Milarepa, also known as Jetsun Milarepa, was a Tibetan yogi and poet who lived in the 11th century. He is considered one of the most influential figures in Tibetan Buddhism and is revered for his teachings and spiritual practices.

Milarepa was born in the village of Kya Ngatsa in the Kham region of Tibet. His father, Mila Sherab Gyaltsen, was a wealthy landowner and his mother, Kunga Lhamo, was a devoted Buddhist practitioner. However, after his father's sudden death, Milarepa's uncle and aunt seized their inheritance, leaving Milarepa and his mother destitute.

Feeling betrayed and seeking revenge, Milarepa turned to black magic and sorcery to avenge his family's loss. He was successful in causing harm to his uncle and aunt, but soon realized the negative consequences of his actions and felt immense remorse. This led him to seek out a spiritual master, Marpa Lotsawa, who became his guru and taught him the ways of Buddhism.

Under Marpa's guidance, Milarepa underwent intense spiritual training and practices, including meditation, chanting, and physical austerities. He also studied Buddhist scriptures and received teachings on the Mahamudra, the ultimate nature of reality.

After years of rigorous training, Milarepa attained enlightenment and became a renowned spiritual master. He traveled throughout Tibet, spreading his teachings and inspiring many with his wisdom and compassion. He also composed numerous songs and poems, which are still widely studied and recited in Tibetan Buddhist communities.

Milarepa is believed to have lived in various caves and hermitages in Tibet, including the famous Milarepa's Cave in Nyalam. He also spent some time in the Himalayan region of Nepal, where he is said to have meditated in the sacred caves of Mount Kailash.

Today, Milarepa's legacy continues to inspire and guide many on the path of spiritual enlightenment. His teachings on the power of compassion, forgiveness, and inner transformation are still relevant and cherished by Buddhists all over the world.