Das Navami is observed as the sacred death anniversary (Punyatithi) of Samarth Ramdas Swami, one of India’s greatest saints, philosophers, and nation-builders. Revered across Maharashtra and many parts of India, he is remembered not only as a spiritual master but also as the guiding force behind Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s vision of Swarajya.
The day symbolizes devotion, discipline, strength, and patriotism. Thousands of devotees visit Sajjangad Fort, where the saint took Mahasamadhi, to offer prayers and participate in spiritual gatherings.
Here is everything you need to know about Das Navami 2026 — date, history, significance, traditions, and teachings.
When is Das Navami 2026?
According to the Hindu calendar, Das Navami falls on:
Magha Month – Krishna Paksha – Navami Tithi
In 2026, Das Navami will be celebrated on Wednesday, 11 February 2026.
This is the day when Samarth Ramdas Swami attained Mahasamadhi at Sajjangad Fort in Maharashtra.
Why is Das Navami Celebrated?
Das Navami is observed to honor the life, teachings, and spiritual contributions of Ramdas Swami.
On this day, he voluntarily left his mortal body and entered Mahasamadhi after dedicating his entire life to:
- Dharma (righteousness)
- Physical strength and discipline
- Social reform
- Nation-building
- Devotion to Lord Rama and Hanuman
He believed that society could progress only when people were mentally strong, physically fit, and spiritually awakened.
Thus, Das Navami is not just a religious observance — it is also a day of inspiration and self-improvement.
Who Was Samarth Ramdas Swami?
Samarth Ramdas Swami was a 17th-century saint, philosopher, social reformer, and nation builder from Maharashtra.
Born in 1608, his childhood name was Narayan. From an early age, he showed a deep spiritual inclination and later chose a life of renunciation and devotion.
Unlike many saints who focused only on meditation, Ramdas Swami actively worked to:
- Awaken society
- Build fearless youth
- Promote fitness and discipline
- Protect Dharma
- Guide leaders
He believed spirituality should not mean escaping life, but facing it with strength and responsibility.
Spiritual Guide of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
One of the most important aspects of his life was his connection with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
He is widely regarded as Shivaji’s spiritual guru and moral guide.
His influence included:
- Inspiring the idea of Hindavi Swarajya (self-rule)
- Encouraging protection of Dharma
- Teaching ethical leadership and justice
- Motivating courage and fearlessness
Many historians believe Ramdas Swami provided the spiritual backbone of the Maratha Empire.
Why Is Das Navami So Important in Maharashtra?
This is the most important question.
Das Navami holds special significance in Maharashtra because Samarth Ramdas Swami deeply shaped the state’s history, culture, and identity.
Here’s why:
1. His Mahasamadhi at Sajjangad
Sajjangad Fort is his final resting place and has become a major pilgrimage center where thousands gather annually.
2. Inspiration behind Shivaji’s Swarajya
His guidance helped shape the Maratha freedom movement. Many Maharashtrians consider him a spiritual architect of Swarajya.
3. Promotion of strength and discipline
He encouraged:
- Exercise
- Akhadas (gyms)
- Martial training
- Hanuman worship
This created a lasting culture of bravery and fitness.
4. Timeless scriptures still followed today
His works Dasbodh and Manache Shlok are still read in homes and temples as practical life guides.
5. Grand public celebrations
On Das Navami:
- Bhajans and kirtans are held
- Scripture recitations take place
- Charity and food donation are organized
The entire fort turns into a spiritual festival.
Dasbodh — A Timeless Guide to Life
Ramdas Swami authored the famous Marathi scripture ‘Dasbodh’.
It offers guidance on:
- Spiritual wisdom
- Self-discipline
- Leadership
- Governance
- Social responsibility
- Daily life management
Even today, it is considered a complete life manual.
He also composed ‘Manache Shlok’, which teach mind control and positive thinking.
Hanuman Devotion and Physical Strength
Ramdas Swami strongly believed that devotion without strength is incomplete.
To empower youth, he:
- Built 11 Maruti (Hanuman) temples
- Established Akhadas
- Promoted physical training
For him, Lord Hanuman symbolized power, loyalty, and service.
His message was simple:
“A strong body supports a strong mind and a strong nation.”
How is Das Navami Celebrated?
Sajjangad Fort Celebrations
Thousands visit the Samadhi to offer prayers and attend devotional programs.
Activities include:
- Bhajans and kirtans
- Dasbodh recitation
- Manache Shlok chanting
- Spiritual discourses
- Mahaprasad distribution
- Charity and Annadan
The air echoes with the chant:
“Jai Jai Raghuveer Samarth”
Teachings That Still Inspire Today
His philosophy remains highly relevant.
He emphasized:
- Hard work over laziness
- Discipline over distraction
- Strength over fear
- Service to society
- Protection of Dharma
His guiding message:
“Stay alert, abandon laziness, and always be ready to protect Dharma.”
Das Navami 2026 is a powerful reminder of the life and legacy of Samarth Ramdas Swami — a saint who combined spirituality with strength and inspired a generation to stand for righteousness.
His life teaches us:
Devotion gives direction.
Strength gives protection.
Discipline builds the nation.
Even centuries later, his message continues to inspire millions.
Jai Jai Raghuveer Samarth!
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