MIRA BAI

(MEERA BAI)

by David Courtney working tools


Mira

Mira was a queen of Rajasthan who is known more for her devotion than her political position.  There are so many stories about Mira Bai that it is very difficult to tell the facts of her life from legend.

She was born about 1500 and was married at the age of 13.  From an early age she showed more interest in religious devotions than to her worldly responsibilities.  It is said that she neglected her marital responsibilities.  When queried about it, she said that it was impossible for her to be married to the king when she was already married to Krishna.

A major change in her life occurred at the time of the death of her husband.  It was customary in those days for a wife to commit sattiSatti is the self immolation upon the husband's funeral pyre.  She refused to comply, whereupon her in-laws began harassing her.  She then left the palace and began wandering throughout Rajasthan, preaching and gaining followers.

Mira is known for the many bhajans that she left behind.  These bhajans are in praise of lord Krishna and held in great esteem for their high literary value.

She is believed to have died around 1550.

 


 

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For comments, corrections, and suggestions, kindly contact David Courtney at david@chandrakantha.com