Learn about Jalaram Bapa's devotion to Lord Rama, his legacy, and his role in the Bhakti movement in Gujarat.
Jalaram Bapa and His Devotion
Jalaram Bapa: A Life Dedicated to Service and Devotion
Jalaram Bapa (4 November 1799 - 23 February 1881), popularly known as Bapa, was a revered Hindu saint from Gujarat, India. Born on 4 November 1799, a week after the Hindu festival of Diwali, which is associated with his Iṣṭa-devatāLord Rama, he is widely worshipped in Gujarat. Thursday is considered his auspicious day in Hinduism. Images of Jalaram Bapa typically portray him wearing white, with a stick in his left hand and a tulsi mala in his right hand, symbolizing purity and simplicity.
Early Life and Family
Born in Virpur, Rajkot district, Gujarat, India, in 1799, on the seventh day of the Kartika month, Jalaram Bapa was the son of Pradhan Thakkar and Rajbai Thakkar, who belonged to the Lohana clan.
He married Virbai, the daughter of Pragjibhai Thakkar (Somaiya) of Atkot, in 1816.
Jalaram Bapa and Virbai had a daughter named Jamnaben.
Embracing Spirituality: Discipleship and Service
Despite initial involvement in his father's business, Jalaram Bapa felt a strong inclination towards spiritual service.
He dedicated himself to serving pilgrims, sadhus, and saints.
At the age of 18, upon returning from a pilgrimage to Hindu holy places, Jalaram Bapa became a disciple of Bhoja Bhagat of Fatehpur.
He received the Guru Mantra and japa mala in the name of Rama from his Guru.
With his guru's blessings, he established a "Sadavrat," a feeding center where all sadhus, saints, and the needy could receive food at any time.
Miracles and Divine Manifestations
A significant event occurred when a sadhu who visited his house presented him with a deity of Lord Rama, foretelling the arrival of Hanuman, the monkey-god and devotee of Rama.
Jalaram Bapa installed Rama as his family deity. Shortly after, a deity of Hanuman miraculously appeared from the earth. The deities of Sita, Rama's consort, and his brother Lakshmana also appeared.
Miraculously, the container of grains in Jalaram's house became inexhaustible.
Jalaram Bapa became renowned for his divine grace and miraculous deeds. People from all walks of life, regardless of their caste, creed, or religion, sought his blessings.
One famous story recounts how Jalaram Bapa cured a tailor named Haraji from a severe stomach ache. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Haraji addressed Jalaram Bapa as "Bapa" (father), a title that subsequently became synonymous with him.
Jalaram Bapa's fame continued to grow. People came to him seeking cures for diseases and solutions to their problems. Jalaram Bapa would pray to Rama on their behalf, and miracles often followed.
Another significant event involved God, disguised as an old saint, instructing Jalaram Bapa to send his wife, Virbai, to serve him. This incident tested their faith and hospitality.
The Legacy of Jalaram Bapa: A Life Dedicated to Service and Devotion
Jalaram Bapa peacefully passed away on February 23, 1881, at the age of 81. Even after his passing, some of his devout followers believe in the continuation of his miraculous powers.
Jalaram Bapa's life serves as an inspiration for many. His dedication to service, his compassion for all beings, and his unwavering faith in God continue to inspire generations. He is especially known for his emphasis on caring for the poor and marginalized, providing them with food and shelter. His teachings and devotional songs continue to inspire millions of followers, especially in Gujarat, where his legacy is celebrated through the Jalaram Bapa temples and his devotional hymns.
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