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Nivruttinath – A Short Biography

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.