Teachings and Philosophy[edit]

The Ramdasi Sampraday is also known as the Samarth Sampraday, considering Samarth Ramdas Swami as the incarnation of Lord Hanuman[8]. The sect emphasizes devotion to Lord Rama, chanting of the Rama mantra, and the practice of yoga and meditation. It also promotes social reform, patriotism, and moral values. The teachings of Samarth Ramdas Swami are encapsulated in his works, including Dasbodh, Manache Shlok, Atmaram, and Ramdas Swami Bakhar.

Influence on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj[edit]

Samarth Ramdas Swami played a crucial role as the spiritual mentor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj[9], the founder of the Maratha Empire. He provided inspiration and support to Shivaji Maharaj in his struggle against the Mughal Empire and the Adilshahi Sultanate.

Legacy and Impact[edit]

The legacy of Samarth Ramdas Swami and the Ramdasi Sampraday is preserved through various temples, monasteries, and institutions dedicated to their teachings. The sect has millions of followers in India and abroad, celebrating various festivals and events related to Samarth Ramdas Swami and his works.

Manuscript Archives and Literary Contributions[edit]

The Ramdasi Sampraday has contributed significantly to South Asian literary historiography. The manuscript archives collected from various Ramdasi mathas provide insights into the devotional discipline of writing within the sect. The extensive corpus of Marathi poetry, including works by Varkaris, Ramdasis, and Panditi poets[10], reflects the multilingual and multiscriptual environments in which the sect operated.

Sajjangadh[edit]

Sajjangad, located in Satara District, is the capital of Ramdasi Sampraday[11]. It served as the final residence of Samarth Ramdas Swami, where he attained Mahasamadhi (death of the body while in a state of meditation) in 1682 AD[12]. The place continues to be a significant pilgrimage site for followers of the Ramdasi Sampraday.

Notable Personalities[edit]

Followers/Devotees of Samarth Ramdas[edit]

Prominent figures within the Ramdasi Sampraday include "Makarand buva Ramdasi[13]," "Mohan buva Ramdasi[14]," and "Maruti buva Ramdasi." These individuals, along with others like "Sameer buva Ramdasi" and "Ravidra buva Ramdasi," have played key roles in carrying forward the teachings and traditions of the sect.

References[edit]