Dayaram

Dayaram (1777-1853) was a prominent Gujarati poet of the Swaminarayan Sampradaya. He is considered one of the most significant figures in the history of Gujarati literature, particularly known for his garbis, devotional songs often depicting the love between Krishna and Radha.

Dayaram was born in Chanod, Gujarat, India. His early life was marked by religious devotion and a deep interest in music and poetry. He became a disciple of Swami Atmanandji, a swami in the Ramanandi tradition, who guided his spiritual and literary development. He later became associated with the Swaminarayan Sampradaya.

Dayaram's poetry is characterized by its lyrical quality, emotional depth, and devotional fervor. His garbis are widely sung and appreciated for their musicality and accessibility. They explore themes of love, devotion, and the relationship between the individual soul and the divine. His works also reflect the social and religious context of his time.

Beyond his garbis, Dayaram also composed other forms of poetry, including pad, dhola, and aakhyan. His writings are an important contribution to the development of Gujarati language and literature and continue to be celebrated today. His influence on subsequent generations of Gujarati poets is undeniable.