SANT KABIR
Early Iife: Sant Kabir (1440–1518) is one of the most revered poet-saints of India. His exact birth details are uncertain, but tradition says he was born near Varanasi (Kashi) and raised by a poor Muslim weaver couple, Niru and Nima. Some legends say he was found as a child and miraculously raised, symbolising that his message transcends caste and religion. Kabir grew up as a weaver by profession, which shaped his simple, down-to-earth style of living and speaking.
Philosophy and Teachings: Kabir believed that true devotion lies in purity of heart, not in outward appearances or rituals. He strongly criticised meaningless religious practices, superstitions, and caste discrimination. His philosophy can be summed up in a few key ideas:
God is one and formless, beyond religious labels.
Inner devotion (bhakti) is superior to rituals and traditions.
Equality of all humans, regardless of caste, creed, or profession.
A true Guru (Satguru) is essential for guiding one’s spiritual journey.
He was bold in saying that those who depend too heavily on rituals often lack true faith. A strong believer needs no outward assurance.
Kabir in Kashi: Kashi, where Kabir lived, was a major centre of religion and rituals. The Brahmins maintained a monopoly over spiritual practices, while common people were trapped in fear of God and superstitions. Kabir challenged this system.
Once, a group of Brahmins had come to the Ganga for a ceremonial bath. Kabir, who was also there with his lota (water pot), offered it to them. Horrified, they rejected it, saying his pot was “impure” because he was a weaver and of “low caste.” They even claimed that using his vessel would destroy the merit of bathing in the Ganga.
Kabir only smiled and replied:
“If the Ganga cannot purify my water pot, how can I believe it can purify me?”
With this sharp yet simple remark, Kabir taught that purity is not about caste or ritual, but about the inner self.
Kabir in Maghar: Superstitions about life and death were also deeply rooted. People believed that anyone who died in Kashi would go to heaven, while those who died in Maghar would go to hell. Kabir was born and lived in Kashi, but when his end was near, he deliberately moved to Maghar.
Through this bold act, he wanted to show that salvation does not depend on the place of death but on one’s karma (actions) and devotion. He expressed this truth in his immortal lines:
Kya Kasi kya usar Maghar, Ram hriday bas mora
Jo Kasi tan taje Kabira, Ram kaun nihora
(What is Kashi and what is barren Maghar, when Ram is in my heart?
If Kabir departs his body at Kashi, what use is my belief in Ram?)
Kabir’s Poetry: Kabir’s verses are preserved mainly in the form of dohas (couplets). Written in a simple mix of Hindi, Awadhi, and Bhojpuri, they were accessible to common people. His poetry covers themes of:
True devotion and self-realisation.
Criticism of hypocrisy in religion.
Equality of all humans.
Power of remembering God’s name (Naam).
A famous Doha illustrates his wisdom:
“Dukh mein sumiran sab kare, sukh mein kare na koi,
Jo sukh mein sumiran kare, toh dukh kahe ko hoi.”
(Everyone remembers God in sorrow, but not in happiness.
If one remembers Him in happiness, why should sorrow come?)
Kabir and the Bhakti Movement: Kabir was a central figure of the Bhakti Movement, alongside saints like Mirabai, Surdas, and Tulsidas. He belonged to the Nirguni Bhakti tradition, which believes in a formless God. His teachings created a bridge between Hindus and Muslims, promoting unity and tolerance.
Legacy: Followers of Kabir are called Kabir Panthis, and his influence is seen across India.
His verses are compiled in the Bijak, and some also appear in the Guru Granth Sahib of the Sikhs.
Kabir is remembered as a poet, philosopher, reformer, and above all, a fearless teacher.
Kabir as a Teacher: Kabir was more than a saint — he was a teacher of life. He never taught from scriptures alone, but from his fearless conviction and lived experiences. He showed:
Purity of heart is greater than rituals.
Faith should be free from fear and superstition.
God lives within every human being.
Courage is needed to stand against blind traditions.
Conclusion on Teacher’s Day: On Teacher’s Day, when we honour those who shape our lives with wisdom, it is fitting to remember Sant Kabir. His teachings remind us that a true teacher does not simply transfer knowledge, but awakens us to higher truths.
Kabir’s life and poetry continue to inspire us to think fearlessly, love sincerely, and live truthfully. Just as he lit the path for people trapped in ignorance and superstition, today’s teachers too guide students towards light, knowledge, and wisdom.
On this day, let us salute all teachers — the visible ones in our classrooms and the timeless ones like Sant Kabir — who awaken our hearts and minds.