The Ashadhi Wari, a pilgrimage undertaken by the devotees, known as Varkaris, to the holy town of Pandharpur on the occasion of Ashadi Ekadashi, is characterized by a unique feature: every individual participating is recognized solely as a ‘Varkari,’ without distinction of caste or religion. Devotion and surrender are the hallmarks of their identity.
“वैकुंठ ते घर | सांडूनिया निरंतर ||१||
तो हा पुंडलिक द्वारी | उभा कर कटावरी ||२||
क्षीरसागरींची मूर्ती | तो हा रुक्मिणीचा पती ||३||
नये योगियांचे ध्यानी | छंदे नाचतो कीर्तनी ||४||
नामा म्हणे आला | सर्व परिवार आणिला ||५||”
Translation:
“Vaikunth is left behind, for eternity,
At the door of Pundalik, he stands, on a brick squarely.
The idol from the ocean of milk, husband of Rukmini,
Not in the yogis’ meditation, but in kirtans, he dances keenly.
Nama says, he has come,
Bringing all his family, welcoming some.”
This procession, attended by millions, is a disciplined cultural tradition of Maharashtra. It starts from Alandi with the holy sandals (Paduka) of Saint Dnyaneshwar and from Dehu with the Paduka of Saint Tukaram. These palanquins become the pilgrimage’s centerpiece as they make their way to Pandharpur. The tradition has ancient roots, with references found in Saint Dnyaneshwar’s lineage, underlining a long-standing practice within his family. The Varkari Dharma, synonymous with Bhagwat Dharma, unites people across different strata, a tradition nurtured and propagated by Saint Tukaram, Saint Eknath, and other revered saints.
The pilgrimage’s history begins with devotee Pundalik, spanning over seven hundred years and covering various eras, from before Dnyaneshwar to the periods of Bhanudas – Saint Eknath and Tukaram Maharaj – Niloba. On Ashadi Ekadashi, palanquins from all saints’ villages converge in Pandharpur, embodying the Varkari sect’s desire for ‘residence in Pandhari, bathing in the Chandrabhaga river, and the vision of Lord Vitthala.’
‘Dhava,’ meaning to run, commemorates a legend where Tukaram Maharaj, upon seeing Vitthala’s temple spire from Velapur, was driven by an irresistible pull to Pandurang and ran all the way to Pandharpur. Varkaris emulate this act, running the final leg of their journey.
Despite the vast attendance, the Wari is marked by an absence of disputes, with any conflicts resolved quietly. Exclusive to the procession are the honored ‘kirtans,’ a tradition meticulously continued by Shri Haibatbaba’s descendants. A specific sequence and rules for reciting Abhangas (devotional songs) are followed, ensuring a unified chant throughout the pilgrimage. Some Varkaris dedicate themselves to distributing water, while others undertake the journey barefoot, epitomizing the spirit of selfless service.
The continuous chant of ‘Jnanoba-Tukaram’ throughout the Wari, symbolizing breath and exhalation, represents the collective devotion and legacy of all saints. This celebration of supreme love, devotion, and faith is the essence of undivided Maharashtra. Even amidst the coronavirus pandemic, the love for Shri Pandurang and the devotees’ yearning ensure a swift recovery.
Understanding the virtues of the Wari can transform one’s life, offering direction and contentment. The essence of the entire Ashadhi Wari, the divine Pandurang, and His beloved devotees is captured in the Abhang from Namdev’s Gatha, inspiring a desire to be part of this spiritual journey.