Svatantrata is freedom or autonomy; in Mirabai's example, true love demands the freedom to be yourself, even if it defies social expectation or a partner's preferences.
Mirabai's entire life was an assertion of svatantrata—freedom to choose her own path, her own beloved, her own spiritual practice, regardless of family or society. This freedom wasn't selfish; it was essential to her integrity. In modern attraction, svatantrata is often sacrificed in the name of 'making it work.' People compress themselves, suppress desires, hide parts of themselves to maintain connection. But Mirabai teaches that authentic love can only flourish between free people. If you're sacrificing your autonomy, you're not in prema; you're in a cage. Svatantrata means maintaining your own spiritual practice, your friendships, your creative work, your voice—even within intimate partnership. It means a partner who wants you free, not compliant. By honoring your need for freedom and choosing partners who do the same, you create attraction that's alive and evolving rather than static and suffocating.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
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