The Heritage of India Series (5): Psalms of Maratha Saints One Hundred and Eight Hymns

This anthology presents translations of 108 poems authored by prominent Vaisnavite poets hailing from the Maratha region. The significance of the number 108 mirrors the prayerful essence of Vaisnavite devotion, akin to the 108 tulsi beads adorning devotees’ rosaries. The process of selecting these poems was arduous due to the extensive literary output of these poets. While elements of worthlessness and unhealthiness exist within literature, philosophy, art, and regulated life, their contents hold invaluable treasures of knowledge, wisdom, and beauty. For the cultivation of a cultured, modern identity, every Indian, regardless of religious affiliation, should engage with this cultural heritage. Regrettably, despite scholars’ efforts, this heritage remains largely inaccessible to the general populace.