Way to Pandharpur : “पाऊले चालती पंढरीची वाट”
In Maharashtra, the second biggest festival is Ashadi Yekadashi. In Marathi, the upcoming month of Ashad marks the time when Varkaris embark on their pilgrimage to Pandharpur to seek darshan (divine audience) of Lord Vithal, affectionately known as Pandharicha Vithuraya. People from various countries come to witness and participate in this pilgrimage, known as the vari. They dance and sing devotional songs in front of the palkhi (palanquin) that carries the symbolic paduka (footwear) of Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar, revered saints of Maharashtra.
The villagers suspend their farming activities and join the vari, walking along the route without regard for their personal comfort. As the palkhi passes through Pune, a city in Maharashtra, crowds gather eagerly to catch a glimpse of it. News reporters cover the event, capturing the enthusiasm and excitement of the devotees. The palkhi reaches Pandharpur on Ashadi Ekadashi, a significant day when countless pilgrims observe fasting as a mark of devotion. It is considered the most important Ekadashi of the year.
On this day, households prepare special fasting foods. Schools declare a holiday or a half-day for students, while colleges and schools organize rallies to the temple, facilitating darshan for students and providing them with fasting meals. When the palkhi arrives in Pandharpur, the pilgrims take a ritual bath in the Chandrabhaga River, which flows through the town. Afterwards, all the Varkaris, the devotees on the pilgrimage, seek darshan of Lord Vithal, who stands on a brick with his hands resting on his waist, accompanied by his consort, Rukmini.
This pilgrimage holds deep spiritual significance for the Varkaris, symbolizing their devotion and commitment to Lord Vithal. The journey is not merely physical but also a metaphorical passage towards spiritual enlightenment and union with the divine. The atmosphere during Ashadi Ekadashi in Pandharpur is charged with devotion and fervor, as thousands of pilgrims gather to experience the divine presence of Lord Vithal in this sacred town.
The tradition of the vari dates back centuries, rooted in the Bhakti movement of Maharashtra, which emphasized personal devotion to a chosen deity. It continues to attract devotees from all walks of life, transcending barriers of caste, creed, and nationality. For many Maharashtrians, participating in the vari is a lifelong dream and a pinnacle of their spiritual journey.
This annual pilgrimage holds immense cultural significance beyond its religious aspects. It serves as a unifying force, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds in a shared expression of faith and devotion. The vari is not just a journey to Pandharpur but a celebration of Maharashtra’s cultural tapestry, where traditional music, dance, and rituals blend harmoniously. The rhythmic chants of “Dnyanba Tukaram” and “Jai Hari Vithal” reverberate through the air, creating an atmosphere charged with spiritual energy and communal solidarity. Link
Moreover, the vari showcases the enduring traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations. It reflects the timeless values of humility, simplicity, and service ingrained in the ethos of Maharashtra’s society. The spirit of seva (selfless service) is palpable as volunteers tirelessly offer food, water, and shelter to the pilgrims, embodying the principle of “Athithi Devo Bhava” (Guest is God).
In recent years, the vari has also become a platform for social causes and awareness campaigns. From environmental conservation to promoting health and hygiene, initiatives are integrated into the pilgrimage, fostering a sense of responsibility towards society and the environment among participants.
The impact of the vari extends beyond its immediate participants, influencing art, literature, and cultural discourse in Maharashtra and beyond. Writers, poets, and artists draw inspiration from its themes of devotion, sacrifice, and spiritual longing, contributing to the rich tapestry of Indian cultural heritage.
In essence, the Ashadi Ekadashi vari in Pandharpur is more than a religious event; it is a cultural phenomenon that epitomizes the unity in diversity of India. It encapsulates the essence of Maharashtra’s soul, resonating with the universal human quest for transcendence and spiritual fulfillment. As the palkhi winds its way through Maharashtra’s landscape, it weaves together the threads of tradition, faith, and community, enriching the cultural fabric of the nation.
In conclusion, the vari during Ashadi Ekadashi is a cultural extravaganza and a testament to the enduring faith of Maharashtra’s people. It celebrates the rich heritage of Bhakti tradition and reinforces the bonds of community and devotion that define this vibrant pilgrimage. As the palkhi makes its journey, it weaves together stories of faith, tradition, and reverence, resonating with the timeless echo of devotion in the hearts of millions. Click Here