Remember Your True Self Shaivite Hindu Poetry of Kashmiri Saint Lal Ded laleshwari

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Lalla Ded, also known as Lalleshwari, Lalla Arifa, and Lal Ded, was a 14th-century mystic poet from the Kashmir Valley, a region known for its breathtaking natural beauty and deep spiritual traditions. She is one of the most iconic figures in the cultural and spiritual history of Kashmir, and her verses continue to resonate with people across the world. Although exact dates of her birth and death are uncertain, it is generally believed that she was born around 1320 CE and passed away sometime around 1392 CE. Her life and poetry are deeply intertwined with the spiritual traditions of both Hinduism and Islam, making her a symbol of the syncretic culture that has long existed in Kashmir. • Lalla Ded's life was a unique confluence of the rich spiritual traditions that flourished in medieval Kashmir. Born into a Hindu Brahmin family, she was married at a young age, as was customary in her time. However, her marriage was reportedly unhappy, and she soon turned to the path of spirituality, seeking solace and enlightenment beyond the confines of her domestic life. She became a disciple of a Shaivite guru, who guided her along the path of Kashmir Shaivism, a mystical tradition within Hinduism that emphasizes the recognition of the divine within oneself. • But Lalla Ded's spiritual journey did not end there. Her poetry and teachings also resonate deeply with the Sufi tradition of Islam, which was spreading through Kashmir during her lifetime. The Sufis, like the mystics of Kashmir Shaivism, sought a direct and personal experience of the divine, often transcending rigid religious boundaries. Lalla Ded’s verses reflect this transcendence, as they often speak of a universal truth that lies beyond the dualities of Hinduism and Islam. • Her poetry is so universal in its appeal that she is revered by both Hindus and Muslims in Kashmir. For Hindus, she is Lalleshwari, the wise yogini who speaks the language of the divine. For Muslims, she is Lalla Arifa, a saint whose words carry the essence of Sufi thought. This dual veneration is a testament to the deep and lasting impact of her teachings on the spiritual fabric of Kashmir. • Kashmir, known as the Paradise on Earth, has a long history of producing spiritual thinkers and poets who have left an indelible mark on the world. Lalla Ded is perhaps the most prominent of these figures, and her life and work are deeply intertwined with the culture of Kashmir. Her verses, known as Vakhs, are short, poignant statements that capture the essence of her spiritual insights. These vakhs are still recited and cherished by the people of Kashmir, and they form an integral part of the region's rich oral tradition. • Lalla Ded’s poetry reflects the landscape of Kashmir itself—its mountains, rivers, and valleys serve as metaphors for the spiritual journey. Just as the rivers of Kashmir flow through the valley, so too does the wisdom of Lalla Ded flow through the hearts of those who hear her words. Her poetry speaks to the soul, offering guidance and illumination to those who seek to understand the deeper truths of life. • Lalla Ded's poetry has been passed down through generations, preserved in the oral tradition of Kashmir. Her verses have been collected and translated into numerous languages, allowing people around the world to connect with her wisdom. The quotes you will hear in this video come from the book I Lalla: The Poems of Lal Ded by Ranjit Hoskote, a modern translation that captures the essence of her teachings. This book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in exploring Lalla Ded’s poetry in greater depth. • Lalla Ded’s legacy extends beyond her poetry. She is a symbol of the syncretic culture of Kashmir, where Hindu and Muslim traditions have coexisted and enriched each other for centuries. In a time when religious divisions are often emphasized, Lalla Ded stands as a reminder of the common spiritual heritage that unites all of humanity. Her teachings continue to inspire people to look beyond superficial differences and seek the truth within themselves. • In this video, as you listen to the verses of Lalla Ded, allow yourself to be transported to the mystical world of 14th-century Kashmir. Let her words guide you on a journey of self-discovery, helping you to peel away the layers of illusion and reconnect with your truest, most authentic self. Whether you are new to Lalla Ded’s poetry or have been a longtime admirer, these quotes offer profound insights that can illuminate your path and bring you closer to the light within. • Lalla Ded’s teachings are a gift to the world, a timeless source of wisdom that continues to resonate with those who seek the truth. By listening to her words, you are participating in a tradition that has been cherished for centuries, a tradition that invites you to rediscover who you truly are. • Works Cited • Hoskote, Ranjit. I Lalla: The Poems of Lal Ded. New York: Penguin Books, 2011. Archive.org. • #lalded #kashmirsufism #mysticism #sufism

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