Mîråbåî

Inscribed in Text, Embodied in Life

Abstract

This article explores the life and legacy of Mirabai, a sixteenth-century Rajput princess renowned for her unwavering devotion to Krishna. Drawing on hagiographic accounts and historical sources, it examines the narratives surrounding Mirabai's defiance of social expectations and her embodiment of absolute devotion. The article further analyzes the complex ways in which Mirabai's example has been interpreted and appropriated within Vaishnava traditions, considering her impact on women's religious lives and the potential for both liberation and social control inherent in her story. The study also presents accounts of contemporary women who identify with Mirabai, highlighting the enduring relevance of her story.