Brain Storm

Devotion knows no religion, no language. This was proved by 80 years old Jaitunbi alias Jaydas Maharaja, who hails from Baramati Taluka, Malegaon. Born to a mason, Maqbul Sayyed, Jaitunbi was acquainted to devotional songs and prayers (abhangas) of Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar by her father’s friend Hanumandas Maharajah. The philosophy and thoughts of the poets impressed Jaitunbi so much, that she went on to become a devout pilgrim (warkari). However, the path she chose to tread was no cakewalk for her. Being borne into a Muslim family, she had to shun off strict oppositions from Hindus and Muslims as well.

She was famous for her lucid preaching. She always wished to breathe her last during the annual palkhi pilgrimage. She was currently on her 62nd Pandharpur pilgrimage when she breathed her last. On Tuesday night, she had performed discourse (kirtan) at Ramoshigate in Bhavani Peth. She started having breathing problems and was treated for the same. This pilgrimage turned out to be her last pilgrimage. She bid adieu to the world on Wednesday at 7 am. She was known as ‘Akka’ amongst her followers.

She also participated in the independence movement in 1942, and used to spread awareness about the freedom struggle through her preaching. After presenting a ballad in a meeting, she was felicitated by Krantiveer Nana Patil.

Despite becoming a warkari by her own wish, she used to observe fast during Ramzaan and offer namaz everyday.

Jaitunbi is a perfect example of humanity, where she showed two different religions could be kept alive in a single heart. All you need is, to feel it deep inside!

May her soul rest in peace! Amen!

Vaibhavi V. Pradhan