Mahayogi Vemana
- Context (PIB): PM paid tributes to Mahayogi Vemana on the occasion of Vemana Jayanti.
- He lived in 17th century CE.
- Vemana was born in Gandikota, Kadapa district of Rayalaseema region in Andhra Pradesh.
- Yogi Vemana was an Achala yogi, Philosopher, social reformer and poet of the Telugu language.
Poems of Yogi Vimana
- Vemana’s poems are categorised into social, moral, satirical and mystic nature.
- His poems are treated as the best morals by the Telugu ancestors.
- His poems were preserved by people on palm leaves or orally (vocal).
- His poems were published as a book (shatakam) by Charles Philip Brown, ICS, two times in 1829 and 1839.
- He had a friend called Abhirama. Abhirama’s guru taught Vemana moksha.
- Most of his poems end with the signature line of “Vishwadaabhi Rama vinura Vema” (Hey! Abhirama listen Vemana)
Social Work
- He travelled extensively to spread his message of social change, moral values, and eradication of social evils.
- He was a radical reformer who resisted all social and religious blind beliefs and harmful traditions and practices through his poems.
- He condemned idol worship, social inequality, irrespective of caste, creed or religion.
- He had to face the wrath of orthodox people who disliked his teachings and reforms.
