The podcast by Varada Sambhus gives a fascinating exploration of the “Vari Pilgrimage,” a sacred journey deeply embedded within the cultural and religious heritage of India. Because the writer of the guide “Vari Pilgrimage: Bhakti, Being, and Past,” Varada Sambhus brings to gentle the historic, cultural, and religious sides of this exceptional custom, providing listeners a profound understanding of the pilgrimage’s significance.
Origin and Historic Roots of Vari Pilgrimage
The time period “Vari” is derived from the Sanskrit phrase “Var,” signifying a activity carried out at common intervals. The Vari pilgrimage includes an annual journey to Pandurang of Pandharpur, constituting a residing custom.
Sant Dhyaneshwar Maharaj, who lived round 800 years in the past, is credited with initiating this pilgrimage, making him a pioneering determine within the Varkari Sampradaya. Curiously, there’s a scarcity of conclusive proof of the pilgrimage’s existence earlier than the thirteenth century, including a component of historic intrigue to this sacred custom.
Agricultural Significance
The Vari pilgrimage is deeply entwined with the agricultural group in India. Devotees embark on this pilgrimage with a heartfelt prayer to Pandurang for the fertility of their land and a affluent crop yield.
This pilgrimage, subsequently, embodies a singular connection to the financial and pure cycles of life. The contributors draw not solely religious sustenance from this journey but in addition tangible, livelihood-sustaining blessings, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between the land and the devotees.
When is Vari Pilgriage Performed?
The Vari pilgrimage happens 4 instances a yr, aligning with the Hindu calendar months of Ashadha, Kartik, Chaitra, and Magha. Of those Ashadha one which falls roughly in Jun-July is the preferred one, adopted by the Kartik one which falls after Diwali.
Every pilgrimage spans roughly 18 to 21 days, making it a rigorous and profound expertise for the devotees. Conventional pilgrims sometimes traverse this sacred path on foot, adhering to age-old customs that add a layer of religious and bodily significance to the journey.
Palki Procession
On the coronary heart of the Vari pilgrimage lies the grand Palki procession. Round 70 Palkis, or palanquins, every carrying the padukas or foot photos of various saints, make their manner from varied Marathi-speaking areas to Pandharpur. It’s like taking the saints on the pilgrimage with you.
Outstanding amongst these is the Palki of Tukaram Maharaj that comes from Dehu and Dhyaneshwar Maharaj that comes from Alandi. These Palkis make 15 halts alongside the pilgrimage route, as theymove singing and dancing to the songs of Vithala. The city of Pandharpur is widely known for its vibrant reception of those holy processions.
Large Gathering and Inclusivity
The Vari pilgrimage is a testomony to its inclusivity, because it attracts an unlimited gathering of devotees, numbering between 10 to fifteen lakh folks yearly. Anybody can take part on this pilgrimage, no matter their background or social standing.
To be acknowledged as a Varkari, one should acquire a Tulsi Mala, abstain from alcohol and meat consumption, and decide to enterprise the Vari pilgrimage a minimum of yearly. It’s one among thefew pilgrimages which are performed following the Yama-Niyama prescribed in our scriptures.
Dindi – Organizing Teams
Facilitating the logistics of such a large pilgrimage isn’t any small activity. This duty falls on the shoulders of small organizing teams generally known as Dindi.
These Dindi teams, composed of fifty to 1500 members, play an important position in arranging lodging, meals, and water for the pilgrims. Devotees can select to hitch a Dindi or journey independently, guaranteeing that the pilgrimage stays accessible to all.
Financial and Cultural Impression
The Vari pilgrimage extends its affect past the realm of spirituality. It has important financial implications, boosting the native financial system of Pandharpur and surrounding areas.
Moreover, the pilgrimage encourages the sharing of concepts and fosters cultural alternate.
Throughout you, you witness the Varkari ethos – rooted in deep devotion and selfless service.
Cultural Nuances of Vari Pilgrimage
The Vari pilgrimage will not be merely a bodily journey; it’s a wealthy tapestry of cultural nuances that outline the religious expertise for the devotees. The air resonates with the soul-stirring chants of devotional songs and the rhythmic beats of conventional devices. The colourful colours of the pilgrims’ apparel, the sacred saffron and tulsi beads adorning their necks, contribute to the visible spectacle that’s the Vari pilgrimage.
Mauli – the Common Brotherhood
A exceptional side of the Vari pilgrimage is the sense of common brotherhood it instils. All contributors, no matter gender, caste, creed, or race, are addressed as “Mauli.” This time period of respect transcends social boundaries, encompassing law enforcement officials, journalists, tea distributors, and everybody concerned in or related to the pilgrimage. The pilgrimage serves as a poignant reminder of the unifying energy of religion and devotion.
End result of the Vari Pilgrimage
Because the pilgrimage reaches Pandharpur, devotees have interaction in a collection of sacred rituals. They take a holy dip within the Chandrabhaga river, search the blessings and darshan of the saints, and pay homage to Pandurang.
Prasad, sometimes comprising rice flakes and curd, is distributed among the many pilgrims.
Importantly, these related with the Palki, additionally make the return journey on foot, taking Padukas again. It’s referred to as Parat Vari and is often performed quicker than onward journey. Others have the flexibleness to decide on their mode of return for journey again residence.
There loads of lodging accessible in Pandharpur. Even residential homes, generously open their doorways to accommodate devotees throughout this sacred interval.
Religious Dimensions of Vari Pilgrimage
Delving into the religious dimensions of the Vari pilgrimage unveils a journey that goes past the bodily realm. Pilgrims expertise a profound sense of devotion and give up as they stroll the sacred path. Every step echoes with the centuries-old traditions handed down via generations. The pilgrimage turns into a transformative expertise for Maulis. A religious odyssey the place devotees forge a deeper reference to the divine and with each other.
Planning and Schedule
For people inquisitive about collaborating within the Vari pilgrimage, a well-structured Vaari Schedule is offered 4 months prematurely. This gives ample time for planning and preparation for devotees. It additionally ensures that devotees can have interaction on this profound religious journey with forethought and consideration.
In conclusion, the Vari pilgrimage stands as a beacon of spirituality, cultural richness, and inclusivity. It invitations devotees from all walks of life to partake in a journey that transcends the peculiar.
Varada Sambhus’ insightful exploration of this pilgrimage unveils the deep religious significance and cultural heritage of Vari. She sheds gentle on the enduring traditions and profound religion that proceed to form the lives of numerous devotees.
