Sant Bhagwan Baba – Life and Legacy
Sant Bhagwan Baba, born as Abaji Tubaji Sanap on 29 July 1896 in Supe Sawargaon, Patoda taluka of Beed district, Maharashtra, is remembered as a saint, reformer, and torchbearer of the Warkari tradition in the 20th century. He was born into a devout Vanjari family; his parents, Tubaji and Kautikabai, instilled in him the values of devotion and service from an early age.
Early Spiritual Journey
From childhood, Abaji displayed a deep inclination toward spirituality. A transformative moment came when he experienced a vision of Lord Vitthal of Pandharpur, which inspired him to dedicate his life to spiritual practice. His quest for guidance led him to Manik Baba, a respected saint who accepted him as a disciple, bestowed upon him the name Bhagwan Baba, and entrusted him with the responsibility of serving at Narayangad.
Mission and Teachings
Bhagwan Baba travelled extensively, delivering kirtans (devotional discourses) across Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and beyond. His teachings blended Bhakti (devotion), Karma (selfless action), and Jnana (spiritual wisdom). Through simple yet powerful poetry and storytelling, he addressed pressing social issues of the time—condemning caste-based discrimination, blind faith, exploitation, and outdated customs.
He did not confine his work to the spiritual domain. Bhagwan Baba encouraged education, moral living, and community service. He organized Harinaam Saptahs (week-long devotional gatherings), inspired many to join the dindi yatra (pilgrimage) to Pandharpur, and initiated welfare activities for the poor.
Establishment of Bhagwangad
A significant chapter in his life was his transformation of an old fort, historically known as Dhaumyagadh. He renovated it, turned it into a spiritual centre, and it eventually became known as Bhagwangad in his honour. The site soon became a hub for annual gatherings, especially during Dasara (Dussehra), drawing thousands of devotees. The first of these major celebrations was inaugurated in the presence of then Chief Minister Yashwantrao Chavan.
Over time, the Dasara Melava at Bhagwangad also became an important cultural and social platform. Leaders like Gopinath Munde and later Pankaja Munde have played a role in continuing this tradition.
Legacy and Passing
Sant Bhagwan Baba left his mortal body on 18 January 1965, aged 68. His passing was deeply mourned, particularly in Marathwada and among the Warkari community. Today, his memory is honoured through a grand memorial at his birthplace, annual gatherings at Bhagwangad, and the continued influence of his teachings on simplicity, equality, and devotion.
His life stands as an example of how a spiritual leader can harmoniously combine devotion to God with active work for social betterment, leaving behind not just a religious legacy but also a moral and social awakening.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Name | Abaji Tubaji Sanap |
| Date of Birth | 29 July 1896 |
| Birthplace | Supe Sawargaon, Beed district, Maharashtra |
| Guru | Sant Manik Baba |
| Key Work | Establishment of Bhagwangad, spiritual discourses, social reform |
| Known For | Blending Bhakti, Karma, and Jnana; promoting equality and education |
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