Mahanubhava

Mahanubhava is a religious sect that originated in the 13th century in the region that is today's Maharashtra, India. Founded by Chakradhar Swami, it emphasizes devotion (Bhakti) to Krishna as the supreme god and promotes a life of simplicity, honesty, and equality. The Mahanubhava sect, also known as the Mahanubhava Panth, has made significant contributions to Marathi culture and literature.

History

The Mahanubhava sect was founded during a period of great social and religious transformation in India. Chakradhar Swami, born in 1194, is considered the principal prophet and teacher of the Mahanubhava. He preached the worship of Krishna and advocated for a casteless society, challenging the prevailing social norms of the time. The teachings of Chakradhar Swami attracted followers from various social backgrounds, including those marginalized by the caste system.

Beliefs and Practices

The core beliefs of the Mahanubhava sect center around the worship of Krishna, whom they consider the ultimate reality and supreme deity. The sect teaches that devotion to Krishna, through chanting his name and meditating on his form, leads to salvation. The Mahanubhava literature, including the Leela Charitra, which is one of the earliest Marathi biographies, emphasizes the importance of a guru in guiding the devotee on the spiritual path.

Mahanubhava followers adhere to a strict vegetarian diet and lead a simple life, avoiding material excess and societal ostentation. They are known for their unique practice of not celebrating any festivals, including the popular Hindu festivals, as they believe every day is equally sacred for remembering and worshipping Krishna.

Literature

The Mahanubhava sect has contributed significantly to Marathi literature, with texts that are considered among the earliest in the Marathi language. The Leela Charitra is the most famous, detailing the life of Krishna and the teachings of Chakradhar Swami. Other important texts include the Suta-Samhita, Shravana-Kirtana, and the writings of other Mahanubhava saints, which focus on devotion, moral conduct, and the critique of ritualism.

Impact and Legacy

The Mahanubhava sect's emphasis on a personal connection with the divine, disregard for caste distinctions, and its contributions to Marathi literature have left a lasting impact on the cultural and religious landscape of Maharashtra. Despite facing persecution and opposition from established religious authorities, the Mahanubhava community has preserved its unique identity and practices to this day.

The sect's teachings on equality and devotion continue to inspire followers and have contributed to the broader Bhakti movement in India, which seeks to promote a direct and personal relationship with the divine, beyond the confines of caste and ritual.

See Also

• Bhakti movement
• Krishna
• Marathi literature