तुम बिन कौन भक्त प्रतिपालै ।…..
– O Lord, without You, who else will protect Your devotees?
Shri Surdas Ji
Words That Touch the Soul
Shri Surdas Ji’s poetry is filled with unique expressions and melodious rhymes, enriched with beautiful alliterations. Each letter and word is placed with remarkable precision, creating an enchanting rhythm that captivates the soul.
From the very beginning of his verses, the love he expresses remains constant until the end, flowing seamlessly like a sacred river. His words carry an extraordinary harmony, blending rhymes in a way that feels divine.
Blessed by the grace of the Lord, Shri Surdas Ji was gifted with a divine vision, allowing him to witness the divine pastimes of the Lord, which became forever imprinted in his heart.
It was this divine vision that inspired him to sing of the Lord’s pastimes, qualities and forms with his tongue. Those who listen to the qualities of the Lord, as sung by Shri Surdas Ji, their intellect becomes purified and filled with pure qualities.
There will be hardly any person who does not shake his head in admiration after listening to the poetry of Shri Surdas Ji.
Birth and The Lineage Tradition
Shri Surdas Ji himself described his lineage in a verse from Sahitya Lahiri. He tells of a remarkable event in which a divine child was born from the sacred fire of a Yagya (fire sacrifice) performed by Maharaj Prithu. This extraordinary child was named Brahmarao.
“Pratham Prithu Yaag Tein Bhe Pragat Adbhut Roop.Brahmarav Vichaari Brahma Raakhu Naam Anoop.”
– From the Yagya (fire sacrifice) of Maharaj Prithu, a divine child appeared who was named Bramhrao.
Brahmarao became a Brahmana by appearing in the lineage of Shri Prithu Ji.
Later in the lineage of Brahmarao, there was a mighty and courageous ruler, King Chand, who ruled over Jwaladesh.
It was within this lineage that, in the year 1478, Surdhwaj—later known as Shri Surdas Ji—was born, who was blind since birth.
Child Surdhwaj's Escape from Home
The moment Surdhwaj (later known as Shri Surdas Ji) was born, his father’s heart sank. The child was blind. As he gazed at his newborn son, sorrow filled his mind.
He wondered who would take care of such a son for life. This thought haunted him, turning joy into despair.
Years passed, and Surdhwaj turned six. A generous king gifted his Brahmin father two gold coins. Returning home with happiness, he thought, At least this will cover the year’s groceries.
There was nothing to eat at home. At night, the father carefully tied the gold coins in a cloth and placed them in a corner of the house, hoping they would bring some relief in the morning.
At midnight, however, rats dragged the tied cloth away. In the morning, the coins were gone. The father, now even more devastated, sighed deeply, thinking that ever since the birth of this unfortunate son, all happiness and peace had vanished.
But then, something unexpected happened. Surdhwaj, spoke with confidence.
“I know where the coins are,” he said. “But if I tell you, you must promise to let me leave this house forever.”
The family barely hesitated. What use was a blind son, they thought. They only cared about the gold coins. Without a second thought, they agreed to his demand.
Surdhwaj then pointed toward the roof. “The cloth is in a hole up there,” he said.
His father climbed up to check. To his astonishment, the boy was right. The cloth, along with the precious coins, lay hidden in a hole.
At that moment, something shifted in the family’s heart. Until now, they had seen Surdhwaj as nothing more than a burden. But now, they realized—he may have been born without sight, but he possessed something far greater: divine vision.
They no longer wanted him to leave. They tried to stop him. But Surdhwaj had made up his mind. Without looking back, he stepped out of the house, walking toward a life that would one day make his name immortal.
The Rise of Shri Sur Swami
The young Surdhwaj reached and sat beneath a tree, resting at a distance from the village.
At that time, the village head was desperately searching for his lost cow, wandering from one field to another without success. Observing this, the blind boy (Surdhwaj), gifted with divine vision, located the cow.
Amazed by this, the village head was overwhelmed with gratitude. The landlord was pleased, he built a small hut for Surdhwaj and even appointed a servant to care for him.
Settling into his new hut, Surdhwaj began singing hymns with deep devotion. His voice carried through the village, and soon, whispers of his miraculous abilities spread.
People, burdened with sorrows, started visiting him, seeking guidance and solace. The once-small hut expanded into a large house, as more and more followers gathered. His miracles became the talk of the town, and his name echoed far and wide.
With his growing influence, many became his followers, adorning themselves with his sacred rosary. He was no longer just Surdhwaj—he was now revered as ‘Sur Swami.’
From the age of 6 to 18, he remained in that place.
But one night, a thought gripped his heart. I set out to seek God, yet here I am, entangled in material attachments. A deep sense of detachment overwhelmed him. He realized that he had become trapped in Maya (illusion).
Determined to walk the true path of devotion, he called his parents through a follower and handed over all the wealth, property, and possessions that had accumulated in his name. Keeping only the clothes on his back, he walked away from everything he had built.
His journey led him to Mathura’s Vishram Ghat. But he knew that if he remained close to the colony, his name would spread, and once again, he would be caught in worldly distractions.
So, seeking solitude and devotion, he settled in the village of Ronakta between Mathura and Agra, at Gau Ghat.
There, he dedicated himself entirely to singing the glory of the Lord. Every Night Bhajans and prayers began there. Soon, his fame spread once more, and Gau Ghat transformed into a revered pilgrimage site.
When Shri Surdas Ji Met Shri Mahaprabhu
One day, Mahaprabhu Shri Vallabhacharya Ji arrived at Gau Ghat from Adail, Prayag.
After taking a holy bath, he offered his respects to the Sun God and then began preparing food for the Lord.
At that moment, a servant hurried to Shri Surdas Ji with exciting news.
“Mahaprabhu Shri Vallabhacharya has arrived nearby,” he said. “He has defeated many scholars and led them onto the path of devotion to Shri Krishna.”
Hearing this, Surdas Ji said, “Go there,” he instructed the servant, “sit quietly and observe from a distance. The moment Mahaprabhu finishes his prasad and takes his seat, come and inform me. Then, I will go to meet him.”
The servant did as he was told. He watched as Mahaprabhu prepared food and offered it to Shri Krishna. After some time, he ate the prasad, after which he sat on his seat. The servant rushed back and narrated everything to Surdas Ji.
Without wasting a moment, Surdas Ji set out to meet Shri Mahaprabhu Ji. Upon reaching, he humbly sat behind all the other disciples. But Shri Mahaprabhu Ji noticed him and called out, “Surdas, come sit here.”
Surdas Ji moved forward and sat near Shri Mahaprabhu Ji, who then said, “Sur, describe something about the Lord.”
“As you wish,” Surdas Ji replied, and then, with deep devotion, he began to sing:
(Raag Dhanashri)
Hon Hari Sab Patitanko Nayak.
Ko Karisake Barabar Meri Itane Maankon Laayak. [1]
Jo Tum Ajaamelison Kini Jo Paati Likhpaoon.
Hoy Vishvas Bhalau Jiy Apanen Aur Patit Bulaoon. [2]
Simite Jahaan Tahaante Sab Kou Aayjure Ik Thaur.
Abake Itanen Aani Milaoon Ber Dusari Aur. [3]
Hodaahodi Manhulaas Karikare Paapabhari Pet.
Sabahin Le Paayan Tariparihon Yahi Hamaari Bhent. [4]
Aisi Kitaneek Banaoon Praanpati Sumaran Hai Bhayau Aadau.
Abaki Ver Nivaar Leu Prabhu Soor Patitko Thaadau. [5]
– O Sri Hari, I am the supreme of all fallen beings….
The mesmerizing verses filled the air, and Shri Mahaprabhu Ji listened intently. After the poem ended, Shri Mahaprabhu Ji said, “sing something else.”
And so, Surdas Ji sang again:
(Raag Dhanashri)
Prabhu Mein Sab Patitan Kotikau.
Aur Patit Sab Dyausachaariken Mein Ta Janmataheekau. [1]
Badhik Ajaamili Ganika Tyari Aur Pootnaheekau.
Mohi Chhaandi Tum Aur Udhaarai Mitai Shoolkesen Jeekau. [2]
Kou Na Samarath Sev Karanaka Khechi Kahathon Leekau.
Mariyatlaaj Soorpati Tanamen Kahat Sabanmen Neekau. [3]
O Sri Hari, I am impure of a very high order…
– O Lord, I am the lowest of the low…
Shri Mahaprabhu Ji listened carefully, and when the song ended, he asked, “If you sing with such devotion, why do you still cry and call yourself fallen? Describe the divine qualities of Lord Krishna instead.”
Surdas Ji bowed and answered, “O Shri Mahaprabhu, the pastimes of the Lord have not yet appeared in my heart.”
Shri Mahaprabhu Ji smiled. “Go and take a bath,” he instructed. “I will help you experience the divine pastimes of Shri Krishna.”
After bathing, Surdas Ji returned to Shri Mahaprabhu Ji, who then initiated him into Pushtimarg, giving him the holy name of Shri Krishna. After a few days, he helped Surdas Ji surrendered at the lotus feet of Shri Krishna.
A turning point came when Shri Mahaprabhu Ji narrated the tenth canto of his Subodhini commentary on the Shrimad Bhagavatam, which describes only the pastimes of Shri Krishna.
As Surdas Ji listened, something miraculous happened. All the faults of Shri Surdas Ji were removed, and his heart became completely pure. One by one, the pastimes of Shri Krishna began to appear in his heart!
Filled with divine ecstasy, Surdas Ji composed a new verse and sang before Shri Mahaprabhu Ji:
“Chakairi Chali Charan Sarovar Jahan Na Prem Biyog”…..
– I am going to that lake where there is no separation of (divine) love.
Hearing this, Shri Mahaprabhu Ji immediately understood—the pastimes had appeared in Surdas Ji’s heart.
After some time, Surdas Ji sang another verse, describing Shri Krishna’s birth pastime:
“Braj Bhayou Meharke Poot”…..
After this, Surdas Ji urged his followers to receive initiation from Mahaprabhu Shri Vallabhacharya Ji, ensuring they too walked the divine path.
After sometime, Shri Mahaprabhu Ji blessed Surdas Ji with the sacred Purushottama Sahasranama, and with this, the entire Shrimad Bhagavatam appeared in Surdas Ji’s heart.
From then on, Surdas Ji composed poetry covering the first canto to the twelfth canto of Shrimad Bhagavatam, a masterpiece that is compiled into the legendary book “Sursagar.”
Arrival in Shri Braj Dham
A few days after his divine initiation, Mahaprabhu Shri Vallabhacharya Ji arrived in Braj Dham, the sacred land of Shri Krishna’s pastimes. Shri Surdas Ji, now his devoted disciple, accompanied him on this journey.
The first stop was Gokul, the place where Shri Krishna spent his childhood. As they arrived, Shri Mahaprabhu Ji turned to Surdas Ji and said,
“Surdas! Have the darshan of Shri Gokul.”
Although blind, Surdas Ji immediately bowed down in deep reverence. And at that very moment, something miraculous happened.
As soon as his forehead touched the holy land, the childhood pastimes of Shri Krishna appeared vividly in his heart. It was as if he could see everything—little Krishna crawling in the dust, playing with His friends, stealing butter, and bringing joy to all of Gokul.
Since Shri Mahaprabhu Ji had already imprinted the entire Shrimad Bhagavatam in Surdas Ji’s heart, merely hearing the name of Gokul awakened the divine vision of Krishna’s childhood leelas within him.
Overwhelmed with devotion, Surdas Ji felt an uncontrollable urge to sing. His heart overflowed with divine inspiration, and he recited:
(Raag Bilawal)
So Nitakaran Puneetaliyai.
Ghuturuvan Chalat Renu Tanamedat Surat Vesh Kiye. [1]
Chaaru Kapol Lol Lochan Chhabi Gorochanako Tilak Diye.
Laar Latakan Maanon Matamadhupagan Madhuri Madhur Piye. [2]
Kathulakanth Bajat Kehari Nakh Raajat Hai Sakhi Ruchir Hiye.
Dhany Soor Ekau Pal Yah Sukh Kaha Bhayau Jeeye. [3]
Hearing this divine poetry, Shri Mahaprabhu Ji was greatly pleased. But Surdas Ji didn’t stop—he continued singing verse after verse, each bringing the pastimes of Shri Krishna to life.
A New Service for Shri Surdas Ji
As Shri Mahaprabhu Ji listened to Surdas Ji’s verses, a thought crossed his mind.
“In the temple of Shrinath Ji, all the services are assigned—except one: the service of Kirtan. This sacred seva should belong to Surdas Ji.”
Determined, Shri Mahaprabhu Ji took Surdas Ji to the temple of Shrinath Ji in Govardhan.
After taking a bath, Shri Mahaprabhu Ji came to the temple on the top of the mountain and asked Surdas Ji to come to the temple to see Shrinathji after taking a bath.
Obediently, Surdas Ji bathed and then made his way up the mountain, where the temple of Shrinath Ji stood in all its glory. Entering with deep devotion, Surdas Ji had his first darshan of the Lord.
As Surdas Ji stood before Shrinath Ji, Shri Mahaprabhu Ji smiled and said,
“Surdas, sing something for Shrinath Ji.”
Without hesitation, Surdas Ji’s voice rose in devotion and sang a full verse called,
“Ab Main Nachyau Bahut Gupal”…..
Hearing this, Shri Mahaprabhu Ji’s eyes sparkled with joy. He looked at Surdas Ji and said, “Oh Surdas, now there is no ignorance left in your heart. The Lord has removed all darkness. Now, sing of His divine glory!”
Upon hearing these words, Surdas Ji sang another verse called:
“Kon Sukrit in Vrajavasinakon”…..
As his voice echoed through the temple, Mahaprabhu Shri Vallabhacharya Ji was deeply pleased.
In that moment, it became clear—Surdas Ji, though blind in sight, had been granted the ultimate vision: the eternal pastimes of Shri Krishna.
From that day on, Surdas Ji was appointed to the sacred service of Kirtan at Shrinath Ji’s temple, where his verses would continue to resonate, carrying the divine essence of Shri Krishna’s leelas to all.
Shri Surdas Ji’s Vision and the Darshan of Shri Navneetpriya Ji
One day, Shri Surdas Ji with Shri Gusain Ji went to Gokul, the sacred land of Shri Krishna’s childhood pastimes. There, he had the darshan of Shri Navneetpriya Ji.
As soon as he stood before the Lord, Surdas Ji began to sing, describing in rich detail the divine adornments on Shri Navneetpriya Ji.
Everyone, including Shri Gusain Ji’s sons, was astonished—How could Surdas Ji, who had no physical sight describe the Lord’s adornments so perfectly? They realized that Shri Hari must reside in his heart, revealing His divine form to him.
The next day, before Shri Surdas Ji arrived for darshan, to test his ability, they did not make Shri Navneetpriyaji wear any adornment.
Soon, Surdas Ji entered the temple, eager for darshan.
As he stood before Shri Navneetpriyaji, Gusain Shri Giridhar Ji turned to him and said,
“Surdas Ji, today, please describe how the Lord is adorned.”
At that moment, something extraordinary happened.
Though blind, Surdas Ji had a divine experience—he could see Shri Navneetpriyaji, just as he truly was. And then, with a voice filled with devotion, he sang a poem in Raag Bilawal:
“Dekh Ri Hari Nangam Nanga!”
– Look, O devotees! Today, Shri Hari stands before us—naked!
The Acharyas, turned to Shri Surdas Ji in amazement. One of them asked, “Surdas Ji, what are you describing?”
Surdas Ji simply smiled and replied,
“O Acharyas, I only describe what I see. Every day, I witness the Lord’s adornments as He appears before me. And today, He stands before me without them, and accordingly I have described it in my poem.”
It was now clear—Shri Surdas Ji’s devotion was beyond the limitations of human sight.
From that moment onward, no one ever doubted the divine connection between Surdas Ji and Shri Krishna.
Akbar’s Astonishment at Shri Surdas Ji
One day, the legendary musician Tansen performed a devotional hymn in Emperor Akbar’s royal court. The composition belonged to Shri Surdas Ji, the renowned poet-saint of Shri Braj Dham.
A Verse That Left Akbar Pondering,
जसुदा बार बार यों भाखे ।
है कोई ब्रज में हितू हमारो जो चलत गोपालहि राखे ।
As Tansen’s voice echoed through the court, Akbar, deeply impressed, asked,
“Explain the meaning of this verse.”
Several scholars, including Birbal and shayars including Faizi, interpreted the verse in different ways, each offering profound insights.
Listening to them, Akbar marveled,
“Incredible! Surdas Ji’s poetry is so deep that a single verse holds countless meanings. He must be an extraordinary poet!”
Tansen smiled and respectfully corrected him,
“Your Majesty, he is not just a poet—he is a great saint. He shares a divine bond with Lord Shri Krishna and is a master of all ragas and melodies.”
Akbar raised an eyebrow.
“Does he sing better than you, Tansen?”
Tansen humbly replied,
“Your Majesty, forgive my boldness, but I sing to please a mere emperor. Surdas Ji sings for the ruler of infinite universes—Shri Krishna Himself. There is no comparison.”
Intrigued, Akbar ordered,
“Call Surdas Ji to my court!”
Tansen shook his head,
“That is impossible, Your Majesty. Surdas Ji will never leave from the service of Shrinath Ji.”
Determined to meet the Shri Surdas Ji, Akbar planned to visit him in Parasauli. Before arriving, he sent a messenger to ask,
“Shall I come to meet you?”
Shri Surdas Ji declined the request. He worried that Akbar’s grand entourage would disturb the peaceful Brajdham land, polluting its sacred soil. Instead, he himself traveled to Mathura for the meeting.
Akbar, filled with reverence, greeted Shri Surdas Ji with folded hands and requested,
“Please, sing something.”
Shri Surdas Ji sang a soul-stirring verse:
मन रे कर माधव सों प्रीति ।…..
– “O Mind, love only Madhav (Shri Krishna).”
Akbar was deeply moved. Yet, wanting to test Surdas Ji’s devotion, he made a bold request,
“Surdas Ji, you always sing the praises of Shri Krishna. Today, sing something about me.”
Shri Surdas Ji gently replied,
“My dear brother, why are you so restless? Everything in this world—names, forms, and fame—will vanish. Only Shri Krishna’s name, form, and glories will remain forever. What will I gain by singing your praises? And what good will it do for you?”
Akbar, though impressed, persisted,
“But isn’t my kingship also granted by Shri Krishna? Great poets compose verses in my honor and receive rewards. Will you not do the same?”
Seeing Akbar’s insistence, Shri Surdas Ji calmly lifted his tanpura and sang,
मन में रह्यो नाहिन ठौर ।…..
“O Emperor, there is no place in my heart for you. My heart belongs only to Nand-Nandan (Shri Krishna). His divine image fills my thoughts every moment, waking or sleeping. Even for a second, His sweet form never leaves my sight.”
Akbar was speechless. With folded hands, he bowed before the Shri Surdas Ji and said,
“Forgive me, Baba. You are a true saint, free from all worldly attachments.”
Yet, Akbar’s curiosity was not fully satisfied. He asked,
“Surdas Ji, in one of your hymns, you describe Shri Krishna’s beauty with the lines:
स्याम गात सरोज लोचन ललित गति मृदु हास ।
सूर ऐसे दरस कारन मरत लोचन प्यास ।।
But you were born blind. How can you yearn for a vision you have never seen?”
Shri Surdas Ji answered,
“My dear emperor, the world is filled with people who have eyes, but how many truly crave to see God?”
Tansen, understanding the emperor’s doubt, intervened,
“Your Majesty, do not question whether Surdas Ji has seen Shri Krishna. The eyes that witness divine visions are not these physical eyes, but the eyes of the soul.”
Akbar asked,
“If he already sees Shri Krishna, then why does he sing about the thirst for His vision?”
Tansen turned to Shri Surdas Ji for an answer.
With a voice full of devotion, Shri Surdas Ji replied,
“Brother, this is a thirst of the heart. Even after seeing Shri Krishna, the longing only grows stronger. The more you experience His divine beauty, the more insatiable your desire becomes. You would not understand unless you had experienced it yourself.”
Moved by Shri Surdas Ji’s wisdom, Akbar offered him a royal land, grant as a token of respect. But Surdas Ji refused, saying,
“Brother, the name of Shri Krishna is my only wealth. What will I do with your land? Now, please arrange for my return quickly—it is time for my Lord’s service.”
Akbar, awestruck, bowed once again and personally ensured Shri Surdas Ji’s safe return.
Shrinath Ji’s Golden Vessel
In the village of Parasauli, a young boy named Gopal devotedly served Shri Surdas Ji. Though innocent and sincere, he was also a bit playful by nature.
One day, Gopal, as part of his daily routine, brought alms and placed them before Surdas Ji.
However, he soon ran off to collect the cow dung. As he worked, he became engaged in lively conversation with other village boys, completely forgetting one important duty—he had not kept a water pot near Surdas Ji.
Meanwhile, Surdas Ji began eating. But as he took a bite, a morsel got stuck in his throat. Unable to swallow, he instinctively reached out, his hands fumbling for the water pot—but it was nowhere to be found.
His throat tightened, and his very life seemed at risk, but the boy was far away.
At that very moment, Shrinath Ji—moved by the suffering of His dear devotee—could not remain at the temple. He Himself appeared, carrying a golden pitcher filled with water.
Surdas Ji, felt a vessel being placed in his hands. Without hesitation, he took a sip, and his throat cleared instantly.
Suddenly, Gopal remembered his mistake. His heart pounded as he realized he had forgotten to place the water, he sprinted back to Surdas Ji.
But as he reached, his eyes widened in astonishment. Before him stood a magnificent golden pitcher!
Gopal fell at Surdas Ji’s lotus feet, begging for forgiveness. With tears in his eyes, he asked,
“Baba, where did this pitcher come from?”
Surdas Ji, overwhelmed with emotion, began to weep. He softly replied,
“Gopal, I called your name, but instead, Shrinath Ji had to leave His temple and come here to serve me. How could I have troubled my Lord like this?”
Gopal, realizing the immense love between Surdas Ji and Shrinath Ji, was speechless.
A discussion arose—since the vessel had been used outside the temple, was it still fit for the Lord’s service?
Shrinath Ji Himself spoke,
“Aree! In friends, everything is acceptable! For Me, this pitcher is most worthy.”
Tears of joy filled the eyes of the devotees as they realized the depth of Shrinath Ji’s love for His beloved Surdas Ji.
At that moment, Surdas Ji, lost in divine bliss, sang:
The Merchant’s Awakening
In Jatipura, there lived a miserly merchant who ran a shop near the temple. Though he had no true devotion, he wore a Vaishnav Tilak on his forehead and adorned himself with many Tulsi malas, making it appear as though he was a sincere devotee.
Every day, before opening his shop, he would inquire about Shrinath Ji’s adornments in the temple. Upon learning the details, he would greet passing pilgrims with “Jai Shri Krishna! Jai Shri Krishna!” and then vividly describe that day’s Lord’s adornments.
The devotees, believing him to be a pious Vaishnav, preferred to purchase goods from his shop. His business developed on this deception, but his heart remained untouched by true devotion.
One day, the merchant approached Surdas Ji and complained,
“Baba, all Vaishnavs greet me with ‘Jai Shri Krishna,’ but you always walk past my shop without saying a word. You neither buy anything from me nor tell others to do so. Am I not a Vaishnav too?”
Surdas Ji smiled and replied,
“Brother, I avoid even walking in your shadow, lest your greed taint me! But today, you have invited me to speak, so listen well. Do you think I am blind to your ways? You are no true devotee. You wear the tilak only to deceive pilgrims, selling at high prices while giving short measures. Your greed has filled your pockets.”
The merchant’s face turned pale. He stammered,
“Baba, please don’t expose me! My livelihood depends on this!”
Surdas Ji remained firm,
“Then renounce your greed and take refuge in Shri Gusain Ji’s lotus feet. You have hoarded wealth through deception, but it will not bring you peace. Come for Shrinath Ji’s darshan.”
The merchant, fearful of being exposed, reluctantly agreed.
“Alright, Baba, just remind me when the darshan is open.”
Surdas Ji would arrive early at the temple, singing kirtans (padas) in devotion to his beloved Shrinath Ji. After some time, he went down the hill and called out to the merchant,
“Come! The Mangala Darshan is about to begin!”
The merchant frowned.
“Baba, this is the busiest time for my shop! If I leave now, I might lose my first sale of the day!”
Surdas Ji said nothing and left.
Later, at Shringar Darshan, he returned, but the merchant sighed,
“I have been sitting here all morning without a single sale! This is the hour when most pilgrims arrive—I can’t leave now.”
Again, Surdas Ji walked away.
By Rajbhog Darshan, Surdas Ji tried again.
The merchant shook his head,
“Baba, I am alone at the shop and the cows are wandering outside!”
By Utthapan Darshan, he said,
“Baba, the cows are about to arrive! If I leave now, they might eat my grain!”
Saints are relentless in ensuring the well-being of others. From the early Mangala Darshan to the final Shayan Darshan, Surdas Ji patiently reminded him on the first and second days.
But when he still did not come on the third day, Surdas Ji finally said…
“Since you refuse to listen, I will now expose your cheating to everyone! I will compose verses about your greed and sing them. I will ensure that no pilgrim buys a single grain from your shop! You live under Shrinath Ji’s divine flag, but you lie and cheat to fill your pockets. Have you ever served a single cow or Brahmin with your wealth?”
The merchant panicked. Realizing he could no longer escape, he grabbed Surdas Ji’s hand and said,
“Alright, Baba! I will come with you!”
Surdas Ji led him to the temple and, with deep emotion, prayed aloud,
“O Shrinath Ji, this man has lived under Your flag, Please, bless him with Your darshan!”
At that moment, Shrinath Ji’s divine form manifested before the merchant. His heart was overwhelmed by devotion and he collapsed into tears.
The merchant, now a changed man, fell at Surdas Ji’s lotus feet.
“Baba, I am sixty years old and have never seen the Lord before! From now on, I surrender myself completely to your guidance!”
Surdas Ji gently replied,
“Brother, only Shrinath Ji and our Acharyas can grant true mercy. Seek their refuge.”
The merchant bathed in Govind Kund, received Vaishnav initiation, and he was adorned with tilak and tulsi mala.
From that day on, he not only visited every darshan from Mangala to Shayan but also began offering grand bhog to the Lord and distributing prasadam to all Vaishnavs.
He continued his business but now left his shop at the right times to attend darshan. Surdas Ji, seeing his transformation, often sat at his shop, discussing Shrinath Ji’s glories.
One day, the merchant asked,
“Baba, now that I have found true devotion, please sing something.”
Smiling, Surdas Ji composed a 60 verse hymn (pada), one verse for each year of the merchant’s life (as the merchant turned 60 years).
The verses taught the impermanence of the world and the importance of remembering Shri Krishna.
कृष्ण सुमरि तन पावन कीजै ज्यों लौं जग सुपना ज्यो जीजै ।
अवधि उसांस गिनत सब तेरे सो बीतत भई आवत नेरे।
जो ये सुपने माहि बिचारै कबहुं न जन्म विषय लगि हारै ।
कही बिबेक बीज जो बोवै कबहु न जठर अगनि में सोवै ।
बार बार तोकूं समझावें जो छिन जाय बहुरि नहीं आवे ।। ……..
As the merchant listened, his heart filled with detachment. He asked,
“Baba, what should I do next?”
Surdas Ji advised,
“All the wealth you have accumulated is the root of suffering. If your mind remains attached to it even after becoming a Vaishnav, it will lead to the downfall of your human life. Surrender it to Shrinath Ji.”
Without hesitation, he offered sixty thousand rupees in service to Shrinath Ji (a huge sum in Akbar’s era), and from that moment, he became such a devoted servant that Shrinath Ji himself began to play with him.
A Pledge of 1.25 lakh padas
A thought arose in the heart of Shri Surdas Ji—he wanted to compose one hundred twenty-five thousand (1.25 lakh) padas and offer them to his beloved Lord, Shrinath Ji.
With deep devotion, he continued his compositions, and over time, he managed to complete nearly one hundred thousand (1 lakh) padas.
As he neared the completion of his sacred divine task, a realization dawned upon him.
He began to feel that his dearest friend, Shri Krishna, was calling him to join his eternal divine play in his spiritual realm. Yet, Surdas Ji was determined. He thought, “I will only leave after I complete my promise.”
Meanwhile, Shri Krishna himself grew restless, eagerly waiting for Surdas Ji to join him in the divine realm. Finally, unable to wait any longer, the Lord appeared before Surdas Ji.
“Surdas Ji, your vow is fulfilled. You have completed your 1.25 lakh padas,” said Shrinath Ji with a gentle smile.
Surdas Ji, in surprise and devotion, replied, “But my Lord, I have written only one lakh so far.”
The Lord with his divine presence radiating love. “The remaining padas, I have completed myself. They all bear the signature of ‘Sur Shyam.’ Now, it is time for you to join me in my eternal abode.”
Tears of joy filled Surdas Ji’s eyes. His heart filled with happiness.
The Sacred Verses of Surdas Ji
Shri Surdas Ji, composed several lakhs of padas. Filled with deep devotion and poetic beauty, his padas were compiled into various texts. However, today, only five major texts remain accessible to us.
1. Sursagar
– Sursagar is inspired by the twelve cantos of Srimad Bhagavatam. The book is divided into 12 cantos, with 11 being brief, while the 10th canto is the most extensive.
This 10th canto beautifully narrates the divine pastimes of Shri Krishna in Braj.
Originally, there were more than 100,000 verses, but today, only 7,000 to 8,000 remain accessible.
2. Sursaravali
– Sursaravali is another significant work by Surdas Ji, containing a total of 1,107 poems. He composed this book at the age of 67, focusing on the vibrant and joyous pastimes of Holi.
3. Sahitya Lahiri
– Sahitya Lahiri is another renowned poetry collection by Surdas Ji. This book beautifully presents various compositions of Shri Krishna devotion through poetic verses. It comprises a total of 118 poems.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is its final poem, where Surdas Ji reveals his family lineage.
4. Byahulo
– This book contains verses that describe the sacred marriage of Shri Radha and Krishna, portraying their divine union through poetic compositions.
5. Nal Damayanti
– This text narrates the story of Nal and Damayanti, which is from the Mahabharata era.
The Divine Departure of Surdas Ji
Years passed as Surdas Ji remained devoted to Shrinath Ji, serving Him with unwavering faith and love.
One day, a deep realization dawned upon him—the time to leave his mortal body had arrived.
With this thought, Surdas Ji made his way to Parasauli. There, he humbly bowed before the flag of Shrinath Ji’s temple, then lay down, surrendering himself completely.
A thought troubled him—his body had grown too weak to visit the temple and have darshan of Shrinath Ji and Shri Gusain Ji.
With a heart full of devotion, he longed, “If I could just see Shri Gusain Ji once before leaving,” he thought, “it would be my greatest fortune.”
Meanwhile, Shri Gusain Ji was adorning Shrinath Ji in the temple, lost in the divine service of the Lord. Suddenly, he noticed something unusual—Surdas Ji was missing.
Every day at this time, Surdas Ji would sit in the courtyard, joyfully reciting verses about the Lord’s adornment. But today, he was nowhere to be seen. Concerned, Shri Gusain Ji turned to the Vaishnavas and asked,
“Where is Surdas Ji? Has anyone seen him?”
One of the devotees replied, “Maharaj Ji, we saw Surdas Ji going toward Parasauli.”
A realization struck Shri Gusain Ji—Surdas Ji’s time had come. His heart filled with divine understanding, he turned to his attendants and said,
“Today, the great ship of Pushtimarg is departing. Whoever wishes to receive its blessings, go now! I will follow after completing the Rajbhog service.”
At once, all the attendants rushed toward Parasauli to see Surdas Ji.
Devotees coming to the temple were questioned by Shri Gusain Ji, but all gave the same response—“Surdas Ji is lying unconscious, he speaks no more.”
Thus it was time for Rajbhog. Shri Gusain Ji completed the Rajbhog Aarti and immediately left for Parasauli.
Accompanying him were his closest disciples, including Ramdas Prabhriti Ji, Kumbhandas Ji, Govind Swami Ji, and Chaturbhuj Das Ji.
As soon as Shri Gusain Ji arrived, he sat beside Surdas Ji and gently asked,
“Surdas Ji, how are you feeling?”
On hearing Shri Gusain Ji’s words, Surdas Ji gathered all his remaining strength, sat up, and bowed deeply. With folded hands, he softly said,
“Your Majesty, I was waiting for you.”
Tears welled up in the eyes of those present, as Shri Surdas Ji began to sing a poem:
“Dekho Dekho Harijoo Ka Ek Subhaav”……
– Behold, behold the nature of the Lord!
Shri Gusain Ji was very pleased to hear this verse.
Kumbhandas Ji, who was standing nearby, remarked,
“O Surdas Ji, you have glorified the Lord countless times, but you have never sung about the greatness of Acharya Mahaprabhu Shri Vallabhacharya Ji.”
Hearing this, Surdas Ji smiled and replied,
“I have always sung about Acharya Mahaprabhu! Shrinath Ji and Acharya Mahaprabhu are one and the same. There is no difference between them. But since you wish for it, I will sing something according to your wish.“
With these words, Shri Surdas Ji began singing:
“Bharoso Dridh In Charanan Kerau”…..
– I have placed my unwavering faith in these divine lotus feet (of Mahaprabhu Shri Vallabhacharya Ji)
As the pada ended, Surdas Ji fainted, his body barely clinging to life, Shri Gusain Ji leaned closer and asked,
“Surdas Ji, where is your mind resting now?”
Summoning the last of his strength, Surdas Ji softly sang another pada with the Lord’s mercy:
“Bali Bali Haun Kunvari Radhika Nandasuvan Jason Ratimani”…..
– I surrender my life again and again to Shri Radhika, the beloved of Shri Krishna, the Son of Nanda.
As he completed the verse, Shri Gusain Ji noticed his mind was fixed in the compassionate eyes of Shri Krishna, with one last breath, he sang:
“Khanjan Nain Surang Rasmaate.
Atisay Charu Vimal, Chanchal Ye, Pal-Pinjara Na Samaate”…..
– Shri Krishna’s lotus-like eyes are like the Khanjan bird and are enraptured by the beauty of Shri Radha’s nectar. They are exquisitely beautiful, innocent, and playful, refusing to be confined, even for a moment, within the cage of the eyelids.
As soon as these final words left his lips, in the year 1583, Surdas Ji departed from this world, merging forever into the eternal divine pastimes of Shri Krishna.
His padas remain immortal, guiding countless devotees toward the divine.
The great poet-saint Shri Surdas Ji left behind a treasure trove of devotion, his divine words infused with the essence of Shri Krishna’s love, beauty, and grace.
Even today, his verses continue to inspire, uplift, and draw hearts closer to Shri Krishna.
