Meera- the untold story of the exiled princess

Introduction to Meera Story

In the annals of Indian history and spirituality, few figures shine as brightly as Meera Story, the devoted princess whose life took an extraordinary turn. Her tale is one of unwavering faith, profound devotion, and the courage to follow one’s heart in the face of adversity. Today, we’ll delve into the lesser-known aspects of Meera’s life, particularly focusing on her exile and the events that shaped her legendary status.

Early Life and Royal Upbringing

Birth and Family Background

Meera Story, also known as Mirabai, was born around 1498 in Kurki, a small village in Rajasthan, India. She was born into the Rajput aristocracy, with her grandfather being Rao Dudaji, a prominent feudal lord. From the very beginning, Meera’s life was steeped in privilege and royal tradition.

Childhood in the Palace

Growing up in the opulent surroundings of a Rajput palace, young Meera was exposed to the finest education and cultural experiences of her time. However, unlike many of her peers, Meera showed an early inclination towards spirituality. It was during these formative years that the seeds of her future devotion were sown.

Meera’s Spiritual Awakening

Introduction to Lord Krishna

As the story goes, Meera’s spiritual journey began when she was just a child. She witnessed a wedding procession and, in her innocence, asked her mother who her husband would be. Her mother, pointing to an idol of Lord Krishna, told her that He was to be her husband. This simple incident left an indelible mark on Meera Story young mind, setting the stage for her lifelong devotion to Krishna.

Devotional Poetry and Bhajans

As Meera Story grew older, her devotion to Krishna intensified. She began composing and singing devotional songs, or bhajans, dedicated to her beloved Lord. These compositions, filled with raw emotion and spiritual fervor, would later become a significant part of her legacy.

Marriage and Royal Duties

Arranged Marriage to Prince Bhoj Raj

In keeping with the customs of the time, Meera Story was married to Prince Bhoj Raj of Chittor in 1516. As a princess of Mewar, she was expected to fulfill her royal duties and conform to the expectations of her new family. However, Meera’s heart remained devoted to Krishna, creating a conflict that would shape the rest of her life.

Conflict between Devotion and Royal Obligations

Meera Story single-minded devotion to Krishna began to cause friction within the royal household. She spent most of her time in the temple, singing and dancing in praise of Krishna, much to the disapproval of her in-laws. This unconventional behavior for a royal princess set the stage for the challenges that lay ahead.

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Growing Opposition at Court

Rumors and Gossip

As Meera Story reputation as a devotee grew, so did the opposition against her at the royal court. Rumors began to circulate about her character and her devotion was often misinterpreted as madness or rebellion against royal norms. The conservative elements of the court saw her behavior as a threat to their traditional way of life.

Attempts to Discredit Meera

The opposition didn’t stop at mere gossip. There were several attempts to discredit and even harm Meera. According to popular legends, she was sent a basket of flowers with a poisonous snake hidden inside, and on another occasion, she was given a cup of poison disguised as nectar. Miraculously, Meera Story survived these attempts, further cementing her followers’ belief in her divine protection.

The Turning Point: Exile from Chittor

Circumstances Leading to Exile

The constant conflict and attempts on her life eventually led to a critical juncture in Meera Story life. The exact circumstances of her exile are shrouded in mystery, with different versions existing in folklore. Some say she left voluntarily to escape the persecution, while others believe she was forcibly banished. Regardless of the specifics, this exile marked a significant turning point in Meera’s life.

Meera’s Journey into the Unknown

Leaving behind the comfort and security of royal life, Meera Story set out on a journey that would test her faith and resilience. With nothing but her devotion to Krishna to guide her, she embarked on a pilgrimage that would take her across the length and breadth of India.

Life as a Wandering Mystic

Travels Across India

Meera’s exile took her to various holy places across India. She traveled to Vrindavan, the birthplace of Krishna, where she immersed herself in devotional practices. She also visited other significant pilgrimage sites like Dwarka and Mathura. During these travels, Meera Story continued to compose and sing her bhajans, touching the hearts of people wherever she went.

Influence on Local Communities

As a wandering mystic, Meera had a profound impact on the communities she encountered. Her devotion, coupled with her royal background, made her a unique figure. She broke social barriers, interacting with people from all walks of life and spreading the message of devotion and love for the Divine.

Meera’s Legacy and Impact

Contributions to Bhakti Movement

Meera’s life and works played a significant role in the Bhakti movement, a spiritual revolution that swept across medieval India. Her emphasis on personal devotion and direct connection with the Divine, bypassing traditional religious hierarchies, resonated with many. Her bhajans, composed in simple, accessible language, brought spiritual concepts to the common people.

Inspiration for Future Generations

The story of Meera – her devotion, her courage, and her unwavering faith – has continued to inspire generations long after her time. Her life serves as a powerful example of following one’s spiritual path, regardless of societal pressures or personal hardships. Today, Meera is revered not just as a saint, but as a symbol of devotional love and spiritual freedom.

Conclusion of Meera Story

The story of Meera, the exiled princess turned mystic, is a testament to the power of faith and devotion. Her journey from a life of royal privilege to that of a wandering saint is a narrative that continues to captivate and inspire. Through her exile, Meera found not isolation, but a connection with the Divine that transcended all worldly bonds. Her life reminds us that true freedom and fulfillment often lie beyond the confines of societal expectations, in the realm of spiritual seeking.

FAQs

Why is Meera considered a significant figure in Indian history?Meera is considered significant for her contributions to the Bhakti movement and her exemplary devotion to Krishna, which challenged societal norms of her time.
What are bhajans, and why are Meera’s bhajans famous?Bhajans are devotional songs. Meera’s bhajans are famous for their emotional depth, simplicity, and the spiritual truths they convey.
Did Meera really face attempts on her life?While historical evidence is limited, popular legends suggest that Meera faced several attempts on her life due to her unconventional behavior at the royal court.
Where did Meera go after leaving Chittor?After leaving Chittor, Meera is said to have traveled to various holy places including Vrindavan, Dwarka, and Mathura.
How has Meera’s story influenced modern Indian culture?Meera’s story has inspired numerous works of art, literature, and cinema. Her life continues to be a symbol of devotion and the pursuit of spiritual freedom in modern Indian culture.