Tukaram Jayanti is celebrated on the second day of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Phalguna, which usually falls in February or March. The day commemorates the teachings and the spiritual legacy of Sant Tukaram. His poetry and songs emphasize devotion, humility, and the importance of a simple, pious life dedicated to the service of God.
The Life of Tuka Ram
Tuka Ram was born in Dehu village of Pune in Maharashtra in 1608. Having set his sights on attaining Moksha, the revered saint has begun worshiping at a very young age. Though the exact residence of Tuka Ram is not clear, it is highly anticipated that he used to live close to Lord Vithoba Temple.Tuka Ram belonged to a Kshatriya family. He was a businessman but could not succeed due to severe and consistent losses. Unable to cope with the hardships he chose the path of salvation after Lord Vithoba showed him the way in one of his dreams.
Contribution to Marathi Literature
Saint Tuka Ram is identified synonymously with the Marathi literature because of the immense contributions he made perfectly. Perhaps, he used to display his tremendous control over the Marathi literature that no one else could for sure in the past.Dedicating all his poems and hymns to Lord Vithoba, they all were filled with love and respect to the God. Such was his influence that some of his poems were included in Guru Granth Sahib as well. Even after achieving phenomenal success in life, he refused to wear costly clothes and jewelry. He believed in simplicity and abided by it.
Saint Tuka Ram Jayanti is observed not just in Maharashtra alone but all over India with due respect to the eminent personality of literature. Several movies and stories have been created based exclusively on the life of Tuka Ram as a mark of respect to the Lord Vithoba devotee. Throughout his life in the past and present as long as he breathed his last, Tuka Ram maintained a simple life by sacrificing all the worldly luxuries perfectly.
Sant Tukaram is considered as a legend in modern Marathi literature. Several books have been written by eminent personalities describing the services he offered to the Marathi literature. The saint himself was a great admirer of Pandharpur.
Eventually, Tuka Ram became successful in instilling his theory among people and his followers that God lies in simplicity alone and not in luxury and other things. Perhaps, this is the reason why numerous saints and seers consider Sant Tuka Ram as the perfect inspiration for the
Rituals and Celebrations:
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- Kirtans and Bhajans: Devotional songs and hymns composed by Sant Tukaram are sung in temples and homes.
- Processions: Many places organize processions carrying images of Sant Tukaram, accompanied by singing and dancing devotees.
- Reading Abhangas: Followers read and recite Tukaram's Abhangas, reflecting on his messages and teachings.
- Special Pujas: Temples dedicated to Sant Tukaram, particularly the Tukaram Temple in Dehu, Pune, conduct special pujas and rituals.
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Cultural Programs: Various cultural programs, including plays, music performances, and lectures, are organized to honor Sant Tukaram's contributions to literature and spirituality.
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Varkari Pilgrimage: Devotees from the Varkari sect, who follow the teachings of Sant Tukaram and other saints like Dnyaneshwar, participate in a pilgrimage, visiting holy places associated with these saints.
इस आर्टिकल को हिंदी में पढ़ने के लिए यहां क्लिक करें