।। Yogiraj Shree Kalyan Swami Maharaj-Pattashishya of Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami।।
A noble soul by the name of Krushnajipant Kulkarni, belonging to Bhagur village, was born into a Deshastha Rugvedi Brahmin family of the Kaushik gotra. In the early years of his life, he entered into matrimony and was blessed with a child. However, fate dealt a cruel blow — both his wife and the child passed away within a short span, leaving him bereaved in the prime of his youth.
Deeply affected by this tragic turn of events, Krushnajipant chose to renounce worldly life. After making arrangements for the disposal of his property and household in the village, he embarked on a pilgrimage. He visited several holy places, ultimately arriving in Kolhapur, drawn by the divine presence of Shree Mahalakshmi (Ambabai). Settling there, he devoted himself to the daily worship of the Goddess and regularly recited the sacred scripture Durgasaptashati.
During his time in Kolhapur, Krushnajipant came into contact with a gentleman named Barawajipant Kulkarni, who was residing in the city. Barawajipant was concerned about the marriage of his sister. Through divine providence, the two men met, and Krushnajipant consented to marry Barawajipant’s sister, Rakhmabai. However, he made it known that he would resume his pilgrimage after some time.
In accordance with these wishes, the marriage of Krushnajipant and Rakhmabai was solemnized. With the divine blessings of Shree Mahalakshmi of Kolhapur, the couple was blessed with a son, who was named Ambaji, believed to have been born around the year 1636. A second son was later born to them, who was named Dattatreya. It is also referenced in some sources that the couple had a daughter, though detailed records of her are sparse.
After spending some years in family life, Krushnajipant once again set forth on his spiritual journey. In the later stages of his life, he took Sannyasa (ascetic vows) in Kashi (Varanasi). Following this, there are no further historical records of him. Eventually, his sons and their mother, Rakhmabai, returned to the home of her brother, Barawajipant.
The Beginning of a Divine Bond: Kalyan Swami and Samarth Ramdas
Around the year 1645, after twelve long years of tireless travel and pilgrimage across the sacred land of Bharat, Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami returned to his karmabhoomi — the land chosen for his life's mission. His extensive spiritual journey had culminated in a resolute purpose: Dharmasansthapana — the re-establishment and revitalization of Dharma, or righteousness.
Upon his return, Shree Samarth began delivering spiritual discourses across the region, guiding society back to the path of Dharma. His profound wisdom, unwavering asceticism, mastery of scriptures, and captivating oratory drew large gatherings to his kirtans (spiritual discourses). One such spiritual congregation was held in Kolhapur, where many devoted listeners gathered to hear his divine message.
Among those present was Barawajipant Kulkarni, a noble and devout man. Deeply moved by Shree Samarth’s presence and teachings, he resolved to become his disciple. With utmost humility, he requested the revered saint to accept him. Shree Samarth, after a moment of contemplation, agreed to bestow his anugrah (spiritual grace) upon him.
On the auspicious day of initiation, Shree Samarth visited Barawajipant’s residence. The home radiated sanctity — festoons adorned the entrance, rangolis graced the floors, and a spirit of divine celebration filled the air. Overwhelmed with devotion and joy, Barawajipant welcomed the saint, who then formally initiated him into discipleship, blessing him with his spiritual grace.
Following the tradition of Guru Dakshina — an offering of gratitude to the Guru — Barawajipant insisted on giving something in return. But the saint, who saw no difference between gold and dust, declined any material offerings. However, moved by the disciple's sincerity, he finally spoke:
“If you truly wish to offer something, then give me Ambaji — let him serve in the cause of Shreeram.”
Shree Samarth had perceived the divine markings of a yogi on the young Ambaji’s body — signs not just of this lifetime, but of many births. He recognized this evolved soul from across lifetimes. Beyond his noble character, Ambaji’s beautiful handwriting and quiet determination caught the saint’s eye. He saw in him a worthy sevak (devotee) and a steadfast companion for his divine mission.
When Shree Samarth asked for Ambaji as Guru Dakshina, Barawajipant looked toward his sister — Ambaji’s mother. With calm strength and unwavering devotion, she responded:
“Why only Ambaji? Even younger Dattatreya and I have been participants in this Ramkarya.”
That mother, Rakhmabai, was no ordinary woman. Her words revealed a spirit rooted in sacrifice and spiritual resolve — a mother truly made of divine grain.
From that moment forward, Ambaji, his younger brother Dattatreya, and their mother joined Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami on his spiritual travels. During the course of their journey, Shree Samarth instructed Dattatreya Swami to remain at Shirgaon, entrusting him with spiritual responsibilities there.
Dattatreya Swami, known for his melodious voice and devotional singing, took charge of leading bhajans in praise of the Divine. Over time, he became the Mahant (spiritual head) of the math (monastery) at Shirgaon near Satara. Unlike his elder brother, he embraced the householder's path. A handwritten manuscript of Dasbodh by Dattatreya Swami was later found in Gwalior, where his descendant, Aba Maharaj, established a math around 1853 — one that continues to this day.
Yet it was Ambaji alone who remained in the direct service of Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami. That fateful meeting transformed him forever. In time, he came to be known as Kalyan Swami — a towering figure of spiritual strength, unwavering dedication, and fearless devotion. His life became the embodiment of loyalty to the Guru, and many tales are told of his courage, grace, and immense service — all born from that sacred moment of surrender at the feet of Shree Samarth.
Ambaji: The Embodiment of Ideal Discipleship
From a tender age, Ambaji had dedicated himself completely to the service of Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami, the revered saint of Maharashtra. His unwavering devotion, quiet discipline, and inner purity deeply pleased his Guru, who recognized in him a rare and radiant spiritual potential.
Ambaji’s heart was filled with intense devotion for Lord Shree Rama. His soul constantly longed for the darshan — the divine vision — of the Lord. Shree Samarth, with his profound spiritual insight, was well aware of this sacred yearning. He saw in Ambaji a prepared vessel — one shaped by steadfast faith and rigorous self-discipline — ready to receive divine grace.
Immersed in seva (selfless service), Ambaji performed every duty for his Guru with humility and reverence. No task was beneath him, and no hardship deterred him. Recognizing the strength of his disciple’s spirit, Shree Samarth often tested Ambaji through trials that demanded complete surrender, endurance, and faith. Whether faced with fatigue, difficult circumstances, or intense responsibility, Ambaji never faltered. His devotion remained unshaken, and his service, wholehearted.
Over time, his unwavering loyalty, relentless dedication, and unflinching obedience earned him a place of singular honor in the saint’s inner circle. Ambaji came to be known not only as the most beloved of Shree Samarth’s disciples, but as the very embodiment of ideal discipleship — a shining beacon of what it means to walk the spiritual path in total surrender to the Guru.
1) The Divine Test: How Ambaji Became Shree Kalyan Swami
In time, Ambaji came to be revered as Shree Kalyan Swami, a name that symbolized the divine grace, auspiciousness, and spiritual merit that defined his life. The pivotal moment that led to this sacred renaming took place in the village of Masur, in the Satara district of Maharashtra, during the auspicious celebration of Ramnavami — the birth festival of Lord Shree Ram.
As part of the festivities, Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami had organized a grand Rathayatra — a chariot procession carrying the sacred image of Lord Shree Ram. However, along the planned route stood a large tree with a branch that arched dangerously over a deep well, obstructing the path. Shree Samarth, with divine foresight, recognized that the time had come for Ambaji to be granted the supreme blessing — the darshan of the Lord. He devised a test that would serve as the gateway to that divine encounter.
Meanwhile, as Ambaji plummeted down the well, his heart cried out in intense longing for Lord Shree Ram. In that moment of surrender, a miracle unfolded. Just before hitting the bottom, the waters and debris vanished — and there, in a blaze of divine radiance, stood Lord Shree Ram Himself, arms outstretched.
Ambaji found himself gently caught and embraced by the Lord. Overcome with ecstasy, he prostrated at the Lotus Feet of the Divine, tears flowing from his eyes. The Lord smiled with infinite compassion and love, showering him with grace beyond imagination.
Witnessing this sacred moment, the disciples were filled with awe and reverence. From that day forward, Ambaji was no longer just a disciple — he was Kalyan, the blessed one, the auspicious one, whose life had been touched by the hand of the Divine.
Thus was born Shree Kalyan Swami, one of the foremost and most beloved disciples of Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami — a living embodiment of faith, obedience, and total surrender. His life stands as a timeless inspiration for all seekers walking the path of devotion and truth, reminding us that when faith in the Guru is absolute, the Lord Himself appears to hold us in His embrace.
2) Samarth Suffering from Pain
3) "O Kalyan,Shawl flown away!"
Once, Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami was wandering around the surroundings of Fort Sajjangad along with his devoted disciple, Shree Kalyan Swami. As they walked, a strong gust of wind suddenly blew across the fort, lifting and carrying away the shawl worn by Samarth Ramdas Swami.
Samarth Swami exclaimed, “O Kalyan, the shawl has flown away!”
Without a moment's hesitation, Shree Kalyan Swami leapt from the top of the fort into the air in an attempt to retrieve his Master's shawl. Miraculously, he caught it mid-air. The spot where he landed is now commemorated and revered as the Shree Kalyan Swami Temple.
Out of pure devotion and unwavering faith in his Master's lotus feet, Shree Kalyan Swami risked his life to protect a piece of his Master's clothing from falling into the dirt.
This sacred site can still be visited today at Sajjangad. It is known as the Kalyan Chhati Smarak.
4 )Shree Kalyan Swami practices what the holy books teach.
Meanwhile, the other disciples spent their days studying the scriptures, learning from Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami through questions, answers, and deep discussions. Despite this, Shree Kalyan Swami was their Guru’s favorite—a fact that puzzled and somewhat upset the other disciples. They couldn't understand why someone who barely participated in the studies was held in such high regard.
Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami, being aware of their thoughts, decided to teach them a lesson. One day, during a session with the disciples, he posed a very difficult question. None of them could answer it. Just then, Shree Kalyan Swami happened to pass by. The Guru called him over and asked him the same question—and to everyone’s surprise, Shree Kalyan Swami gave the correct answer.
Amazed, the other disciples asked, “How is this possible? Kalyan Swami hardly ever studies with us. How could he answer such a difficult question?”
Shree Ramdas Swami calmly replied, “He is the only one who truly practices what the holy scriptures teach. Every day, he performs his satseva with full devotion, with the pure attitude (bhaav) that he is doing it for God Himself. Mere intellectual knowledge of the scriptures is not enough.”
Hearing this, the disciples understood their mistake. While they were proud of their knowledge, it was Shree Kalyan Swami’s deep love and devotion for God that made him truly wise. Through that pure devotion, God Himself spoke through him.
5 )When Shree Samarth took a sword....
6)Shree Kalyan Swami' devotion.
About a month later, Shree Kalyan Swami returned to Sajjangad after completing some writing work. Without hesitation, he went straight to his Guru. Despite hearing about the threat, Shree Kalyan Swami fearlessly bowed before his Guru.
Moved by his disciple’s unwavering faith and love, Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami immediately threw away the sword and embraced Kalyan Swami, declaring, “He alone is my true follower.”
7)Snake bits to Shree Kalyan Swami .
As he walked through the forest, he accidentally stepped on a black snake, which turned and bit him. Shree Kalyan Swami collapsed and fell unconscious.
When Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami saw that Kalyan Swami had not returned for a long time, he became concerned and went out to search for him. He found Kalyan Swami lying unconscious on the ground. With deep concern, Ramdas Swami prayed to Shree Bhairavnath, a deity, for Kalyan’s well-being. Then, running his hand over Kalyan Swami’s body from head to toe, he gently said, “Kalyan, arise.” Miraculously, Shree Kalyan Swami regained consciousness and stood up, ready to continue his mission. But Ramdas Swami stopped him, saying the leaves were no longer needed.
Shree Kalyan Swami was the most distinguished disciple of Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami and the Mahant of the Domgaon Math. He is mentioned more frequently in records than any other disciple. All accounts agree on his extraordinary devotion, and it is said that Shree Ramdas Swami trusted him more than anyone else.
Shree Kalyan Swami spent 33 years—between 1645 and 1678—in close service to Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami. Though Ramdas Swami had many disciples, Shree Kalyan Swami was his foremost and most beloved.
8) Shree Kalyan Swami's unwavering devotion to his Guru:
One
day, when Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami ventured into the forest without partaking
his meal, it was Saint Kalyan Swami who took it upon himself to ensure his
Guru's well-being. Despite the passage of time and the descent of dusk, Shree
Kalyan Swami remained steadfast in his resolve to find his revered Guru.
Gathering
food and tying it securely in a cloth, Saint Kalyan Swami embarked on a
determined quest through the wilderness. His journey led him to the formidable
Koyana river, swollen with floodwaters. Undeterred by the raging currents,
Saint Kalyan Swami fearlessly plunged into the waters and swam across, driven
by his unwavering devotion to his Guru.
Pressing
onward through the dense forest, Saint Kalyan Swami encountered two individuals
carrying torches in the darkness. With their guidance, he finally located Shree
Samarth Ramdas Swami. In this moment of reunion, Saint Kalyan Swami's heart
overflowed with joy and reverence for his beloved Guru.
Shree
Samarth Ramdas Swami, deeply moved by Saint Kalyan Swami's selfless
determination and devotion, expressed immense pleasure at his disciple's
unwavering commitment.
This
incident stands as a testament to Saint Kalyan Swami's unwavering devotion and
tireless dedication to serving his Guru. His exemplary life journey continues
to inspire devotees, urging them to emulate his profound love and commitment in
their own spiritual quests. Saint Kalyan Swami's unwavering devotion remains a
guiding light for seekers on the path of spiritual enlightenment.
*Writer of Shree Samarth Ramdas :
Shree Kalyan Swami remained in the service of Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami from 1645 to 1678. During these 33 years, he not only assisted in supervising the other disciples and managing the various maths (spiritual centers), but also took on the vital responsibility of preserving his Guru’s teachings.
Throughout this period, Shree Kalyan Swami meticulously transcribed a vast collection of Samarth Ramdas Swami’s poems, discourses, and scriptures. Among their most significant collaborative efforts was the composition of Dasbodh, completed at Shivthar Ghal. This spiritual masterpiece, considered the most important scripture of the Samarth sect, was narrated by Shree Ramdas Swami and written down by Shree Kalyan Swami. The text takes the form of a dialogue between guru (teacher) and shishya (disciple), offering profound spiritual and practical guidance.
It is said that Shree Kalyan Swami was once able to transcribe the entire Dasbodh in a single night. He also compiled other works such as Manache Shlok and more. In total, over 7,751 verses of the Dasbodh were recorded in his clean, elegant handwriting.
To this day, 250 of his handwritten manuscripts are preserved at the Samarth Vagdevata Mandir in Dhule. Shree Kalyan Swami was extremely careful with his writings—he would fold the papers neatly, wrap them in square pieces of silk, and tie them with silk thread for safekeeping. He always carried with him a shoulder bag containing paper sheets, a fountain pen, and ink pots of various colors.
His manuscripts are not only preserved but also worshipped at the Domgaon Math, which was under his spiritual care. In addition to recording Ramdas Swami’s compositions, Shree Kalyan Swami also compiled and preserved many holy songs and spiritual texts, and he is recognized as the author of several books associated with his Guru's teachings.
In 1678, Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami instructed Shree Kalyan Swami to go to Domgaon to carry out the divine work of Lord Ram. Obeying his Guru’s command, Shree Kalyan Swami established a math (spiritual center) in the village of Domgaon.
His unwavering loyalty to Samarth Ramdas Swami was demonstrated not only through his acts of self-sacrifice but also through his tireless efforts to spread his Guru’s teachings. The Domgaon Math became a major center of spiritual influence and a hub for the Samarth sect. Shree Kalyan Swami gathered around him a group of devoted disciples who were inspired by the same ideals of service, devotion, and discipline.
During his 36 years of residence at Domgaon, disciples and seekers from far and wide came to the math to seek his guidance and spiritual counsel. Under his leadership, more than 250 maths were established across Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh, helping to spread the teachings and philosophy of Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami throughout the region.
Shree Kalyan Swami’s efforts played a crucial role in carrying forward the spiritual legacy of his Guru and establishing a strong foundation for the Samarth tradition that continues to this day.
*Disciples:
The Disciples and Literary Legacy of Shree Kalyan Swami
Shree Kalyan Swami did not compose a large number of poems himself, but he greatly encouraged his disciples to express their devotion through writing. Among them was a disciple named Samaraj Kalyan, who composed poems in praise of Shree Rama and Shree Kalyan Swami.
Another notable disciple was Shivram, associated with the Apachanda Math near Gulbarga. He is known to have made several handwritten copies of the sacred text Dasbodh. While he also composed some poetry of his own, his lasting contribution lies in being part of a spiritual lineage that included Atmaram, the author of a monumental biographical work on Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami titled 'Das Vishramdham'—a text comprising approximately 16,000 verses. This revered succession is recorded as: Ramdas, Kalyan, Shivram, Ramchandra, and Atmaram.
Another of Shree Kalyan Swami’s disciples, Shama, possessed a remarkable literary talent. Four of his poems have been discovered—two praising his Sadguru (spiritual master), and two dedicated to Shree Kalyan Swami.
Among his other prominent disciples was Annaji Bhalkikar, who served as the Mahant of the Bhatambare Math. He remained unmarried and passed away due to cholera while returning from a pilgrimage to Pandharpur, a sacred town for devotees of Lord Vithoba.
The vast spiritual influence of Shree Kalyan Swami is evident from the fact that forty-three Mahants were personally trained and initiated by him. These disciples went on to lead various maths and continue the spiritual mission of Samarth Ramdas Swami.
- Mudgal Swami-Successor Domgaon Math
- Jagannath Swami-Tadawale Math
- Keshav Swami-Umbraj Math
- Ramjibova Baramatikar
- Haribova Bhoomkar
- Purushottam Swami
- Ramajiboova Pangari Math
*Literature:
- Soliv Sukh
- Mahavakya Panchikaran
- Dhruv Aakhyan
- Rukmini Swayamvar
According to ancient scriptures like Dasvishramdham, Shree Kalyan Swami was regarded as a ‘Yog-bhrashta’ ascetic. This concept is explained in the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 6, Verse 41):
प्राप्य पुण्यकृतां लोकानुषित्वा शाश्वती: समा: ।
शुचीनां श्रीमतां गेहे योगभ्रष्टोऽभिजायते ।। 41।।
Shree Kalyan Swami was not only spiritually advanced but also a disciplined yogi. He was renowned for performing numerous yogic practices daily and was widely respected in the Ramdasi sect and among devotees as ‘Yogiraj’—the king of yogis. His sketch or image is often depicted in the Yogamudra of Garbhasana (a deep yogic posture), symbolizing his mastery in yoga.
He is said to have practiced 1,200 Surya Namaskars (sun salutations) daily, reflecting his unmatched dedication and physical discipline. Every day, he would carry large copper pots filled with water from the Urmodi River to bathe his Guru, Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami. These very copper pots are still preserved and can be seen at Sajjangad.
Shree Kalyan Swami had a strong and well-built physique. His appearance reflected his ascetic lifestyle—he wore kundals (earrings), was smeared with bhasma (sacred ash), and wore mudrika (spiritual rings).
It was also his custom to gather his disciples and narrate the life story of Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami. As the closest disciple, he offered a deeper and more heartfelt interpretation of his Guru’s life than many others. The result of this devotion and insight is seen in the four-volume work that preserves his recollections—bringing a unique spiritual flavor and authenticity that is sometimes missing from other accounts. His narration provides a first-hand, intimate perspective of Samarth Ramdas Swami’s life, legacy, and teachings.
At the same time, Shree Kalyan Swami, the most devoted disciple of Ramdas Swami, left his earthly body through Yogbal (yogic power) at Paranda. After narrating the holy Ramkatha (the story of Lord Ram), he assumed the Garbhasana yogic posture and entered into Samadhi (a deep meditative state), ultimately attaining Mahasamadhi—the conscious departure from the body by a realized yogi.
His final rites took place at Domgaon, near Paranda, on the banks of the Seena River. When Shree Keshav Swami, en route to Kashi, stopped at Domgaon and heard of the saint’s passing, he was deeply moved. In a symbolic and touching gesture, the ashes of both Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami and Shree Kalyan Swami were carried together to Kashi.
There, in the holy waters of the Ganga River, Shree Keshav Swami immersed the ashes of both the Guru and his most faithful disciple—a final, eternal union of their spiritual journey. It was a moment of profound significance and devotion, symbolizing that even in death, the disciple remained inseparable from his Guru.
Shree Kalyan Swami left his mortal body on Adhik Ashadha Shuddha Trayodashi in 1714 A.D., at Paranda in present-day Dharashiv (Osmanabad) district.
His Punyatithi (death anniversary) is observed every year at Domgaon, Osmanabad, on the 13th day of the waxing moon (Trayodashi) during the month of Ashadha, as per the Marathi lunar calendar (Ashadha Shukla Paksha Trayodashi Tithi). This day marks the remembrance of a great saint whose unwavering devotion and yogic discipline made him one of the foremost disciples of Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami.
The Samadhi Temple of Shree Kalyan Swami at Domgaon is over 250 years old and holds immense historical and spiritual significance. Located approximately 14 miles from Kurduwadi, this math (monastic center) houses several precious relics that are deeply revered by devotees of the Samarth sect.
Among the most treasured items is an original handwritten copy of the Dasbodh, which was dictated by Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami and meticulously scribed by Shree Kalyan Swami himself. This copy is said to have been personally corrected by Samarth Ramdas Swami. Additionally, there exists another version of the Dasbodh written by Shree Keshav Swami, a devoted disciple of Kalyan Swami and later the Mahant of Umbraj math.
Within the math, one can also find the idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Maruti (Hanuman), gifted by Samarth Ramdas Swami to Keshav Swami. Other sacred artifacts preserved here include:
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A piece of the red blanket worn by Shree Keshav Swami
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His betel-nut pouch, worn and aged with use
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A pair of wooden sandals, believed to have belonged to Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami
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A chanting mala (rosary) used in devotion
The tomb (Samadhi) of Shree Kalyan Swami was constructed in 1773, 59 years after he attained Mahasamadhi. It is located in a serene and beautiful setting. Inscribed on the Samadhi are sacred Sanskrit verses that reflect deep spiritual wisdom. Their translations are as follows:
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"O Ramdas, let goodness, happiness, and joy be shared by all. True happiness comes from defeating inner enemies and overcoming suffering."
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"The Guru’s idol is the source of meditation; the Guru’s feet are the object of worship; the Guru’s words are mantras; the Guru’s grace grants liberation."
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"Whatever you eat, offer, give, or do; whatever penance you perform, O Arjuna, do it as an offering to Me. Where Krishna and Arjuna are present, there success and prosperity surely follow."
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"Residence in Kashi (Benares), the water of the sacred Ganges, and devotion to Lord Shankara—these all lead to liberation."
This Samadhi Mandir stands as a timeless symbol of Shree Kalyan Swami’s unwavering devotion to his Guru and his immense contribution to the legacy of the Samarth sect.
Kalyan Sagar Dam
The Kalyan Sagar Dam is situated near the village of Domgaon on the Seena River. It is a location of serene beauty, surrounded by lush nature. The temple of Shree Kalyan Swami, one of the most devoted followers of Shree Samarth Ramdas Swami, is nestled at this scenic spot, with water encircling the temple from three sides. The area is also known for the migratory birds that visit the region, adding to the charm of the place. The backwater of the dam extends up to the village of Sonari.
How to Reach:
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The nearest railway station is Kurduwadi.
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Regular state transport buses operate from Barshi, Osmanabad, and Solapur to Paranda.
Distance:
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9 km from Paranda
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22 km from Kurduwadi
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30 km from Barshi
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80 km from Osmanabad
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95 km from Solapur
khup sundar mahiti. Kalyan swaminchya maruti chitraachi colour copy prakashit karu shakta ka?
उत्तर द्याहटवा