Sevalal Maharaj
| Sevalal Maharaj | |
|---|---|
| Born |
15 February 1739 Sirsi, Uttara Kannada, British India (now In Karnataka, India) |
| Died |
4 December 1806 (aged 67) India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Title | Banjara Community Upliftment |
Sant Satguru Sri Sevalal Maharaj or Sevalal or Sevabhaya (born 15 February 1739 - 4 December 1806) is the most important saint of the Banjaras.[1] He is spiritual leader of Banjara community who was instrumental in bringing several reforms and worked hard for the upliftment of Banjaras.
Life
According to Banjara accounts he was born on 15 February 1739 in Sirsi, Karnataka, to Bhima Naik and Dharmini Bai.
A cattle merchant by profession he is said to have been a man of exemplary truthfulness, a great musician, a courageous warrior, a rationalist who fought against superstition and a devotee of Goddess Jagadamba.[2]
The colonial British administrators also quote his stories but they place him in the 19th century and identify his original name as Siva Rathod.[3]
Folk songs
There are folk songs praising Sevalal Maharaj which are very popular during banjara festivities.
Death
He died on 4 December 1806.
Temple of Sewalal Maharaj
Very popular and spiritual temple of Sant Shree Sewalal Maharaj is situated in villege "Pohora Devi" which is situated in the washim district. All Banjara devotee regularly visit this temple. Also the goddess "Jagadamba Mata" temple which well known as "Jagdamba Yadi Mandir" is situated in the same place.
References
- ↑ http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Hyderabad/sevalal-maharajs-birth-anniversary-celebrated/article22764082.ece
- ↑ Naik, Lalitha (2009). Banjara Hejjegurutugalu. Bangalore: Karnataka Rajya Patragara Ilakhe. pp. 42–84. ISBN 978-8190843812.
- ↑ S. G. Deogaonkar and Shailaja S. Deogaonkar, p.43