Devayat Pandit was a renowned saint-poet of Gujarat, who earned a special place in people’s hearts through his prophetic verses and devotional hymns. Born in the 15th century in Vanthali village of Junagadh district, Gujarat, his life and work hold a significant place in the religious and cultural history of Gujarat.
Birth and Childhood
Devayat Pandit was born into a middle-class family. His parents were devout and cultured, and their influence is clearly visible in his life. From childhood, Devayat was drawn to religion and devotion. His father served as a priest in the village and attended to saints, which became a source of inspiration for Devayat.
His parents passed away when he was young, but this tragedy further strengthened his devotion. He continued to uphold his parents’ values and served saints with dedication.
Caste and Identity
There are differing opinions about Devayat Pandit’s caste. Some consider him a Brahmin, while others identify him as a Maldhari saint. Dr. Dalpat Shrimali’s research suggests that Devayat Pandit was born into the Meghwal community and was associated with the Mahapanth-Margi sect. However, his work and devotion are far more significant than his caste.
Meeting with the Guru
Devayat Pandit accompanied saints to the Tarnetar fair, where he met a saint named Shobhaji. Under Shobhaji’s influence, Devayat’s mind turned toward renunciation. While wandering in Girnar, he experienced many spiritual insights, which concluded after his meeting with Shobhaji.
Shobhaji advised Devayat that spreading religion while living as a householder would be more effective. Accepting this guidance, Devayat went to Kashi, where he studied scriptures and earned the title of “Pandit.”
Youth and Married Life
After receiving higher education in Kashi, Devayat Pandit returned to his homeland and married a virtuous woman named Devalde. While living as a householder, he continued his religious activities and established an ashram in the Panchal region. People visited his ashram to receive religious teachings and guidance.
Devalde was also a devout and dedicated woman who supported her husband in all his endeavors. Over time, Devayat Pandit’s fame grew, but so did his pride.
Self-Reflection and Transformation
Due to his pride, Devayat Pandit once doubted Devalde’s character. Devalde, a self-respecting and patient woman, could not bear this insult and left her husband’s home. This incident prompted Devayat to realize his mistake.
The event led him to introspect, and he progressed further on the spiritual path. He renounced pride and ego, embracing the path of service and devotion.
Prophetic Verses and Predictions
Devayat Pandit is renowned for his prophetic hymns. He made predictions about future events and incarnations, particularly writing about the immaculate incarnation of Lord Krishna. His hymns share many similarities with the prophetic verses of Mamaidev, a religious leader of the Meghwal community.
Devayat Pandit’s Prophetic Verses:
Devayat Pandit speaks of signs, listen, O virtuous Devalde,
Our Guru has foretold prophecies, not a single one is false,
What is written and predicted will come to pass.
First, the winds will blow fiercely, rivers will run dry,
From the west, the Lord will arrive, chanting heroic hymns.
On earth, chaos will reign, cities will lie desolate,
Wealth will be looted, and people’s cries will go unheard.
The era of sin has arrived, the earth demands its toll,
Some will perish by the sword, others by disease.
False books, false waters, false are the clerics’ decrees,
The true heir will wear the crown, such are the signs of prophecy.
In the lake of pebbles, tents will be pitched, across a hundred villages’ borders,
The virtuous will shine beautifully, alongside Arjun and Bhim.
The chaste, the virtuous, and the Sabarmati will witness the warriors’ battle,
From the western lands, the Lord will come, the soul of our era.
He will defeat the dark forces, bearing an immaculate name,
Ending the Kali Yuga, establishing the Satya Yuga, bearing an immaculate name,
Devayat Pandit has spoken, these are the signs of prophecy.
His prophecies are considered relevant even today and continue to guide people’s lives.
Contribution to Literature
Devayat Pandit’s contribution to Gujarati literature is significant. His hymns and prophetic verses are popular, and he is regarded as a saint-poet. He promoted the principles of religion, devotion, and humanity.
His Samadhi
Devayat Pandit’s samadhi is located in Bajkot village near Modasa, where people visit to seek his blessings. It is believed that his prophecies and predictions continue to prove true even today.
Conclusion
Devayat Pandit’s life story is an inspiring tale that promotes the values of spirituality, devotion, and humanity. His life establishes a balance between worldly and spiritual pursuits.
Update as of July 31, 2025: Devayat Pandit’s prophetic verses continue to resonate in Gujarat’s cultural and religious circles. Recent studies highlight his contributions to Gujarati literature and his role in shaping the spiritual narrative of the Meghwal community, with his samadhi site gaining prominence as a pilgrimage destination.
