Salabega (c. 1607–1680), a 17th-century saint-poet of Odisha, was born into a Muslim family. Deeply influenced by Lord Jagannath and Krishna bhakti, he embraced Vaishnavism despite strong opposition. His soulful bhajans, filled with intense love and longing for Lord Krishna and Jagannath, became very popular. Salabega’s life symbolises the power of devotion to transcend religious boundaries. His poetry remains an important part of Odia devotional literature and syncretic culture.