Bhakta Kavi Salbeg was a famous saint and poet of
Orissa, during the 17th century. Although a Muslim by birth, he was a great devotee of
Lord Jagannath of
Puri. He composed many songs in praise of the lord.
Bhakta Kavi Salbeg’s tomb is located at Puri. The famed chariot procession of Lord Jagannath at Puri, called Rath Yatra, makes a temporary halt in front of this tomb.
According to legend, Salbeg fell sick on his way back from a pilgrimage. This sickness caused his delay in attending the procession. He prayed and pleaded to the lord to slow it down. It is said that the lord’s chariot did not move until Salbeg reached Puri and joined the procession. This halting of the chariot has become a part of the tradition.
