Tenth Peethadhish
P. P. Swami Shri Devnath Maharaj
(1753 - 1821)
Born into the Deshpande (Kamavisdar) family in Anjanigram, Swami Shri Devnath Maharaj is considered an incarnation of Lord Hanuman. He was known for his divine strength, deep intellect, and unwavering devotion.
His spiritual journey led him to perform intense penance on the banks of the Shahanoor River in Anjangaon, where he received the divine vision of Hanuman at Vari (near Akot). Guided by destiny, he briefly experienced household life before renouncing it to dedicate himself fully to spiritual practice.
Blessed by Lord Hanuman, he also received the divine vision of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. Lord Rama inscribed "Shri Ram" on his tongue, bestowing upon him the gift of poetic wisdom and eternal knowledge.
His Guru, Swami Shri Govindnath Maharaj, recognized his divine stature and performed his Pattabhisheka (spiritual coronation) at Jalna in 1779 at the Anandiswami Math.
As per his Guru’s instructions, Swami Shri Devnath Maharaj traveled extensively across India, awakening the masses through the path of devotion and spiritual enlightenment. His influence reached rulers like the Peshwas of Pune, the Shinde rulers of Gwalior, and the Bhosales of Nagpur, strengthening their bond with the Nath tradition—a relationship that continues to this day.
Later, through his own intense penance, he established Shri Nath Peeth at Anjanigram, which became renowned as Shri Devnath Math. His literary contributions include numerous hymns, discourses, and spiritual compositions, enriching the Nath tradition.
A supreme yogi, Swami Shri Devnath Maharaj took Yogagni Samadhi in 1821 at Phoolbagh, near Scindia Mahal, Gwalior. His legacy was carried forward by Swami Shri Dayalnath Maharaj, who expanded his spiritual mission.
