Overview and Significance
Rang Avadhoot, born Pandurang Vitthalapanta Valame, (21 November 1898 – 19 November 1968), was a saint-poet belonging to the Dattatreya Tradition. He is credited with expanding the Datta Tradition in the Gujarat state of India, writing more than forty-five works, including numerous hymns and songs concerning spirituality and devotion.
He was born on 21 November 1898 at Godhra to Vitthalpant and Rukmini. He always had an interest in spirituality since his childhood. He matriculated and left his studies due to participation in Gandhi’s resistance movement. He served as a teacher for a brief period and was involved in social activities. He left his job and began to live the life of a renunciate from 1923. He moved to Nareshwar on the bank of the Narmada river. Vasudevanand Saraswati [Tembe Swami] was his Guru.
He died on 19 November 1968 (Kartika Vad 30) at Haridwar (now in Uttarakhand, India) on the bank of the Ganga river. His body was brought to Nareshwar and cremated two days later, on 21 November.
His followers worship him as an incarnation of Dattatreya. His ashram (hermitage) is located at Nareshwar, Gujarat.
Life History
Birth and Childhood:
On November 21, 1898, Shrimati Rukminidevi gave birth to a boy. They named him Pandurang. His full name was Pandurang Vitthala Valame. Pandurang became the great saint Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj. Since childhood Pandurang Valame was unusual. A fatal disease started spreading at that time in Godhara, and many people were dying. Little Pandurang saw this and asked his father, ‘Does everyone have to die?‘ Father said, ‘Yes.’ The boy continued, ‘After death, what happens?‘ The father said, ‘People are born again.’ Pandurang asked, ‘Can we avoid this chain of birth and death?‘ The father said, ‘Yes, my son. By repeating the name of Lord Rama one can get out of this cycle.’ This conversation left a deep impression on the mind of Pandurang. From that day on, whenever he found time, he would sit in a corner of his house and repeat Lord Rama’s name.
When Pandurang was three years, his baby brother was born. His name was Narayana. When Pandurang was five years old, a natural calamity came. An outbreak of plague covered Godhara and surrounding areas. Unfortunately, Mr. Vitthala Pant became a victim and did not survive. For mother Rukmini to survive in Godhara with two little children away from relatives was a big challenge. She was shaken up. But, she kept her composure and, with great courage, continued to raise children in the best possible way. Sometimes there were no vegetables in the house to eat, but Pandurang said, ‘Mother, do not worry. We will eat without vegetables. You need not have to ask for them from anyone.‘ Thus, the children managed with what little they had.
Courage:
Pandurang was very courageous and filled with inner strength. Once, a bully started threatening Pandurang’s friend Hariprasad. One day, the bully and his friends decided to beat Hariprasad. Pandurang asked Hariprasad if he had any weapon at home to fight with them. He found a wooden sword. When the bully and his friends came to beat Hariprasad, Pandurang started swinging the wooden sword and, with a roaring voice, said, ‘Come forward whoever wants to touch Hariprasad! I will take care of them.‘ No one came forward, and the friends of the bully were impressed with Pandurang. The bully ran away.
Once, a British Principal, Mr. Robertson, was conducting the individual oral exam of students in Pandurang’s school. Seeing Pandurang with a shaven head, ‘tilak’ on his forehead, and simple traditional attire, Mr. Robertson smiled and asked Pandurang why he was wearing a funny dress. Pandurang said he could answer the question in two ways: one was to give a direct answer, the other with a counter-question. He asked Mr. Robertson for his preference. Mr. Robertson thought that the boy was smart. Continuing smiling, he said whichever way he wanted. Pandurang asked him why he was wearing a noose on his neck (meaning a tie). Mr. Robertson said that it was a symbol of his religion. It reminded him of the cross. Pandurang explained that in the same way, his shaven head and tilak remind him of God. He added that India was a poor country, and it was expensive to get a haircut. Mr. Robertson was pleased by Pandurang’s courage, self-confidence, and compelling articulation of his thoughts. He gave Pandurang the highest score on the exam.
Love for his Mother & Rang Jayanti:
Shri Rang Avadhootji’s younger brother Narayana was caring for their mother in Mumba, but Narayana became very sick. So, Shri Avadhootji brought his mother and Narayana to Nareshwar. Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj realised that Narayana was worrying about their mother’s well-being in the event that Narayana died. Shri Rang Avadhootji told Narayana that he should not worry about their mother. He assured Narayana that to take care of their mother if he had to work and earn money, he would do it. With this assurance, Narayana peacefully passed away. Mother Rukmamba cried profusely at the demise of her son Narayana. Shri Rang Avadhootji took good care of their mother. Mother Rukmamba’s grief slowly subsided, and she started getting acquainted with Nareshwar.
Every day Shri Rang Avadhootji made sure that his mother was doing well. Whenever he went out of town, he asked his mother’s permission. If he was away and found that his mother was not feeling well, he would return to Nareshwar immediately. He chose to travel to places close to Nareshwar. People who came to pay respects to Shri Rang Avadhootji also paid respects to his mother Rukmamba. They found out from her the exact birthdate of Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj. Then, with the support of Rukmamba, people received permission from Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj to celebrate his birthday as ‘Rang Jayanti.’ That way, the ‘Rang Jayanti Celebration’ started.
Shri Rang Avadhootji’s 60th birthday was celebrated in Nareshwar in the presence of his mother. About 100,000 people gathered at Nareshwar to celebrate this special birthday. During Rang Jayanti Celebrations, Shri Rang Avadhootji gave lectures at various places. All these lectures were compiled in a book called ‘Amar Adesh.’ Mother Rukmamba lived happily at Nareshwar until her last breath.
Shri Rang Avadhootji in Africa:
A devotee had invited Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj to visit Africa. However, since Shri Avadhootji wanted to be around his mother, he could not accept that invitation. After his mother passed away, when the devotee requested his visit to Africa again, Shri Rang Avadhootji could not deny the invitation. In Africa, Shri Datta Jayanti was celebrated in his presence, and Shri Avadhootji himself led a few bhajans and dhoons.
The Zambia Times reporter was very impressed by Shri Avadhootji’s presence. He felt as if a Messiah had come to visit Africa. An African lady who was planning to visit India met Shri Avadhootji and told him that she was scared to visit India. Shri Avadhootji gave her his picture and told her that she needed not to worry because God would be with her in India. The lady said that she had not seen God. Shri Avadhootji replied that he had seen God, so not to worry. This assured her, and she overcame her fear. One British person saw St. Paul in Shri Avadhootji, and another British man requested Shri Avadhootji to touch his handkerchief and bless it so that he could take it back home to his family members for them to touch the kerchief and be blessed. Shri Avadhootji kindly fulfilled that request.
Shri Rang Avadhootji enjoyed the Victoria Falls of Africa. The fall reminded him of the holy river Ganga emerging out of Lord Shiva’s head. He wrote a Sanskrit hymn describing this experience.
In Africa, Shri Avadhootji gave a lecture to a group of students. To motivate the students to achieve something in life, Shri Avadhootji told them that if a person at young age did not acquire knowledge, did not earn money as an adult, and did not do any good work, then what was the purpose of his/her life. He advised the students to put in a lot of effort in studying and building up a strong academic foundation. Shri Avadhootji then led one of his songs which said, ‘O Beloved God! Let a day come when I see you everywhere.’ Students sang after him. Then, he asked everyone to meditate for a couple of minutes. It was a very inspiring occasion.
Shri Rang Avadhootji travelled in five states of Africa and then returned to India. He was pleased with this trip. Some some of this trip can be seen here.
Final Days:
In July and August 1968, Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj first stayed at Kujarav and later at Vallabh Vidyanagar. There he met Shri Ravishankar Maharj, Rev. Shri Mota, Bhaikaka, Shri H. M. Patel and others. In Vadodara he delivered a lecture in Sanskrit. After a few days, someone requested him for the script of his Sanskrit lecture. He had gotten rid of the script, but at the person’s request, he wrote down the whole lecture word for word from his memory. People were amazed by his mental capacity. He visited several places in Gujarat, and at Kapadvanj he told his devotees that Kapadvanj was his last station. Indeed it was his last station in Gujarat.
Shri Rang Avadhootji then went to Jaipur, where devotees celebrated Rang Jayanti in his presence. He blessed everyone and encouraged them to do Japa Yoga to experience divine bliss within and to become free from all bondages. From Jaipur, he went to Haradwar. Someone asked him when he would return from Haradwar. Shri Avadhootji replied that anyone who had gone to Haradwar never returned back. On November 19, 1968 he repeated Om three times and left his body in Haradwar. On his birthday, November 21, 1968, his body was cremated in Nareshwar.
Tradition and Gurus
Surrender to Guru:
When Rang Avadhoot and his broher were children, mother Rukmini took them to Devale for their sacred thread ceremony. After the ceremony they went to a place of pilgrimage called Narasoba Vadi on the bank of river Krishna. At that time, the famous saint Shri Vasudevananda Saraswati, also known as Tembe Swami, was visiting the place. As soon as the eight-year-old Pandurang saw him, he ran and fell at his feet. Shri Vasudevanandaji asked whose boy it was. Pandurang immediately said, ‘Yours.’ Thus, little Pandurang found his Guru and surrendered himself to him. Later on Shri Rang Avadhoot used to say, ‘After surrendering my head to my Guru on that day, I have never raised my head with ego. I became headless (meaning ego-less).’
Teachings
After receiving his degree from Gujarat Vidyapith, Pandurang Vitthala Valame (Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj) started teaching in a school. His motto was ‘Chhatra Devo Bhava‘, meaning ‘Consider student as God.‘ He put his heart and soul into teaching. During his teaching time, he wrote two books on Sanskrit Grammar, parts I and II. Pandurang also collected fourteen inspiring stories from the Upanishads and published a book called ‘The Stories of Upanishads.‘ This book was translated into Hindi and published as ‘Fourteen Jewels of Upanishads.’
Once, Shrimati Ansuyaben Sarabhai was looking for a teacher who could teach her Sanskrit, read excellent Sanskrit literature books and explain them to her. She asked Kaka Saheb Kalelkar for such a teacher, and he suggested Pandurang’s name to her. Shrimati Ansuyaben was very busy with her work and found time only for fifteen days in a month to learn from Pandurang. However, she paid Pandurang his salary regularly for the whole month. One day, Pandurang told her that he was not happy to receive a full month’s salary since he was not teaching her for the full month. She hesitantly asked him to translate a couple of books when he did not have any teaching. Pandurang was very happy. During this time, he translated Tolstoy’s famous booklets ‘Tolstoy and shikshana’ (Tolstoy and Education) and ‘Tyare karishu shu?’ (Then, what should we do?) in Gujarati.
Lectures on Gita:
During that time, a Sadhu named Niranjan came to a village called Diver (Shinor District) and started spreading wrong ideas about Bhagavad Gita and the Hindu religion. The noble people of the village were worried and wondering about how to stop this wrong propaganda. They had heard about Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj and decided to talk to him. So they went to Nareshwar and requested him to visit their village and talk to the people. Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj agreed to it. As soon as the Sadhu heard that Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj was coming, he left the village. Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj gave lectures on Bhagavad Gita for one month. He brought out the essential meaning of Bhagavad Gita, and purged all the wrong degrading ideas from the villagers’ minds.
‘Be Like Me’:
Shri Rang Avadhootji thus started guiding people. Once, when he was in Rajpipala, many people came to listen to him. At that time, the King’s family members also used to come to listen to him. One day, a beggar came; spreading an empty bag before him, he said, ‘O Avadhootji! I do not have any support. This bag is my support. Please ask these rich people to give me something.’ Shri Rang Avadhootji said, ‘You are lucky that you have the support of your bag. I do not have even that. Throw away your bag, and be like me, who has no support. God supports those who have no other support.‘
Why People go to Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj?
People felt divine peace in the presence of Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj. Just by being with him, many people found answers to their questions. They did not have to ask. If a person was sincere and had a genuine question, then Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj would answer. If he felt that the person was not sincere then Shri Avadhootji would just sit quietly. Some people experienced that when they visited Shri Avadhootji to ask a couple of questions, to their surprise, he was talking to others on the same topic and, in conversation, answered their questions.
One lawyer thought that many times Shri Avadhootji did not give lectures and did not even talk, so why did people keep going to see him? The lawyer wondered what they must be getting from seeing him. He wanted to ask Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj himself about it. He regularly went for a few days but could not ask. One day he gathered his courage and asked him the question. Shri Avadhootaji said, ‘I found that you regularly came for a few days. Tell me, why did you come here?’ The lawyer said he did not know why he was attracted to visit him for a few days. Shri Rang Avadhootji said in English, ‘That something which you cannot see, know nor explain, but the existence of which you cannot deny, is the divinity of God. Just like you, all these people come here attracted by that divinity.‘
Teaching through Example:
As part of India’s Freedom Movement, Mahatma Gandhi asked people to give up the bad habit of drinking alcohol. Many families had been ruined due to uncontrolled drinking. Pandurang along with a group of volunteers, visited people who were addicted to drinking to explain to them the ill effects of drinking and requested them to stop drinking. There was one lady who was a heavy drinker. She would not get convinced by anyone. She said that as people had other habits, she had the habit of drinking. What was wrong with that one? Volunteers asked Pandurang to say something to her. Pandurang told them he would try to convince her after a few days. After three-four days, Pandurang went with the volunteers to the lady. He addressed her as ‘sister’ and told her that drinking was not good and that it was ruining her life. The address ‘sister’ and the words of Pandurang created a magical effect on the lady. She became emotional and renounced liquor at that very moment. The volunteers asked Pandurang how he could manage to have such an effect on her. Pandurang said that he had the habit of drinking tea. Within three to four days he had tried to give up this habit. It was hard for him in the beginning, but eventually he succeeded in giving it up. Pandurang said that only after giving up his own habit he was ready to talk to the lady about her habit.
Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj’s writings:
In a dream, Shri Rang Avadhootji received a command from his Guru, Shri Vasudevananda Saraswati, to write about the life of Lord Dattatreya. Following the command of his Guru, he wrote a book about it.
Shri Avadhootji wrote many hymns and bhajans. A collection of his bhajans was published in the book ‘Avadhooti Ananda.‘ His book ‘Rang Hridayam‘ contains some of his Sanskrit hymns and poems. One of his popular books, ‘Datta Nama Smaran,’ is a collection of 108 shlokas. He also wrote ‘Sangit Gita’, a book containing all the shlokas of the Bhagavad Gita written in Gujarati in the same meters as the Sanskrit Shlokas.
He wrote a book titled ‘Atma Chintan‘, exploring the teachings of Vedanta and a book called ‘Shri Datta Panchapadi‘, consisting of bhajans to be sung at night. Even now, many people sing these bhajans at night. He wrote about the significance of the pilgrimage place Nareshwar in a book titled ‘Nareshwara Mahatmya.‘ Shri Rang Avadhootji’s letters were published in two volumes. The letters reveal his various thoughts and his state of mind in Nareshwar.
Once, requested by a follower to chant a mantra or a stotra to relieve his wife’s discomfort/stress, he wrote Datta Bavani, which later became very popular and helped millions of people reduce their pain, discomfort/stress and achieve peace and happiness. Even today, this 52-line hymn is sung regularly in many houses, especially on Thursdays. Shri Rang Avadhootji wrote the famous Datta Bavani while staying at Siddhanath Mahadev Temple in Saija Village near Kalol – Sheratha.
He strongly believed in the existence of one God. According to him, God can be worshipped in different forms and may be known by different names at different places by different people. His philosophy of life and the objectives of his mission can be explained by following the slogans given by him.
Rang Avadhoot Maharaj said: ‘Shwashe shwashe Dattanam Smaratmanam‘ which means keep chanting God’s name along with rhythmic breathing. By doing this, one keeps himself away from ill or evil thoughts, which in turn leads to a better, peaceful and happy life.
A Few Teachings and Sayings of Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj:
– One of his advertisement-writings is amusing:
‘Wanted, Wanted, Wanted’
Who?
Spiritual Teachers
What kind of Teachers?
Those who:
– are not just orators, but practice what they teach
– do not teach by words, but set-up examples from their own life and inspire
– are not eager to advise others, but eager to teach themselves first before teaching
– are not eager to become Gurus, but ready to be disciples of all
– do not steal money of their students, but remove their sufferings
– are not just idealistic, but very pragmatic
– do not remain in dream-land, but are always conscious of everything
What is the salary?
Inner Satisfaction, Eternal Bliss, and Unbroken Inner peace
Where to Apply?
Within your hearts
When to Start Working?
At the very moment you make a firm decision
Where to Join?
Join at the place wherever you are.
How do you know your application was accepted?
When you feel joy within for working.
Whom to send your application?
To your own inner Self – which is Avadhoot.
By ‘The Friend of the World’ – Rang Avadhoot
——————————————————–
Other Teachings:
– ‘Mata Mataiva Kevalam’ – There is nothing like Mother
– ‘Paraspara Devo Bhava’ – May you consider each other as divine.
– ‘Swayam Ashishah Tu Satkarma’ – Good action is a blessing itself.
– ‘Shreyah Prayaso Vishishyate’ – Shreya (preferable) is better than Preya (pleasurable)
– ‘Bhaktir Danbhah Vina Bhavam’ – Devotion without love is hypocrisy.
– ‘Jena Dilama Deenani Daj Nathi Eva Durijananu Ahi Kama Nathi’ – We do not need such a bad person here who does not have love and compassion for poor people.
– One Formless is hidden in the infinitely many forms (that we see).
– The World and God do not care for a beggar.
– Share joys and sorrows of your fellow beings.
– Where there is Oneness, there one finds Prosperity, and Joy.
– Dharma (religion or righteousness) is the one which takes us from animal-life to compassion-filled human life.
– Do not criticise any person, society, institution, or religion.
– Listen to good things even though it is little, think more (on what you had heard), let it go through the testing of discrimination (Viveka), and then practice in life.
– Keep God with you in your every action.
– Past has gone from your hands, so do not brood over it. The future is not in your hands, so don’t dream about it. Take maximum advantage of the present and fill your mind with joy.
– People want benefit without working – how can that happen?
– Unpracticed Knowledge is as useless as wealth buried in the ground.
– One who ignores the responsibilities given by God and simply repeats God’s name is an enemy of God.
– Dharma (Righteousness) should be the foundation of the temple of progress of society and Moksha (Freedom from all bondages) should be its roof.
– The foundation of Joy is the repetition of God’s name.
– ‘Hinena Duyate Iti Hindu’ – One who feels pain within by any harmful action is a Hindu.
– Speak less and do more.
– Bring unity to your thoughts, speech, and actions.
– Keep your head cool, and keep your hands and feet warm (meaning be active in doing good work).
– If you want to improve my health, please keep me with youngsters.
Datta Bavani:
1.
Jai Yogishwar Datta Dayal
Tuj Ek Jagma Pratipal
Atra Ansuya Kari Nimit
Pragatyo Jag Karan Nischit
O! Supreme Lord of Yogis, May Thy Glory and Victory prevail. You are the only saviour of this Universe. You made Atri and Anasuya the instruments to manifest yourself definitely for the welfare of the Universe and mankind.
2.
Brahma Harihar No Avtar
Sharanagat No Taranhar
Antaryami Satchit Sukh Bahar
Sadguru Dwibhuj Sumukh
You are the incarnation of Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva. You are the saviour of those who seek your protection and shelter. You can read and reach the minds and hearts of everyone. You are the true happiness and eternal bliss within. In material appearance you are a good Master with two hands and a pleasant and charming face.
3.
Zori Annapurna Kar Mahya
Shanti Kamandal Kar Sohay
Kyay Chaturbhuj Sadabhuj Saar
Anantbahu Tu Nirdhar
You have in your hand the bag, feeding the whole Universe and a peace-giving water-pot adorns your hand. Somewhere you appear with four arms and other times you manifest yourself with many more arms. Surely you have countless arms.
Aavyo Sharane Bal Ajan
Uth Digambar Chalya Pran
Suni Arjun Kero Saad
Rijyo Purve Tu Sakshat
O! Lord Dattatreya (Digambara), this ignorant child has surrendered to you for protection and shelter. Please arise else I am breathing my last. In the past, you responded to Arjun’s call and being highly pleased with his devotion, you personally bestowed upon him immense wealth and exceptional supernatural and superhuman powers.
5.
Didhi Ridhi Sidhi Apar
Ante Mukti Mahapad Saar
Kidho Aaje Kem Vilamb?
Tuj Vin Mujne Na Aalamb
You granted him an unshakable position of power and wealth. You liberated his soul from the cycle of birth and death. Why the delay today? I have no succour without you (you are my only refuge).
6.
Vishnusharm Dwij Taryo Em
Jamyo Shradhma Dekhi Prem
Jambhdaity Thi Trasya Dev
Kidhi Mher Te Tyon Tatkhev
You liberated the Brahmin Vishnusharma and, seeking his love and devotion, you partook at his obsequious offerings. When the Demon Jambha harassed the Devas, you bestowed mercy on them immediately without any delay.
7.
Vistari Maya Ditisut
Indrakare Hanavyo Turt
Aevi Leela Kai Kai Sharva
Kidhi Varnave Ko Te Sarva
Spreading your divine powers, you had the demon killed instantly at the hands of Indra. O! Lord Shiva, your divine acts and miracles are countless. Who can aptly describe and narrate them all?
8.
Dodyo Aayu Sut Ne Kaam
Kidho Aene Te Nishkam
Bodhya Yadune Parshuram
Sadhydev Prahlad Akam
King Aayu ran to you for the boon of a son. You not only granted him his wish but also liberated him from all desires. You enlightened King Yadu and Parashurama, Saadhyadeva and Prahlaada to liberate them from desires.
9.
Aevi Tari Krupa Agadh
Kem Soone Na Maro Saad?
Dod Anta Na Dekh Anant
Maa Kar Adhvach Shishuno Ant
Such unfathomable is your grace, why do you not heed to my call? Run to my aid, O! Limitless Lord, please do not destroy this child halfway!
10.
Joi Dwij Stree Kero Sneh
Thayo Putra Tu Nihsandeh
Smurtagami Kalitar Krupal
Taryo Dhobi Chhek Gamar
Witnessing the devout love and devotion of a Brahmin woman, you were certainly gracious enough to take birth as her son. O! Instant gracious, compassionate and merciful Lord, saviour in this Kali Yuga, you liberated the illiterate and backward washerman.
11.
Petpidthi Taryo Vipra
Brahman Sheth Ugaryo Kshipra
Kare Kem Na Mari Vhar?
Jo Anigam Ekaj Vaar
You relieved a Brahmin of his abdominal colic and saved a Brahmin sheriff from Kshipra river. Why not rescue me? Look at me just once!
12.
Shushk Kasht Ne Aanya Patra
Thayo Kem Udas in Atra?
Jarjar Vandhya Kera Swapna
Karya Safal Te Sutana Krutsna
You revived a piece of dead wood that started bearing leaves. Why are you so indifferent here? You who fulfilled the cherished dreams of an aged barren lady and blessed her with a son.
13.
Kari Door Brahmanano Kodh
Kidha Puran Aena Kod
Vandhya Bhes Doojavi Dev
Haryu Daridhra Te Tatkhev
Curing the Brahmin of leukoderma, you fulfilled his cherished desires. You made a barren buffalo milk yielding and instantly alleviated poverty.
14
Jalar Khai Rijyo Aem
Didho Suvarna Ghat Saprem
Brahman Streeno Mrut Bharthar
Kidho Sajivan Te Nirdhar
Pleased with just a meal of lima beans, you lovingly bestowed upon the family a pot full of golden treasure. You undoubtedly restored to life the dead husband of a Brahmin lady.
15.
Pishach-Peeda Kidhi Door
Vipraputra Uthadyo Shoor
Hari Vipramad Antyaj Haath
Rakshyo Bhakta Trivikram Taat
Breaking, the spell of evil spirits cast on a brave Brahmin’s son you saved him. You humbled the proud Brahmins at the hands of an untouchable and thus protected your devotee Trivikram.
16.
Nimeshmatre Tantuk Aek
Pahochadyo Shri Shaile Dekh
Eki Sathe Aath Swaroop Dhari
Dev Bahuroop Aroop
You have reached Heaven on Earth, and you took your devotees with you in style. You took eight different forms simultaneously—O Formless Lord! You can take multiple forms.
17.
Santoshya Nij Bhakta Sujat
Aapi Parchao Saskshat
Yavanraj Ni Tali Peed
Jaatpaat Ni Tane Na Cheed
You satisfied your staunch devotees by performing yourself astonishing acts of Divine Grace. You relieved of his ailments. You have no aversion to any caste or creed.
18.
Ramkrishna Roope Te Aem
Kidhi Lilao Kai Tem
Tarya Patthar Ganika Vyadh
Pashu Pankhi Pan Tujne Sadh
You performed numerous miracles in the form of Lord Rama and Lord Krishna. Lord Rama brought Ahalya back to life from a rock; enlightened Pingala, the prostitute; transformed a wild life hunter into a great saint Valmiki. Under your influence, beasts like elephant Gajendra, and vultures like Jatayu, also behaved saintly.
19.
Adham Odharan Taru Naam
Gaata Saare Na Sha Sha Kaam?
Aadhi Vyadhi Upadhi Sarva
Tale Smaran Matra Thi Sarva
Your name transforms the worst sinners into saints. What cannot be attained by chanting your name? All mental and physical ailments, agonies, miseries and all material problems end only by remembering you. And chanting your name.
20.
Moothchot Na Lage Jaan
Pame Nar Smarane Nirvan
Dakan Shakan Bhensasur
Bhoot Pishacho Jand Asur
Remembering you, black magic cannot harm or affect human beings and they can attain eternal bliss or liberation. Witches, ghosts, goblins, evil spirits and demons—
21.
Nase Moothi Daine Turt
Datta Dhun Sambharta Murt
Kari Dhoop Gaye Je Aem
Datta Bavani Aa Saprem
Vanish at once hearing the continuous chanting of Lord Dattatreyas name. He, who devoutly sings this Datta Baavani with lighted incense, shines with unconditional love.
22.
Sudhare Tena Banne Lok
Rahe Na Tene Kyaye Shok
Dasi Sidhdhi Teni Thay
Dukh Daridhra Tena Jaye
His life improves on earth and beyond and nowhere remains any desires. Achievements will be servant-like at his command and he will be able to get rid of poverty, misery and scarcities.
23.
Bavan Guruvare Nit Nem
Kare Path Bavan Saprem
Yathavkashe Nitya Niyam
Tene Kadi Na Dande Yam
One who recites Datta Bavani with love and devotion fifty-two times on fifty-two consecutive Thursdays as well as when one is free and regularly as a daily ritual, he will never be punished by Yamraj.
24.
Anek Roope Ae Ja Abhang
Bhajta Nade Na Maya-Rang
Sahastra Name Nami Ek
Datta Digambar Asang Chhek
He, the formless is the eternal one in several diversified forms. Worshipping Him will keep away all worldly attachments. Thousand names speak of that nameless one but Datta, the sky clad, is one and absolutely aloof from all attachments!
25.
Vandu Tujne Varamvar
Ved Shwas Tara Nirdhar
Thake Varnavta Jya Shesh
Kon Rank Hu Bahu Krut Vesh
I bow down to you again and again. Vedas are in your every breath. If Shesha gets tired trying to describe your glories aptly, who am I, a poor guy who has taken several births.
26.
Anubhav Trupti No Udgar
Suni Hase Te Khase Maar
Tapsi Tatvamasi Ae Dev
Bolo Jai Jai Shri Gurudev
This is an expression of experience and deep satisfaction. One who laughs at it will surely get punished. O Tapasi! You yourself are that Lord Supreme. Sing aloud the Victory and Glory of Shri Gurudeva!
Sacred Practices/Sadhana
Spiritual Urge:
Since childhood, Pandurang did japa [mental repetition of the divine name] of Lord Rama. He used to get up as early as 2:00 am to do Yoga Asanas and spiritual practices like pranayama and meditation. He used to read inspiring books. In Vadodara, Pandurang regularly met a saintly person. Every now and then Pandurang looked for a secluded place to intensify his spiritual practices.
When Pandurang’s younger brother Narayana finished his studies, started his job, settled in Mumbai and was ready to take care of his mother, Pandurang went to his mother and said, ‘Mother! For a long time, I had this desire to give up the world, go to a secluded place like a forest and plunge into my spiritual practices.‘ His mother was shocked. After her husband had passed away, she wished that her sons would get married and settle down. Pandurang said that if she forced him to marry, she would be unhappy as he was not interested in living as a householder. Pandurang said that if she was looking for a daughter to look after her and ask for her blessings, then she would find that many daughters would come to look after her and seek her blessings if she would let him go for spiritual practices. Seeing his intense desire for spiritual practices Pandurang’s mother gave her consent and blessings.
Pandurang was anxious about finding a secluded place and plunging himself into spiritual practices. He met many saints and asked for their guidance. He went to Saint Shri Keshavanandaji of Saikheda. Many people used to go to him for instructions. Usually, the saint observed silence. Pandurang discovered that the saint sometimes spoke to sincere people at midnight, so Pandurang went to see the saint at that time. He offered a couple of mangoes, saluted the saint and asked for his guidance. Shri Keshavanandaji said that it was not good for Pandurang to stay with him as many people used to come there, and Pandurang would not be able to find quiet time. He asked Pandurang to go to the bank of Narmada and find a proper place there. Shri Keshavanandaji was happily eating the offered mangoes and kept telling Pandurang, ‘Jungleman Maangal’ (It is good in a forest.) Pandurang felt that he had received the saint’s blessings. Later, when Pandurang ate a mango from the same basket of the offered mangoes, he found that the mango was very sour. Then he realised that the saint was very compassionate and he had to enjoy everything even if the things were not to his taste.
Finally, a well-wisher, Shri Haragovinddas Soni, suggested to Pandurang a place called Deharaa (now Nareshwar) on the bank of Narmada. Deharaa had a cremation ground used by seven villages, and a dense forest filled with snakes and scorpions. Pandurang liked the place, and he settled there in the cold winter of 1925. After three months, he had a livable hut there for his stay.
Daily Routine of Spiritual Practices:
Pandurang used to wake up around 3:30 a.m. He would take a shower with a pot filled with Narmada water which was brought the previous night. Then, he would meditate until dawn. At that time, he would put ‘khichadi’ (a mixture of rice and daal) on a wooden stove to cook. Then, he would go to the Narmada River for his bath. While leaving, he would tell the ‘khichadi’ that it better be cooked when he returned, otherwise he would eat it uncooked. While taking a bath in the Narmada River he would do japa. Sometimes he would get so absorbed in japa that he would forget everything around him. Once, when he opened his eyes, he found himself surrounded by three alligators. He sprinkled water on them and told them that they had seen him, and now could go. Somehow the alligators went away, and he was saved. After his meal, he would rest a little bit and then again spend time in meditation and thinking about God. If someone visited him, he would talk a little to the visitor. Otherwise, he stayed absorbed in his spiritual practices.
He expressed his state in a song. It says that in the cool shade of a forest, a Yogi is living happily. Sometimes he laughs, sometimes he sings, and sometimes he cries. His day goes with the sun and night with the stars. He talks to the trees and plays with the birds. He burns his ego and hatred within and never enjoys lust or greed. He remains awake day and night and considers the objects of the senses as poison. He recites the names of God with every breath and enjoys peace within. All of his doubts get destroyed within moments. When he becomes unified with the thinking of God, Moksha falls at his feet. With the background music of tanpura of ‘Tat Tvam Asi’ (That Thou Art), the ‘Rang’ (joy) of singing glories of God heightens, and he attains the Supreme Knowledge.
Transformation:
Through his intense spiritual practices Pandurang Vithalla Valame transformed into a saintly person and became Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj. Many people started to visit him. In his presence people felt divinity and peace within, and were uplifted by his talks.
In the foreword of ‘Avadhuta Gita’ translated from Sanskrit to English by Swami Ashokananda, published by Sri Ramakrishna Math, Madras, 2009, there is the following explanation of the Avadhuta state:
‘Avadhuta means a liberated soul, one who has “passed away from” or “shaken off” all worldly attachments and cares, and has attained a spiritual state equivalent to the existence of God. Though ‘Avadhuta’ naturally implies renunciation, it includes an additional and yet higher state, which is neither attachment nor detachment but beyond both. An Avadhuta feels no need of observing any rules, either secular or religious. He seeks nothing. He has neither knowledge nor ignorance. Having realised that he is the infinite Self, he lives in that vivid realisation. To the Hindu mind, Dattatreya is the symbol of this realisation.’
People found all these qualities in Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj, which is why he became later known as an Avadhuta. People also considered him an incarnation of Dattatreya.
Swami Vivekananda said, ‘Men like Dattatreya, the one who wrote this Song (Avadhuta Gita), keep religion alive. They have actually realised; they care for nothing, feel nothing done to the body, and care not for heat, cold, danger, or anything. They sit still, enjoying the bliss of Atman, and even when red-hot coals burn the body, they feel them not.‘
Shri Datta Jayanti Celebrations:
Shri Rang Avadhootji mainly observed silence. When one devotee used to bring or send food on Thursdays and Sundays through another devotee, Shri Avadhootji used to speak to them. Later, people discovered that Shri Avadhootji spoke on Thursdays and Sundays. Then, more people started coming on Thursdays and Sundays to salute Shri Avadhootji and to ask him their questions. Since Shri Avadhootji sang the glories of Lord Datta, people decided to celebrate Shri Datta Jayanti in his presence. Every year, devotees celebrated Shri Datta Jayanti for two days by reciting ‘Shri Guru Lilamruta’, singing bhajans and dhoons, and offering special worship to Lord Dattatreya. During the celebration, everything was well organised, and people were self-disciplined, keeping the dignity of the celebration and the place. Within a few years, thousands of people started attending the Datta Jayanti celebration. Word spread that Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj had created an inspiring place of pilgrimage at Nareshwar. Great Gujarati poet and patriot Shri Jhaverchand Meghani wrote admiringly about the Datta Jayanti celebration at Nareshwar. Since the number of participants became very large, Shri Rang Avadhootji told them that they should celebrate Shri Datta Jayanti in their own villages and that he would visit the villages in rotation.
Miracles
One night Pandurang was lying down outside his hut. Two thieves thought that Pandurang might have some money that he was hiding. They came with a ‘dharia’ (a sharp weapon that can kill a person). One stood at Pandurang’s head and another near his feet. Pandurang did not panic. He was calm and did not move or show any fear. One of them said, ‘Open the door of the hut.’ Pandurang said while lying down, ‘The door is open. Inside, I have the wealth of the whole universe. Take as much as you want.‘ The thieves figured that he did not have anything in the hut, but were amazed by his fearlessness. They asked him, ‘Maharaj! (Sadhu) Aren’t you afraid of anything?’ Pandurang said, ‘Whom to be afraid of? Dwitiyat vai bhayam bhavati’ (which means fear comes when there is another person). When there is no other person, whom should I be afraid of? You and myself, we are all Brahman. There is no difference between you and me.‘ One thief asked, ‘What would you do if we killed you?’ Pandurangji said, ‘Well, one of you hold me, and one of you kill me and see what I can do.‘ The thieves realized their mistake of coming to the wrong person to rob. They just left him unharmed.
Scorpion bite:
Once, at midnight, when Pandurang was sleeping, a wild scorpion suddenly fell on his bed. Before Pandurang realised what it was, the scorpion bit him on his hand. Pandurang felt as if his whole body was on fire and did not know what to do. In the dark, he went to Narmada River, which was flooded at that time. He put his hand into the water of Narmada. After a long time, the pain was gone. Later, Pandurang described this incident in a letter and wrote that his mind was filled with great joy and there was no one to share it with. After this painful situation, his inner joy doubled.
Harassment by People:
While Pandurang enjoyed the bliss of God, many neighbouring people became skeptical and suspicious about him. They started thinking: ‘Why is this person living alone in a forest? ‘Is he a secret agent?’ ‘People come to see him, and sometimes he talks in English – maybe he is a freedom fighter and hiding himself’ and many other such things. Some people did not like his calm demeanour. They would have been happy to see a Sadhu smearing his body with ashes, keeping a trident, burning leaves or woods, and smoking pot. So, to disturb his peace, one person killed a peacock and left its dead body near his hut.
The peacock is the national bird of India and killing it is a major offence. The person thought that the police would come, discover this major offence and drive Pandurang out. However, guided by a Sadhu, Pandurang met the leaders of the village, filled in a few appropriate documents and submerged the body of the peacock in the Narmada river.
Once, a few people told a police inspector to visit Pandurang and find out who he was. They thought if he was a freedom fighter, the police would arrest him and put him in jail. Accordingly, a police inspector came and sat among the group of people with whom Pandurang was talking. Pandurang noticed, but he continued as if he had not seen the police inspector. After a while, the inspector asked Pandurang if Pandurang knew that he was a police inspector. Pandurang asked him how he could have known that he was a police inspector. If the inspector had come with few police officers, then he would have known who he was. But, coming with a few ladies, no one could recognise him as a police inspector. Then the inspector asked Pandurang whether he knew some tricks. Pandurang said that he knew tricks that would turn an arrogant person like the police inspector himself into a humble human being. The police inspector was stunned by the fearlessness and straight talk of Pandurang. After some time, he quietly left the place.
Contemporary Masters
VASUDEVANANDA SARASWATI (Tembe Swami) was born to devotees of Lord Dattatreya. His father, Shri Ganesh Bhataji Tembe, spent many years in the temple of Lord Datta in Ganagapur, Karnataka. Tradition holds that Lord Datta appeared to him in a dream and informed him that he would be born as his son. Vasudev was born on the 5th day of the dark fortnight of the month of Shravan of 1854 A.D. after his father returned from Gangapur.
Pandurang accepted Vasudevananda Saraswati as his Guru the moment he met him as a young boy of eight years. Like his Guru, he became an Avadhoot in the Dattatreya tradition.
As a Freedom Fighter & Meeting with Mahatma Gandhi:
In 1921, Shri Lokmanya Tilak, a great Indian leader and a freedom fighter passed away. In Jubili Park of Vadodara a rally was held by all the students in honour of Shri Tilak. Pandurang gave a very powerful speech and offered his reverence to Shri Lokmanya Tilak. In his letters Pandurang wrote how he grieved over the passing away of Shri Tilak.
During that time, Mahatma Gandhi started taking the leadership of India to free India from slavery. He asked all the youngsters to join in this freedom movement. Pandurang went to one of the meetings of the Congress. As he presented himself as a student representative, Mahatma Gandhi asked, ‘Did you bring any documentation?’ Pandurang said, ‘Is there a coronation ceremony for a lion to be the king of the forest? Let me know if anyone else comes claiming to be a student representative from the same region.‘ Mahatma Gandhi was very much impressed by Pandurang’s tremendous self-confidence. Mahatma Gandhi said that if he had 100 passionate students like Pandurang, India would be free in no time.
Pandurang was in the senior year of his undergraduate program. His mother was waiting for him to get a degree and earn money to ease the financial problems of the family. Pandurang was aware of this but could not resist his inner voice to work for the freedom of his motherland. So, one day, he wrote on the college blackboard, ‘To fight for the freedom of my country, I am leaving this college. Anyone who wants to join me, come along with me.‘
Pandurang came to Ahmedabad. He started writing in newspapers and magazines to raise public consciousness to engage all in the fight for freedom. He was writing a column named ‘Bhangno Loto’ (A pitcher of Bhang – a mild intoxicated drink people take in Shivaratri) with the pen name ‘Ganjeri’ (An Addict).
Once, Pandurang went to Dakor for a pilgrimage. When he returned, Mahatma Gandhi said that Dakor was not a clean place since it had lots of filth all over. Pandurang replied, ‘Bapu (a loving address as a father to Mahatma Gandhi)! I did not go to Dakor to see the dirt. I went to salute the deity Shri Ranchhodarayaji (Shri Krishna), and I was very happy to do that. Next time when I go to Dakor, then I will see how filthy it is.‘ Mahatma Gandhi said that it was true that one sees what one wants to see.
Mahatma Gandhi started a university called Gujarat Vidyapith in 1920. He enrolled the first thirteen students to this university who came to Ahmedabad after quitting their colleges to fight for India’s freedom. Pandurang was one of the thirteen students who were thus enrolled. In this university Pandurang met the famous Gujarati writer and thinker Kakasaheb Kalelkar. Kakasaheb had a very high regard for Pandurang. All thirteen students received a degree from Gujarat Vidyapith. Pandurang received a degree of ‘Bhasha Visharad’ (expert in language).
Holy Sites and Pilgrimages
Narmada Parikrama:
Shri Rang Avadhootji was always engaged in spiritual practices. Once, he thought of reading ‘Datta Purana’ 108 times and also to do japa. He then wanted to celebrate the completion of his reading. However, he did not have any money, and he would never ask anyone for money. So, as a celebration, he decided to complete Parikrama (meaning walking around the whole Narmada River) in 108 days.
Though it is possible to walk around the Narmada River, it is a difficult task. Thousands of people do this ‘Parikrama.’ The rule is to start at any place on the bank of the Narmada River, walk around the river, and return to the same place. Only at Vimaleshwar, where the Narmada River meets the ocean, can one take a boat and go to the other side of the river. Many people die doing this ‘Parikrama.’
Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj started his ‘Parikrama’ in a place called Mortakka. On average, he used to walk twenty-five miles per day and sometimes even fifty miles. He walked every day except when he was sick or if a sincere devotee requested him to stay. In those cases, he would stay for a day or two. If people offered him food, he would eat; otherwise, he would melt jaggery (brown sugar) in water and drink it in place of a meal. He had amazing experiences with people’s kindliness and good-heartedness. Many strangers gave him meals and even jaggery when he had used up all his supplies.
Someone asked Shri Avadhootji: ‘We are doing “Parikrama” to remove our worldly suffering. You do not have any worldly suffering, then why are you going through these difficulties?’ Shri Rang Avadhootaji said, ‘I am in search of suffering, but I am not finding any. In all circumstances, I always feel joy within.‘ Shri Avadhootji often said that if one had any doubt about the existence of God, one should go on a Parikrama of the Narmada River where he/she would have many experiences which would remove all doubts about God’s existence.
Shri Rang Avadhootji met a devotee who was singing bhajans with a ‘tamburo’ (a string instrument which gives a scale for singing,) while doing Parikrama. One night, some robbers confronted them and demanded all the money and the precious things they have. Everyone gave what they had, but the devotee with the tamburo did not give his tamburo. He told the robbers he needed the tamburo to sing bhajans. But the robbers snatched his tamburo and smashed it on the ground. The hollow bottom of the tamburo broke and several coins fell out of it. Everyone realised why he did not want to give away his tamburo, besides wanting it for singing. Later when Shri Avadhootji found that the devotee was really missing his tamburo to sing bhajans, he requested some kind-hearted person to buy him another tamburo.
Shri Rang Avadhootji’s spiritual personality attracted many people, and they felt blessed to provide him with food. Witnessing this, some people tried to accompany him on his walk. But Shri Rang Avadhootji liked to walk alone and think of God. Hence, he had to find ways to be alone.
On his way, notable people at a couple of places asked him to be the head of their religious institutions, but he denied those requests. He said that he just wanted to be free from all bondages. At Vimaleshwar, Shri Rang Avadhootji and some other people were crossing the Narmada River by boat. All of a sudden, a big storm came and started rocking the boat. People thought they were going to die soon. Some started crying, and some were screaming. Shri Rang Avadhootji sat quietly. People asked him to pray to the Narmada River for his life. Shri Avadhootji said, ‘Look, if I die, I will be dying in the lap of Mother Narmada. If we survive, then we would have made it to the opposite bank of the river.’ The storm subsided, and everyone landed safely on the other side of the river. After that incident, Shri Rang Avadhootji wrote ‘Vande Narmadam.’ Upon completion of the Parikrama, Shri Avadhootji came back to Nareshwar. He then came to be known as ‘Nareshwar Nivasi Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj.’
Nareshwar Dham – Ashram of Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj
This is a holy place with a temple and the idol of Shri Rang Avadhoot Maharaj. The place is near the bank of the Narmada river and is tree-covered. Bathing in the river is available. Food and a parking facility are also available.
Bibliography
– Nareshwarana Rang Avadhoot by Shri Dhirubai Joshi [in Gujarati] – Shri Avadhoot Sahitya Prakashan Trust, Nareshwar, 2011
– Many other texts are available in the Gujarati language.
External Links
www.rangavadhoot.us
http://radiant-living.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Thus-Spake-Sri-Ranga-Avadhuta_compressed-1.pdf
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The above information is largely based upon the biography “Nareshwarana Rang Avadhoot” written in Gujarati by Shri Dhirubhai Joshi. This book is published by “Shri Avadhoot Sahitya Prakashan Trust, Nareshwar,” August 22, 2011.
