Jalaram Bapa - Divine Saint of Service & Devotion
Shree Jalaram Bapa was born in 1799 in Virpur, Gujarat, to Pradhan Thakkar and Rajbai Thakkar. A devotee of Lord Rama, he married Virbhai at 16 but soon renounced material life to serve humanity. With his wife’s support, he started Sadavrat, a free kitchen feeding all, regardless of caste or creed. At 18, he became a disciple of Bhoja Bhagat, receiving his Guru Mantra and blessings.
A wandering sadhu once gifted him an idol of Rama, foretelling Hanuman’s arrival. Miraculously, idols of Sita and Lakshmana appeared, and his grain store became inexhaustible. His fame spread, and people of all faiths sought his blessings. A divine test saw his wife serve a saint, who left behind a Jholi (cloth bag) and Danda (staff), now preserved at his Virpur shrine.
Jalaram Bapa’s home in Virpur became a pilgrimage site, housing his worshipped idols, personal belongings, and a rare photo taken a year before his passing. His legacy of selfless service continues today, as Virpur’s Sadavrat Seva still feeds thousands daily.
Jalaram Mandir
Early Life and Spiritual Awakening
Jalaram Bapa was born to Pradhan Thakkar and Rajbai. From a young age, he showed great compassion and a desire to serve saints and the needy. Guided by his Guru, Bhojalram of Fatehpur, he embraced a life of selfless service. With his wife Virbai’s support, he dedicated himself entirely to God and humanity.
Sadavrat: The Eternal Kitchen
Jalaram Bapa established Sadavrat, a free kitchen serving all, regardless of caste or religion. His deep faith in Lord Rama inspired him to never turn away the hungry. This act of generosity became legendary, drawing thousands to Virpur. Even today, Sadavrat continues to provide free meals to countless visitors.
Miracles and Divine Blessings
Jalaram Bapa’s miracles strengthened people’s faith in his divine presence. He healed the sick, multiplied food, and guided many spiritually. His selfless service and devotion to Lord Rama made him a living saint. Even today, his legacy continues to inspire countless devotees.
Later Life and Legacy
Jalaram Bapa dedicated his life to selfless service, seeking neither wealth nor fame. He served the needy until his last breath in 1881. His legacy lives on through temples, charity, and devoted followers. His divine presence continues to inspire generations.
Jalaram Jayanti and Worship
Jalaram Jayanti, on Kartik Sud 7, celebrates Jalaram Bapa’s birth anniversary. Devotees mark the day with bhajans, prayers, and community feasts. Temples worldwide hold special programs and Sadavrat Seva. His legacy of compassion and devotion continues to inspire.
Jalaram Mandir – A Place of Devotion
Jalaram Mandir in Mangalore is a sacred pilgrimage site. It embodies Bapa’s values of seva, satya, and bhakti. Daily aartis, bhajans, and Sadavrat Seva keep his legacy alive. Visitors seek blessings and engage in selfless service.
Jalaram Bapa’s life is an enduring testament to selfless service, faith, and devotion to God. His message of kindness, humility, and charity remains relevant even today, inspiring millions to lead lives filled with compassion and spiritual dedication. Whether through temples, charitable activities, or the continued tradition of Sadavrat, his presence is deeply felt in the hearts of his devotees.