Short: The Life and Legacy of Goswami Tulsidas

Goswami Tulsidas was a renowned Hindu poet, saint, reformer, and philosopher known for composing several influential literary works. He is most famous for his epic, the Ramcharitmanas, which is a retelling of the Ramayana in Awadhi, a vernacular language. Tulsidas is also celebrated for his devotion to Lord Rama.

Born in the bright half of the lunar month of Shraavana (July or August), in Rajapur (Chitrakuta), Tulsidas' exact birth year is debated among scholars, with estimates ranging from 1532 to 1554. He lived a long life, approximately 126 years. According to legend, he was born with 32 teeth and began chanting Rama's name immediately.

Tulsidas had a difficult childhood, being abandoned by his parents and cared for by a maid named Chuniya. After her death, he lived as an orphan, begging for alms, and was believed to be protected by the Goddess Parvati.

His life is documented in several sources, including Bhaktamal and Bhaktirasbodhini by Nabhadas and Priyadas, as well as Mula Gosain Charit and Gosain Charit by Veni Madhav Das and Dasanidas, respectively.

Tulsidas was believed to be the reincarnation of Valmiki, the original author of the Ramayana. He received spiritual initiation and training in Ayodhya, eventually settling in Varanasi, where he gained knowledge of Sanskrit, Hindu literature, and philosophy.

He married Ratnavali but left her to become a Sadhu (ascetic) following a disagreement, as some sources suggest. Later in his life, he had a significant encounter with Lord Hanuman, who guided him to meet Lord Rama.

Tulsidas' literary journey took him from composing in Sanskrit to writing in Awadhi, as he was instructed by Lord Shiva and Parvati. His most celebrated work, the Ramcharitmanas, was written in Ayodhya, and it took him about two years, seven months, and twenty-six days to complete.

Tulsidas is also known for other works like Dohavali, Kavitavali, Gitavali, Krishna Gitavali, Vinaya Patrika, and more, showcasing his immense talent and literary contributions.

He passed away at the Assi Ghat on the banks of the Ganges in the month of Shraavan in the year 1623.

In addition to the Ramcharitmanas, Tulsidas is famous for composing the Hanuman Chalisa and Sankatmochan Hanumanashtak, both dedicated to Lord Hanuman, as well as other significant works like Tulsi Satsai and various shorter compositions. His literary legacy continues to inspire people with its devotion, wisdom, and spiritual teachings.