Page 33 - Elixir_2025_26

10. Teachings of Saints
Swaraang Mahesh Kulawade (9C)
Since ancient times, saints have played a vital role in
bringing about social renaissance. They have acted as true
reformers of society, guiding people towards righteousness,
equality, and spiritual awakening. Maharashtra, in particular,
has a glorious legacy of saints who lived, worked, and
transformed society through their noble thoughts. Saints like
SantDnyaneshwar, SantTukaram, SantNamdev, and
JagadguruEknath enriched the spiritual and cultural heritage of
Maharashtra.
Saints expressed their teachings and philosophy through
Abhangas—poetic expressions filled with divine thoughts. These
Abhangas reflect the soul of their composers. While many are
devotional, some also strongly criticize the evils and destructive
practices present in society, such as superstition and caste
discrimination.
SantTukaram, in his famous Abhanga
“ऐसे कै से झाले भोांदु ।
कमम करोशि म्हणशत साधु ।
अांगा लावूशिया राख ।
डोळे झाकु ि कराते पाप।”
condemns blind faith and hypocrisy. He questions how people
become so superstitious and how such pretenders, who deceive
innocent people, claim to be saints. These false saints mislead
people by applying ash on their bodies and performing tricks,
while their intentions remain cunning and materialistic.
Works like ‘Dnyaneshwari’ and ‘TukaramGatha’ are
treasures of Marathi literature. They serve as guiding lamps for
living a spiritual, meaningful, and detached life. ‘Pasaydan,’ the
concluding prayer of Dnyaneshwari, is a heartfelt wish for the
enlightenment of all beings. Through such writings, saints fought
against discrimination and uplifted society. Their compositions
mirror our rich cultural traditions and literary glory.
SantDnyaneshwar, one of the greatest saints of
Maharashtra, authored Dnyaneshwari, Amrutanubhava, and
Bhavarth Deepika. He established the Varkari tradition and
inspired generations through his life. Despite being banished
from their village, he and his siblings overcame immense
hardships. His life teaches us resilience, courage, and devotion in
the face of adversity.
SantGorakumbhar is a shining example of someone who
rose above caste-based restrictions. Although he was barred
from receiving education and even from entering the temple, he
continued his devotion to Lord Vitthal with determination. He
taught people that all human beings are equal and that casteism
is a grave social sin.