Meera Bai (1498-1547 circa) was known to be a great Hindu poet and passionate devotee of Lord Krishna. She was regarded as one of the most significant Sants of Vaishnava Bhakti movement. She had written about 1300 poems filled with passion and praise of Lord Krishna.
Meera was a Rajput princess born in 1498 in Kudaki, in the state of Rajasthan. Though she was married to Bhoj Raj, the ruler of Chittor, she did not take any interest in her spouse because she believed herself to be married to Lord Krishna. It is believed that, she miraculously merged with the idol of Krishna in circa 1547 at the age of 49.
According to historians, Meera Bai was a disciple of Guru Ravidas. They agree with the popular beliefs which associate her with Sant Tulsidas and also her connections with Rupa Goswami in Vrindavan.
We could not find any historical record regarding the birth anniversary of Meera Bai. However, according to Hindu lunar calendar, Sharad Purnima day is observed as the birth anniversary of Meerabai.
Celebrations and Rituals:
There are no temples dedicated to Meera Bai. She is considered as an epitome of devotion. Every year, on the auspicious occasion of Meerabai’s birth anniversary, the Chittorgarh district officials along with Meera Smriti Sansthan or the Meera Memorial Trust, organise a three day long Meera Mahotsav, where eminent musicians and singers take part. The puja rituals, discussions, musical events are held during these three days. In other parts of the country, Temples of Lord Krishna organises special pujas and kirtans featuring the beautiful lyrical bhajans of Meerabai.