Dayaram, a revered Bhakti saint and ardent devotee of Bhagavan Sri Krishna, was born in 1777 CE in Chandod, a picturesque town on the banks of the Narmada River in South Gujarat. His early life was deeply influenced by his parents, who were devout worshippers of Krishna. Tragically, they passed away during his childhood, leading to his upbringing by his maternal grandparents. This formative period was crucial in shaping his spiritual and literary inclinations.
Literary Contributions
Dayaram is a seminal figure in Gujarati literature, renowned
for his contributions to the Bhakti movement. He is particularly celebrated for
the "garbi," a lyrical form of song that combines devotion and
musicality. His garbis are an integral part of Gujarat's cultural heritage,
often performed during Navratri and other festivals, invoking the divine
presence of Krishna through their enchanting melodies and profound lyrics.
Association with Pushtimarg
Dayaram was a devoted follower of Pushtimarg, a sect of
Hindu Vaishnavism founded by Vallabhacharya. This sect emphasizes unconditional
devotion to Krishna, and Dayaram's affiliation with it profoundly influenced
his spiritual practice and literary output. A pivotal moment in his spiritual
journey was meeting Icchashankara, a distinguished follower of Pushtimarg, at
Dakor, a prominent pilgrimage site in Gujarat. This encounter deepened his
devotion and commitment to the teachings of Vallabhacharya, enriching his
worship and literary endeavors.
Pilgrimages and Writings
Driven by his deep devotion, Dayaram embarked on extensive
pilgrimages across India, visiting places of significance related to Krishna,
most notably Nathdwara. These travels were not only spiritual sojourns but also
inspired his literary works. He penned numerous books elucidating the
principles of Pushtimarg, including "Rasika Vallabha" and "Bhakti
Poshana" in Gujarati, and "Rasika Ranjana" and
"Bhakti Ranjana" in Braj Bhasha. His writings often explored themes
from Krishna’s life, blending narrative poetry with devotional fervor.
Multilingual Mastery
Dayaram’s literary prowess extended beyond Gujarati; he was
a polyglot who composed works in multiple languages. His oeuvre includes 64
works in Gujarati, 20 in Braj Bhasha, one in Marathi, and one in Sanskrit.
Additionally, he wrote miscellaneous poems in Punjabi, Marwari, Sindhi, and
Urdu, showcasing his linguistic versatility and broad cultural engagement.
Legacy
Dayaram passed away in 1853 CE, leaving behind a rich legacy
that continues to inspire devotees and scholars alike. His contributions,
alongside those of contemporaries like Narsinh Mehta and Meera, are pivotal to
the Bhakti movement in Gujarati literature. Dayaram's works are not only
literary treasures but also spiritual guides that reflect the profound
devotional traditions of his time.
In summary, Dayaram's life and works epitomize the essence
of Bhakti—unwavering devotion, cultural enrichment, and the seamless blending
of spirituality with literature. His enduring legacy as a Bhakti saint and
literary genius remains a cornerstone of Gujarati cultural and spiritual
heritage.