Saint Tukdoji

Tukdoji Maharaj was borne in the village of Yawali in the Amravati district on April 30, 1909. His original name was Manik Bandoji Ingale, and his parents were Shri Bandopant and Manjulabai. His guru, Aadkoji Maharaj, renamed him Tukdoji. Tukdoji Maharaj utilized his devotional songs, speeches, discourses, poetry, and hymns to effectively spread awareness against superstitions and caste discrimination in society. His Khanjiri bhajans were particularly distinctive. He was very dedicated to rural development and progress. He believed that the development of villages would lead to the development of the nation. Tukdoji Maharaj actively participated in various activities for national welfare. He took part in the freedom struggle and was arrested in August 1942, followed by his release in December. In 1943, he organized the Vishwa Shanti Week and established the Gurudev Printing Press, publishing monthly magazine ‘the Gurudev ‘ on April 5, 1943. On November 19, 1943, he founded the All India Shri Gurudev Seva Mandal. He opened temples for Hari bhajans and kirtans, for everyone, regardless of caste. During national crises like the Bengal famine, the China war, the Pakistan war, and the Koyna earthquake, he actively participated in relief work. On March 19, 1956, he established the Gurukunj Ashram in Mozari, Amravati. Tukdoji Maharaj contributed significantly to literature in Marathi and Hindi, producing works such as Gramgeeta, Anubhavsagar, Bhajanavali, Sevaswadharma, and Rashtriya Bhajanavali. Recognizing his efforts against superstitions, caste discrimination, and his work for rural development, President Dr. Rajendra Prasad conferred upon him the title of "Rashtra Sant." Tukdoji Maharaj passed away on October 11, 1968. In his honor, Nagpur University was renamed as "Rashtra Sant Tukdoji Maharaj Nagpur University"