Biography of hindu saints biography

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Saints of Ancient Times[edit]

The Acharyas[edit]

Six Goswamis of Vrindavan[edit]

Saints of Maharashtra[edit]

Saints of North India[edit]

Saints of South India[edit]

Women Saints[edit]

Bhakti Movement of modern day Tamil Nadu[edit]

Ancient Tamil Nadu saw two important Bhakti movements, which most probably preceded the philosophical movements of Adi Sankara and Ramanuja Acharya.

He reached the world with his message, and even today his ideology of Gandhism is applied for political ends.

biography of hindu saints biography

As of April 10, 2025, their teachings remain incredibly relevant and continue to inspire millions.

Overview of Hindu Saints

Hindu saints, celebrated for their deep spiritual insight and societal influence, are revered as individuals dedicated to the pursuit of truth and selfless service. He was a renowned seer of sacred Mantras, an expert in scriptures and one of the principal composers of Smriti texts.

Prominent Gurus and Saints

Brief Information about some of the most noteworthy Gurus and Saints of Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism and Hinduism is given below -

  1. Shankaracharya - Adi Shankara (788-820 C.E.), along with Madhva and Ramanuja, was instrumental in the revival of Hinduism.
  2. Ramanuja - Shri Ramanuja Acharya (1017-1137 C.E.) was great Hindu philosopher and thinker.

    These saints—spanning from ancient rishis to medieval bhakti poets and modern-day gurus—have shown the path of Dharma, Bhakti (devotion), Jnana (knowledge), and Seva (service).

    Here’s an overview of some of the most revered Hindu saints and the essence of their teachings:


    🕉️ Ancient & Vedic Era Saints

    1.

    Their glory has ever been green in our memory. He founded the Ramakrishna Mission, dedicated to the propagation of education, healthcare, and acts of kindness.

    ContributionSignificance
    Introduction of Hinduism to the WestPromoted cultural diversity and understanding.
    Founding of the Ramakrishna MissionFocused on education, service, and social welfare.

    Paramahansa Yogananda

    Paramahansa Yogananda is renowned for introducing Kriya Yoga and meditation practices to the West.

    His writings, including commentaries on the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita, continue to guide scholarly reflection within Hinduism.

    ContributionSignificance
    Philosophy of Advaita VedantaEmphasizes the inherent oneness with Brahman.
    Establishment of MathasStrengthens spiritual learning and fosters community bonds.

    Swami Vivekananda

    In the late 19th century, Swami Vivekananda gained prominence by introducing Hindu wisdom to the Western world.

    To be in their company is the highest education. For further insights into ethical teachings from these saints, explore our resources on hindu ethics and karma.

By Krishna Maheshwari

Mahatma Gandhi was a living symbol of Hinduism and its practices to the greatest extent. Tulsidas is renowned for his great devotion towards Lord Rama.
  • Guru Ravidas - Guru Ravidas (1377-1527 C.E.) was a famous saint of the Bhakti Movement.
  • Sant Kabirdas - Sant Kabirdas (1440-1518 circa) was a famous poet, saint and social reformer of India.
  • Kavi Surdas - Surdas (1478-1581 C.E.) was a great poet and musician known for his devotional songs dedicated to Lord Krishna.
  • Meerabai - Meerabai (1498-1547 circa) was a great Hindu poet and ardent devotee of Lord Krishna.
  • Chaitanya Mahaprabhu - Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486-1534 C.E.) was a great spiritual teacher and the founder of Gaudiya Vaishnavism.

    They move from door to door and impart wisdom. Serving as spiritual guides and mentors, they assist followers on their religious and ethical journeys. Saints, to whatever clime they may belong, have left their footprints on the sands of time, so that others, who are true and faithful, may follow their track in search of the Eternal Truth.

    Among those 63 sages, four Natyanmars were the most important and they were Appar, Thirugnana Sambandar, Thirunavukkarsar and Manika Vasagar.

    Saints can have one or more titles attached to their name (and some have none). Their very life is exemplary. Her impact transcends religious boundaries, encapsulating the essence of love and service integral to Hindu beliefs.

    ContributionSignificance
    Establishment of the Missionaries of CharityProvided aid to the impoverished and suffering.
    Advocacy for love and compassionReflected core Hindu ideals of universal compassion.

    Sai Baba

    Sai Baba is a revered spiritual figure, beloved by millions of Hindus and Muslims alike.

    Sant Tyagaraja (18th century)

    • Devotee of: Lord Rama
    • Legacy: Carnatic music infused with bhakti
    • Teachings: Music as a path to God

    🕯️ Modern Hindu Saints & Gurus

    10.

    Saints and sages only can become real advisers to the kings, because they are selfless and possess the highest wisdom.

    For the welfare of the world, Rishi Dadhichi selflessly donated his own bones, which were later used to create the divine weapon Vajra to destroy the demon Vritrasura.

  • Maharishi Parashara - Rishi Parashara is known in Hindu tradition as the author of the Parashara Dharma Samhita and Vrikshayurveda. He emphasized the primacy of love, compassion, and faith over religious distinctions.

    Born in the late 19th century, Sai Baba championed ahimsa (non-violence) and satyagraha (truthful persistence).

    Let’s explore some of the most legendary Hindu saints and their timeless contributions.

    Adi Shankaracharya

    Dating back to the 8th century, Adi Shankaracharya stands as a remarkable philosopher and theologian who unified the tenets of Advaita Vedanta. Many have actively combatted social injustices and worked to bridge divides among different groups.

    Key aspects of their enduring legacy include:

    Area of ImpactImportance
    Spiritual GuidanceOffering pathways for spiritual growth and evolution.
    Ethical TeachingsPromoting essential virtues and behaviors, thereby strengthening ethical foundations within society.
    Social JusticePlaying a pivotal role in addressing critical issues such as the caste system and gender equality.

    Through their continued impact, Hindu saints serve as vital links between ancient traditions and the contemporary world, fostering the evolution of core Hindu values in the face of modern transformations.