Mahadamba, also known as Mahdaisa, is recognised as the earliest known female poet in Marathi literature. A child widow from the Varkari tradition, she composed Dhavale (auspicious marriage songs) that celebrated life and devotion. Through her poetry, she gave voice to women’s experiences and emotions in a male-dominated literary world. Her pioneering work opened the path for later women saints and contributed significantly to empowering women through creative expression and spiritual participation in the Bhakti movement.