When Narayan was just eight years old, he had a dream in which Lord Rama chose him as his devotee. From that day onwards, he insisted on being known as Ramdas. A few years later, just when he was about to enter the life of a householder, he ran away from home, choosing to live as an ascetic.

Ramdas spent twelve long years in prayer and penance, at the end of which he was rewarded with a divine vision. He began to move from region to region, preaching and performing miracles. Though he yearned for spiritual salvation, he was deeply concerned for the welfare of the people around him and did much for their emancipation. He is remembered as Shivaji's spiritual mentor.