Dnyanoba

Dnyanoba (13th century) is the traditional affectionate form of the name of Dnyaneshwar (Jnaneshwar, c. 1275–1296), the great Marathi saint of Alandi.

Background

Dnyaneshwar was born in Alandi, Maharashtra, into a Brahmin family that had been excommunicated. He was one of the four children of Vitthalapant and his wife Rukmini; his siblings were Nivruttinath (his elder brother and guru), Sopandev (younger brother), and Muktabai (sister).

Spiritual Contribution

Dnyaneshwar composed devotional hymns in Marathi, including the Dnyaneshwari (a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita) and the Abhanga Amrit Anubhav. He is remembered as a devotee of Vitthal (Vishnu) of Pandharpur and as a founder figure of the Varkari tradition.

Legacy and Impact

Dnyanoba’s devotional hymns continue to be recited in the Varkari tradition. He is remembered as the most important early contributor to Marathi spirituality.

Verification Notes

• “Dnyanoba” is the traditional affectionate name of Dnyaneshwar, not a separate younger brother
• Siblings: Nivruttinath, Sopandev, and Muktabai; parents: Vitthalapant and Rukmini
• Contributor to the Varkari tradition