Morya Gosavi

Morgaon

Tukaram by Raja Ravi Varma

Morya Gosavi is considered one of the greatest devotees of Lord Ganesha and a prominent saint in the Hindu tradition, particularly within the Ganapatya sect, which considers Ganesha as the Supreme Being. Morya Gosavi's devotion and the miracles associated with him have significantly contributed to the spread of the Ganapatya sect and the popularization of Ganesha worship in Maharashtra, India.

Life

The exact dates of Morya Gosavi's life are not clearly documented, but he is believed to have lived between the 13th and 17th centuries in what is now the state of Maharashtra. He was born into a Brahmin family and showed an inclination towards spiritual and religious practices from a young age. Morya Gosavi is particularly revered in the town of Chinchwad, near Pune, where he spent a significant part of his life in devotion to Lord Ganesha.

Devotion to Lord Ganesha

Morya Gosavi's devotion to Lord Ganesha is legendary. He is said to have performed severe penances and undertook rigorous spiritual practices to please Ganesha. His unwavering faith and devotion are believed to have led to several divine experiences and miracles, further strengthening his and others' faith in Lord Ganesha. One of the most famous legends associated with Morya Gosavi is his receiving of the darshan (divine vision) of Lord Ganesha after intense penance. This event is celebrated in Chinchwad and other parts of Maharashtra with great fervor.

Legacy

Morya Gosavi's legacy is a significant part of the cultural and religious fabric of Maharashtra. He is credited with establishing several temples dedicated to Lord Ganesha, with the Chinchwad temple being the most famous among them. His life and teachings continue to inspire devotees of Ganesha across India and beyond.

The phrase "Ganpati Bappa Morya," commonly chanted during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival, is believed to have been derived from Morya Gosavi's name, signifying a call to Lord Ganesha using Morya Gosavi's name as a mark of respect and devotion. This chant encapsulates the deep spiritual connection between Morya Gosavi and Lord Ganesha and is a testament to Morya Gosavi's enduring legacy in the Ganapatya tradition and Hinduism at large.

In Popular Culture

Morya Gosavi's life and devotion have been depicted in various forms of art, literature, and media in India, further immortalizing his contributions to Hindu spirituality and culture.

See Also

• Ganesh Chaturthi
• Ganapatya
• Hindu Saints