The annual 'wari' i.e. the pilgrimage from Alandi to Pandharpur has begun its journey this week. As the Sant Tukaram Maharaj and Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj 'palkhis' (palanquins) bearing the 'padukas' (foot imprints cast in silver) wind their way through the long and torturous route to their final destination, Pandharpur, the divine abode of Lord Pandurang (Lord Vitthal) and his consort Goddess Rukmini; the aura is one of infinite patience, perseverance, devotion and faith. Nothing daunts the 'warkaris', the pilgrims in their annual trek. Neither rain nor scorching heat, nor sores on their feet nor worldly troubles; as they have dedicated these 15-20 days to the Supreme Lord who will take care of them!
They sing 'abhangs', religious hymns and songs, chant verses from divine scriptures, play traditional instruments, perform folk-dances, enact street-plays with socioeconomically relevant themes and walk on in a blissful trance, (some even with 'tulsi vrindavans, padukas' or the idols atop their heads) till they reach their destination on the auspicious 'Ashadhi Ekadashi' day. When they are at last in the temple in front of their beloved God, nothing matters except the 'Darshan'. They will pray fervently and return year after year.
They are helped in their onward journey by the devout who feed them, provide free medicines, footwear, mobile recharge vouchers and other necessities; in turns, at their various halting places. Thus these good Samaritans earn Divine benediction too!
The 'palkhis' arrived in Pune on Wednesday and started on their onward journey today. On both Wednesday and Thursday, our house was blessed too! The buds of the Divine Brahma kamal plant that flowers only once a year, blossomed and spread their lovely fragrance, albeit for some few hours at night. We prayed for the well-being of everyone.
Here are some snaps of the unique flowers.
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| Divine gift! |
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| Ethereal beauty! |
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| Lord Vithoba and Goddess Rakhumai's blessings! |
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