Soyrabai

Soyrabai (14th century) was a Marathi saint-poet from the Mahar caste and the wife and disciple of the saint Chokhamela.

Background

Soyarabai belonged to the Mahar community of 14th-century Maharashtra. She was the wife of Chokhamela, the famed untouchable saint of Pandharpur, and undertook the annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur with him, facing harassment from orthodox Brahmins while keeping her faith and equanimity.

Spiritual Contribution

Soyrabai composed devotional abhangas (hymns) in Marathi expressing her love for Vithoba; about 62 of her verses are known. She addressed the injustice of untouchability and taught that the body may be “impure” by social convention but the soul is ever pure. Her poetry is known for its emotional depth and devotional intensity.

Legacy and Impact

Soyrabai’s abhangas are part of the Varkari tradition’s repertoire and continue to be recited. She is remembered — with Chokhamela and their son Karmamela — as an important voice of the Dalit bhakti tradition in Marathi spirituality.

Verification Notes

• Wife and disciple of Chokhamela, Mahar caste, 14th century (per Wikipedia)
• Composed devotional abhangas (about 62 known)
• Voice against untouchability; important female figure in Marathi bhakti