Culture - - Posted on July, 17 at 5:32 pm
Ashadh Ekadashi, also known as Hari Shayani Ekadashi, is an important day for the Vaishnvites and more so for the people of the Varakari cult of Maharashtra.
Varakaris gather in Pandharpur to meet Vithoba before he retires for his four month-long sleep on the serpent Shesha in the middle of Kshirasagara (the ocean of milk). They start from their home a few days before the actual day and cover the distance walking barefoot. Women carry Kalash, metal pots containing water and decorated by mango leaves. Some carry Tulsi Vrindavan, a pot with the Tulsi plant, which is dear to Vishnu.
They are accompanied by the palanquins of the Varakari saints of yesteryear, who are believed to be as eager to meet their Lord as the common people. Palanquin of Jnaneshvara comes from Alandi, that of Tukaram from Dehu. The parade reaches Pune fifteen days before the day, on Jyeshtha Ekadashi.
People gather to welcome the procession and offer prayers to the saints. Food, water and shelter are offered to the Varakaris by individuals and local groups. Providing service to the Varakaris or walking some distance with the procession is believed to be an extremely pious act.
The Varakaris seem to enjoy the trek, covering a great deal of distance comfortably dancing to the rhythm of Tal (cymbals) and Mrudanga (horizontal drums) and singing Bhajans.
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