Author: Ankush Khungar | Last Updated: Sat 8 May 2010 11:50:13 PM
The most important annual pilgrimage is a 21-day trek known as Pandharpur Ashadhi Ekadasi Waari and culminates on the Ekadasi day in the Marathi month Ashadi.
One of the most famous pilgrimages in Maharashtra, Pandharpur Ashadhi Ekadashi Wari has been taking place for more than 700 years. The procession was started in the current form by Sant Tukaram's son Narayanmaharaj in 1685. But it is believed that the first pilgrimage was done by the parents of Saint Dnyaneshwar in the 13th century and Sant Dnyaneshwar during his time popularized it.
The annual Pandharpur Yatra to the famous Vithoba Temple at Pandarpur in Maharashtra is an unparalleled pilgrimage that breaks the barriers of caste, creed, rich and poor. Vithoba Temple is also known as Vitthal Rukhmini Temple and is dedicated to Lord Krishna.
The main Pandarpur Yatra starts from the Sant Tukaram Temple at Dehu in Pune District. The warkaris or pilgrims follow the Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi procession. This main procession is joined by Sant Dnyaneshwar palkhi from Alandi near Pune. Numerous other palkhis from other towns and villages join the yatra on the way.
Pandharpur Yatra is a classic example of unparalleled devotion to a personal deity, a great aspect of Bhakti sect. The amazing fact is that the Yatra is attracting more and more pilgrims each year. People young and old travel for kilometers barefooted chanting the holy names. The Yatra presents a perfect amalgamation of all castes, creed, rich, poor, young, old and children.
In 2010, the Pandarpur Yatra Palki of Tukaram Maharaj from Dehu near Pune will start on July 3, 2010 and will end on July 21, 2010 at Pandarpur on Ashadi Ekadasi.
The pilgrimage ends on the Ekadasi day during the waxing phase of moon in the Ashada Month as per traditional Marathi calendar.
Get your personalised horoscope based on your sign.