Mirabai

Biography

Mirabai, also known as Meera, was one of the most beloved Bhakti poets and mystics of India. She is remembered for her deep devotion to Lord Krishna, her soulful poetry, and her fearless defiance of social norms. Her songs of love and surrender continue to inspire spiritual seekers and lovers of poetry across generations.

🌿 Early Life and Background

Mirabai was born around 1498 CE in Kudki, near Merta, in present-day Rajasthan, into a royal Rajput family. From a very young age, she showed an intense spiritual inclination and considered Krishna to be her divine husband.

She was married to Prince Bhoj Raj, the son of Rana Sanga of Mewar, but her heart remained devoted solely to Krishna. After her husband’s death, Mirabai faced opposition from her family for her devotion, which they saw as unbecoming of a royal woman. Despite persecution and hardship, she remained steadfast in her faith.

✍️ Poetry and Devotion

Mirabai’s poetry expresses her unconditional love and devotion (bhakti) for Lord Krishna. Her songs are filled with longing, joy, pain, and surrender, portraying the divine as her eternal lover and companion.

She wrote in Rajasthani and Braj Bhasha, making her verses accessible to ordinary people. Her poems are both personal and universal, blending human love with spiritual yearning.

Famous Themes and Works:

Devotion and union with Krishna

The soul’s longing for divine love

Rejection of worldly attachments and social constraints

Faith, courage, and inner freedom

Some of her famous poems include:

“Payo Ji Maine Ram Ratan Dhan Payo”

“Mere To Giridhar Gopal, Doosro Na Koi”

“Jo Tum Todo Piya, Main Nahi Todu”

🌺 Spiritual Path and Influence

Mirabai became a symbol of spiritual devotion, courage, and defiance. She traveled widely, singing her bhajans and spreading the message of divine love. Her poetry reflects the ideals of the Bhakti Movement, which emphasized devotion over ritual and equality beyond caste or gender.

Her life challenged patriarchal and caste-based norms, as she chose God over family honor and spiritual freedom over royal luxury.

🕊️ Legacy

Mirabai is revered as one of the greatest saints of the Bhakti era, alongside figures like Kabir, Surdas, and Tulsidas. Her songs remain popular in devotional music traditions across India and have been translated into many languages.

She is remembered not only as a poet of love and faith but also as a symbol of spiritual strength, independence, and feminine power.

🌼 Conclusion

Mirabai’s life and poetry remind us that true devotion transcends all barriers — of status, gender, and society. Through her heartfelt songs to Krishna, she continues to embody the timeless message of divine love, surrender, and spiritual freedom.