Ashadhi Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day of the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha) in the month of Ashadha (June–July time frame) according to the Vedic calendar.
It marks the beginning of Chaturmas, a period of four holy months in the Hindu calendar. Ashadhi Ekadashi, also known as Devshayani Ekadashi, holds immense spiritual significance in Hindu tradition and is celebrated at Pandharpur every year.
Pandharpur is revered as Dakshin Kashi or Dakshin Dwarka…It is associated with Viththal Pandurang.., affectionately called Bhu-Vaikuntha by pilgrims. The Pandharpur Wari is a revered pilgrimage in Maharashtra.
The Warkari sect celebrates devotion through the Pandharpur Wari, a sacred pilgrimage…… Warkari is the tradition of going on a 'wari' or a small pilgrimage on foot to the Vitthala's temple at Pandharpur. Vitthala is none other than Sri. Krishna who came to Pandharpur from Dwaraka to meet his beloved Bhakta Pundalika and stayed there itself on a brick.
On this day, Lord Vishnu is believed to enter a state of deep slumber or meditative rest known as Yoga Nidra. This divine rest lasts for four months, ending on Prabodhini Ekadashi (also called Kartiki Ekadashi) in the month of Kartik.
The Pandharpur Wari tradition has a rich history that spans centuries. It originated around the 13th century and has continued uninterrupted since then. Devotees have faithfully undertaken this pilgrimage for generations, making it a deeply ingrained part of Maharashtra’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Devotees observe fasting, visit temples, and seek blessings from Bhagwan Vishnu.
The Wari is a spiritual journey undertaken by millions of Warkari devotees. It symbolizes devotion, community, and reverence for beloved Vithoba. The procession starts from Alandi and Dehu, covering approximately 250 km on foot over a 21-day journey. The palkhis carry the padukas of revered saints, most notably Sant Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram. Devotees stay awake all night, singing bhajans (devotional songs) and sharing stories of saints. People from all walks of life participate in this adhyatmik journey, and all share the same devotional feeling. The tradition is more than 700 to 800 years old. This sacred journey is a beautiful expression of devotion and community spirit.
The community spirit among the Warkaris during Ashadhi Ekadashi is truly remarkable. As they embark on their pilgrimage to Pandharpur, they form a vibrant tapestry of devotion, camaraderie, and shared purpose. Walking together, chanting hymns, and carrying the padukas of revered saints, they create an atmosphere of unity and reverence. Towns and villages along the way come alive with colorful decorations. Elaborate adornments of stops along the route include flowers, ornaments, and saffron flags fluttering in the air. As the Warkaris journey to Pandharpur, they create a lively atmosphere with music, dance, and traditional instruments Veena, Taal, mridangam, and other instruments resonate, adding to the festive spirit. Devotees share ‘Prasad,’ spreading love and harmony among fellow pilgrims and locals. They address each other as “Mauli”, or mother, irrespective of social status, or gender.
Remember that Ashadhi Ekadashi is a time of deep devotion, community bonding, and spiritual fervour for Warkari devotees. A highlight of the procession, Ringan involves devotional songs and a sacred horse running around the saint’s palanquin. This tradition reflects unwavering faith and communal spirit, as devotees come together to celebrate their devotion to Panduranga Vithal.
पाऊले चालती पंढरीची वाट |
सुखी संसाराची तोडूनिया गाठ ||
महायोगपीठे तटे भीमरथ्या वरं पुंडरीकाय दातुं मुनीद्रैः ।
समागत्य तिष्टंतमानंदकदं परब्रह्मलिंगं भजे पांडुरंगं ॥
No comments:
Post a Comment