Swami Ramdas and Nanded's Bhakti Heritage

Nanded district is historically significant as the region where Swami Ramdas (1608-1681), saint-poet and spiritual mentor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, lived and taught. Swami Ramdas composed the Dasbodha, a comprehensive philosophical and practical guide in Marathi verse addressing spiritual, ethical, and political governance, which remains a living scripture in Maharashtra. His philosophy of practical spirituality (vyavaharik adhyatma) and active engagement with social life inspired Maharashtra's saint tradition. The Sajjangad Fort in Satara, where Swami Ramdas spent his final years, is a major pilgrimage site. In Nanded, the Swami Ramdas Math maintains the tradition of teaching Dasbodha and performing kirtans in the saint's tradition. The saint's birthday (Shri Ramdas Navami) is celebrated with kirtans and philosophical discourses attended by thousands across Maharashtra.