Eleventh Peethadhish
P. P. Swami Shri Dayalnath Maharaj
(1784 - 1837)
Swami Shri Dayalnath Maharaj was born on Vaikuntha Chaturdashi in Murtizapur, Amravati district, into the Deshmukh family. He was believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who descended on Earth to uphold dharma. Today, his birthplace is commemorated at the Vitthal Temple in Murtizapur.
Following his sacred thread ceremony, he undertook intense penance at Shri Kshetra Mahur Badrikavan, as per the divine command of Lord Dattatreya. His saintly nature—marked by kindness, simplicity, and compassion—earned him the affectionate name "Dayal" from his Guru (Shri Hari), which later became his identity as "Dayalnath."
His devotional kirtans were filled with Vedantic wisdom, devotion, and the essence of moksha (liberation). He authored an extensive body of spiritual literature. His life exemplified unwavering devotion to the Guru, selfless service to society, and a deep spiritual connection with the Divine.
Swami Shri Dayalnath Maharaj attained samadhi in Hyderabad, near the Nizam’s palace (beside the High Court) at the Hanuman temple by the river.
