We often hear, read, and experience the teachings of saint literature and the principles of life that are expressed so simply in it. But what is the point of repeating these things over and over again, one might wonder. However, this is why saint literature has stood the test of time. The literature written by saints from different regions, in their respective languages, during their times – has become ingrained in people's hearts and continues to impart life lessons.
The reason for recalling this is the movie 'Saint Dnyaneshwar's Muktai'. Though the name is grand, in this article, I will refer to it simply as 'Muktai'.
I don’t intend to comment on the film's production here. What matters more is the experience. The first part of the film moves on naturally. We see many familiar scenes – but what stays with you is its music. Familiar literature, but with new tunes. I had never heard those tunes before. Those tunes and melodies gave me a fresh perspective – a perspective to turn inward, to look deep within. As a result, my reverence for saint literature deepened.
Around me, children spilling popcorn, the ringing of phones, people chatting – all of it begins to fade away. What unfolds before me is only Mauli’s world. The siblings who went to Paithan for purification, the recitation of the Vedas by the Reddy – all of it comes to life just as it is. At that moment, a calmness descends in the house. Some moments are meant to be experienced – not understood.
"Pasaydan" begins, and tears flow from my eyes.
"Now, grant the universal soul" – the meaning of these words becomes clear in that moment. The peaceful melody... the mysterious light... and Mauli's movement toward the Samadhi – experiencing all of this fills my heart with emotion. The creation of 'Amritanubhava' in Marathi literary culture feels like a divine revelation. The idea that Saint Dnyaneshwar condensed the essence of the Gita for the common man is beyond words. This is why – when I hear Pasaydan, it is hard not to shed a tear.
Kanhopatra, Chokhamela, Janabai, Savata Mali, Namdev —
All the saints appear one after another, meeting Mauli... for now, they are about to take Samadhi.
The film concludes, and I come back to my senses.
I want to visit Alandi again, this thought firmly settles in my mind.
But even more than that, a bigger question haunts me – "What exactly happened that made my tears uncontrollable?"
When Mauli enters the cave, awakens Kundalini, and closes his eyes –
I feel a strange restlessness, a restlessness in my heart. Why? I don’t know.
But with that, there is also a sense of joy –
As if I am letting go of something and accepting something new.
Instead of saying our generation doesn't know this,
Should we show this film to them, discuss it, and help them get familiar with this literature –
Can we start this journey?
I truly feel that this thought should be embraced by everyone.