Nivruttinath, also known as Nivritti or Nivrittinath, was born in 1273 CE as the eldest son of Vithala Pant and Rakhumabai. He grew up alongside his siblings, including Sant Jnaneshwar (Jnandev), Sopan, and Muktabai.
One significant event in Nivruttinath's life occurred when
his family encountered a tiger while passing through the forest near
Brahmagiri, close to Nashik. Amidst the chaos, Nivruttinath sought refuge in a
nearby cave where the yogi Gayaninath awaited him eagerly. It was here that
Nivruttinath received initiation into the secrets of yoga and atma jnana
(Self-knowledge) from Gayaninath.
Following his safe return home, Nivruttinath, as per his
guru's instructions, initiated his younger brother, Sant Dnyaneshwar, into the
spiritual path. Under Nivruttinath's guidance and inspiration, Sant Dnyaneshwar
delivered Marathi discourses on the Bhagavad Gita and penned the renowned book
Bhavarthadipika or Jnaneshwari. Additionally, Jnaneshwar composed
Amritanubhava under Nivruttinath's command, wherein he profoundly praised his
guru.
Nivruttinath was also a trailblazer in the composition of
Marathi abhangas, reflecting his philosophical stance that desire is the
fundamental cause of human bondage. He believed that only through the knowledge
of the atman, which could be attained through the grace of the guru, could this
bondage be eradicated.
Through his life and teachings, Nivruttinath left an
indelible mark on the spiritual landscape of Maharashtra, inspiring generations
with his wisdom and devotion.
Nivruttinath attained samadhi in 1297 CE.