Surdas

Surdas was a 16th-century Indian devotional poet and singer renowned for his devotion to Krishna. Writing in Braj Bhasa, he is associated with the North Indian Bhakti movement, and his verses emphasize a personal, intimate relationship with Krishna, often recounting episodes from Krishna’s childhood and his acts of love and compassion. His best-known work is the Sur Sagar (The Ocean of Surdas), a collection of devotional songs that remains central to the Krishna bhakti tradition. His poetry is noted for its simple language, vivid imagery, and musical rhythm, making it well suited to public recitation and devotional singing.

Life and sources about Surdas are largely based on hagiography and later literary tradition rather than verifiable contemporary records. He is traditionally described as blind from birth and as a disciple within the Ramananda tradition, though exact biographical details such as birthplace, dates, and patrons are uncertain and differ across sources. He is believed to have lived in the 16th century in the Braj region of northern India, where his poems were composed and circulated orally before being collected in manuscript form.

Legacy and influence: Surdas is regarded as one of the most influential figures of the Bhakti movement in North India. His Krishna-centered poetry helped shape devotional practice and liturgical singing in many temples and homes. His verses have been set to music by classical and folk musicians alike and continue to be taught, performed, and celebrated in religious and cultural contexts across the Indian subcontinent.