

Tulsidas
16th century
'Tulsidas, the 16th-century Indian saint-poet, is best known for composing the Ramcharitmanas, a retelling of the Ramayana in Awadhi.'
Epic Poetry, Bhakti Literature
Awadhi, Sanskrit
India
The saint-poet of devotion
About the Author
Tulsidas was a revered Indian saint, poet, and philosopher whose works remain foundational to Indian spiritual and literary traditions. Born in the 16th century, he is most celebrated for composing the Ramcharitmanas, a retelling of the Sanskrit epic Ramayana in the vernacular Awadhi language. By doing so, Tulsidas made the story of Lord Rama accessible to the common people, elevating devotion (bhakti) as a central spiritual path. His verses are filled with devotion, simplicity, and profound wisdom, earning him recognition as one of India’s greatest bhakti poets. In addition to the Ramcharitmanas, Tulsidas composed hymns, philosophical treatises, and devotional songs that continue to be sung in temples and homes across India. His works not only influenced Hindu devotional practices but also shaped North Indian literature and culture. To this day, Tulsidas remains a towering figure in Indian spirituality, embodying the ideals of faith, humility, and surrender to divine love.




