Sant Tulsidas – The Eternal Poet of Devotion

In the lineage of Bhakti Yoga, few figures shine as brightly as Sant Tulsidas (1532–1623). Known as the immortal poet of devotion to Lord Rama, Tulsidas gave India one of its greatest spiritual treasures—the Ramcharitmanas. His life and works are a living testimony to the power of Bhakti, where poetry, surrender, and faith merge into a river of divine love.

Through his verses, Tulsidas bridged the gap between divine ideals and human hearts, reminding seekers that God is not distant but present in every breath of devotion.

Early Life of Tulsidas

Born in Rajapur, Uttar Pradesh, during an era of political instability and spiritual unrest, Tulsidas entered the world under extraordinary circumstances. Legends say he was born with 32 teeth, appearing like a grown child, and abandoned at birth due to superstitions.

He was later raised by saints and guided by his guru Narharidas, who instilled in him the love of Lord Rama. Unlike many scholars of his time who wrote only in Sanskrit, Tulsidas chose Awadhi, the language of the people. This decision democratized devotion, allowing common men and women to experience the sweetness of Rama Bhakti.

Ramcharitmanas – The Song of Bhakti

The Ramcharitmanas remains Tulsidas’ magnum opus—a devotional retelling of Valmiki’s Ramayana in Awadhi. It is not just a scripture but a living river of devotion, where every verse reflects the fragrance of faith and surrender.

• Rama is portrayed not only as a king but as the eternal protector of dharma and the compassionate Lord of devotees.
• The language is lyrical and musical, making the text a favorite for bhajans, kirtans, and storytelling traditions.
• For over four centuries, the Ramcharitmanas has been read in homes, recited in satsangs, and sung in temples across India.

Tulsidas transformed Rama from a distant divine figure into a personal, loving companion of the soul.

Teachings of Sant Tulsidas

Sant Tulsidas was not only a poet but also a profound philosopher of Bhakti. His teachings emphasize that true devotion is free from ego, ritualistic pride, or intellectual vanity.

His philosophy can be summarized in three eternal principles:

• Love for the Divine: Rama is not just an avatar but the eternal companion of every soul.
• Equality in Bhakti: Devotion is open to all, transcending caste, creed, or gender.
• Satsang and Service: Singing the name of God, serving humanity, and keeping the company of saints is the highest yoga.

For Tulsidas, chanting “Ram Naam” was not just prayer—it was a direct bridge to liberation.

Influence on Bhakti Yoga

Sant Tulsidas’ contribution to Bhakti Yoga was revolutionary. By choosing the language of the masses, he brought spirituality out of scholarly circles and into people’s homes. His verses not only deepened devotion but also strengthened social harmony, offering hope during times of turmoil.

His works inspired countless saints, poets, and devotees. Even today, during Ram Leela festivals, satsangs, and daily prayers, the words of Tulsidas remain alive, reminding seekers that Bhakti is the most direct path to God.

Other Works of Tulsidas

Apart from the Ramcharitmanas, Sant Tulsidas authored several other devotional texts, each carrying the fragrance of Bhakti:

• Hanuman Chalisa – The most widely recited hymn to Lord Hanuman, filled with strength and surrender.
• Vinay Patrika – A heartfelt collection of prayers to Lord Rama.
• Kavitavali and Dohavali – Collections of poems that combine wisdom, simplicity, and deep devotion.

Through these writings, Tulsidas showed that Bhakti can be expressed through song, poetry, and heartfelt prayer.

Tulsidas and Mimamsa Yoga School Rishikesh

At Mimamsa Yoga School Rishikesh, we honor Sant Tulsidas as a guiding light of Bhakti Yoga. His works inspire our Bhakti practices, which include:

• Kirtans and Bhajans based on verses from Ramcharitmanas and Hanuman Chalisa.
• Mantra Chanting to invoke the spirit of devotion.
• Satsang and Storytelling that bring alive the legacy of Tulsidas for modern seekers.

By connecting with his poetry, students experience that Bhakti is not just a practice but a way of life.

Conclusion

Sant Tulsidas remains one of the greatest voices of Bhakti Yoga—a saint who transformed devotion into poetry and made divine love accessible to every household. His life teaches us that the path of Bhakti is not bound by scholarship or ritual, but by the simplicity of a heart filled with love.

At Mimamsa Yoga School Rishikesh, we continue his legacy, guiding seekers on the timeless path of Bhakti and keeping alive the flame of Rama Bhakti that Tulsidas so beautifully nurtured.