PoojasVitthalAshadhi Ekadashi
The Varkari Sampradaya: A Journey of Devotion, Equality, and Bhakti
Discover the profound history, spiritual essence, and cultural impact of the Varkari Sampradaya, the saint-led Bhakti tradition dedicated to Lord Vitthal.
By Sanatan Hindu AI4 min readUpdated 18 October 2026Audio available
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Introduction
The Varkari Sampradaya is a prominent devotional movement within Hinduism, primarily rooted in the state of Maharashtra, India. It is characterized by its intense, unswerving devotion (Bhakti) to Lord Vitthal, an incarnation of Vishnu/Krishna, who resides in the holy town of Pandharpur. Unlike many ascetic traditions that demand complete renunciation of worldly life, the Varkari path offers a way to achieve spiritual liberation (Moksha) while living as a householder, emphasizing that divinity can be found in every breath and every duty performed with love.
Historical roots of the Varkari tradition are deeply intertwined with the Bhakti Movement that swept across India between the 7th and 17th centuries. While its foundations are ancient, the sect's structured spiritual identity was shaped by a lineage of great poet-saints (Sant Parampara). These saints, spanning various castes and social backgrounds, preached the message of equality, social justice, and the universality of God. They dismantled the rigid hierarchies of the time, asserting that devotion to Vitthal was accessible to all, regardless of gender, caste, or social standing.
The core of the Varkari identity is the 'Vari'—the annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur. Thousands of devotees, known as Varkaris, walk hundreds of kilometers on foot, singing bhajans and kirtans, to reach the feet of Lord Vitthal during the holy months of Ashadh and Kartiki. This pilgrimage is not merely a physical journey but a spiritual cleansing, a collective movement of souls seeking union with the Divine. The Varkari lifestyle is marked by simplicity, humility, and a constant remembrance of the name of Vitthal.
Philosophically, the Varkari sect leans towards Advaita (non-dualism) tempered by profound devotion. While they recognize the personal form of Vitthal (Saguna), the ultimate realization is often the realization of the formless Brahman (Nirguna) through the grace of the Guru and the deity. The tradition is heavily influenced by the teachings of Sant Dnyaneshwar, who provided the philosophical bedrock through his commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, and Sant Tukaram, whose abhangs (devotional poems) continue to resonate as the heartbeat of the movement.
Historical roots of the Varkari tradition are deeply intertwined with the Bhakti Movement that swept across India between the 7th and 17th centuries. While its foundations are ancient, the sect's structured spiritual identity was shaped by a lineage of great poet-saints (Sant Parampara). These saints, spanning various castes and social backgrounds, preached the message of equality, social justice, and the universality of God. They dismantled the rigid hierarchies of the time, asserting that devotion to Vitthal was accessible to all, regardless of gender, caste, or social standing.
The core of the Varkari identity is the 'Vari'—the annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur. Thousands of devotees, known as Varkaris, walk hundreds of kilometers on foot, singing bhajans and kirtans, to reach the feet of Lord Vitthal during the holy months of Ashadh and Kartiki. This pilgrimage is not merely a physical journey but a spiritual cleansing, a collective movement of souls seeking union with the Divine. The Varkari lifestyle is marked by simplicity, humility, and a constant remembrance of the name of Vitthal.
Philosophically, the Varkari sect leans towards Advaita (non-dualism) tempered by profound devotion. While they recognize the personal form of Vitthal (Saguna), the ultimate realization is often the realization of the formless Brahman (Nirguna) through the grace of the Guru and the deity. The tradition is heavily influenced by the teachings of Sant Dnyaneshwar, who provided the philosophical bedrock through his commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, and Sant Tukaram, whose abhangs (devotional poems) continue to resonate as the heartbeat of the movement.
Significance
The significance of the Varkari Sampradaya lies in its transformative social and spiritual impact. Spiritually, it democratizes the path to God. By emphasizing 'Nama Smarana' (constant remembrance of the Divine Name) and 'Kirtan' (devotional singing), it removes the need for complex rituals or expensive sacrifices, making spirituality a lived, breathing experience for the common person. The Varkari path teaches that the body is a temple and every act of service to humanity is an act of worship to Vitthal.
Culturally, the Varkari tradition has been the cornerstone of Marathi literature and identity. The 'Abhangas' composed by saints like Sant Dnyaneshwar, Sant Namdev, Sant Eknath, and Sant Tukaram are not just religious texts but masterpieces of linguistic and emotional expression. These verses have preserved the ethical values, social consciousness, and linguistic nuances of the region for centuries. The movement fostered a unique culture of communal living and shared spirituality through the 'Wari' pilgrimage.
Socially, the Varkari sect has historically been a powerful force for social cohesion. By insisting that all Varkaris are equals on the pilgrimage road, the tradition challenged the oppressive caste structures of medieval India. In the eyes of Vitthal, the scholar and the laborer, the high-born and the low-born, are one. This egalitarian ethos has helped maintain a sense of social harmony and mutual respect within the community.
On a psychological and individual level, the Varkari practice of 'Satsang' (gathering with the truth) and constant 'Bhajan' provides a profound sense of mental peace and emotional resilience. The rhythmic chanting and the communal singing act as a meditative tool, helping the devotee transcend the anxieties of daily life and connect with a higher state of consciousness. The 'Vari' itself acts as a profound metaphor for the human journey: a long, sometimes difficult path of endurance, eventually leading to the peaceful sanctuary of the Divine presence.
Culturally, the Varkari tradition has been the cornerstone of Marathi literature and identity. The 'Abhangas' composed by saints like Sant Dnyaneshwar, Sant Namdev, Sant Eknath, and Sant Tukaram are not just religious texts but masterpieces of linguistic and emotional expression. These verses have preserved the ethical values, social consciousness, and linguistic nuances of the region for centuries. The movement fostered a unique culture of communal living and shared spirituality through the 'Wari' pilgrimage.
Socially, the Varkari sect has historically been a powerful force for social cohesion. By insisting that all Varkaris are equals on the pilgrimage road, the tradition challenged the oppressive caste structures of medieval India. In the eyes of Vitthal, the scholar and the laborer, the high-born and the low-born, are one. This egalitarian ethos has helped maintain a sense of social harmony and mutual respect within the community.
On a psychological and individual level, the Varkari practice of 'Satsang' (gathering with the truth) and constant 'Bhajan' provides a profound sense of mental peace and emotional resilience. The rhythmic chanting and the communal singing act as a meditative tool, helping the devotee transcend the anxieties of daily life and connect with a higher state of consciousness. The 'Vari' itself acts as a profound metaphor for the human journey: a long, sometimes difficult path of endurance, eventually leading to the peaceful sanctuary of the Divine presence.
Auspicious Time
The most significant time is during the Ashadhi Ekadashi (June/July) and Kartiki Ekadashi (November) pilgrimages, though daily Nama Smarana is encouraged.
Find your exact auspicious time Check the shubh muhurat and choghadiya for your city and date.
Required Samagri (Materials)
✦Tulsi leaves (Holy Basil)
✦Veena or Taal (Cymbals)
✦Ektara (one-stringed instrument)
✦Vitthal-Rukmini Idol or Picture
✦Incense and Diya
✦Flowers (especially yellow or orange)
✦Sandalwood paste (Chandan)
Preparation Steps
- 1Cleanse the heart of ego and pride, as humility is the primary requirement.
- 2Prepare physical attire, traditionally simple white cotton clothing.
- 3If participating in Wari, ensure physical stamina is built through walking.
- 4Organize a gathering space for Kirtan or Bhajan if performing at home.
Steps
- 1Begin with the morning ritual of bathing and wearing clean, simple clothes.
- 2Light a Diya (lamp) and incense before the image of Lord Vitthal and Rukmini.
- 3Offer Tulsi leaves to the deity, as Vitthal is extremely fond of Tulsi.
- 4Recite the names of the Sant Parampara (the lineage of saints) to seek their blessings.
- 5Engage in Nama Smarana (chanting the names of Vitthal) or sing Abhangas.
- 6Perform Kirtan: a combination of storytelling, singing, and rhythmic movement.
- 7Conclude with Aarti, offering light to the deity while singing praises.
- 8Distribute Prasad (sanctified food) to all present, emphasizing equality.
Mantras
Vitthal Nama Smarana
विठ्ठल विठ्ठल विठ्ठल
Vitthala Vitthala Vitthala
Meaning: Oh Vitthal, Oh Vitthal, Oh Vitthal
Pundalika Charan Sparsh Mantra
पुंडलीक वरदे हरि विठ्ठल
Pundalika Varade Hari Vitthala
Meaning: O Vitthal, the granter of boons to Pundalik (the great devotee)
Do's
- ✓Chant the name of Vitthal throughout the day.
- ✓Sing Abhangas and participate in communal Kirtan.
- ✓Treat all fellow devotees as equals and siblings.
- ✓Respect and follow the guidance of the Guru/Sant lineage.
Don'ts
- ✗Do not engage in caste-based discrimination or social hierarchy.
- ✗Do not perform rituals with an intention of showing off or seeking fame.
- ✗Avoid harsh speech or criticizing others during spiritual practices.
- ✗Do not neglect one's worldly duties while pursuing spiritual life.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Focusing only on the physical exertion of the pilgrimage while neglecting internal devotion.
- •Treating the Wari as a mere tourist excursion rather than a spiritual vow.
- •Neglecting the teachings of the saints while only following the rituals.
Regional Variations
- •In Maharashtra, the emphasis is heavily on the Wari pilgrimage to Pandharpur.
- •In other parts of India, the influence of the Varkari tradition is seen through the broader Bhakti movement's emphasis on Nama Smarana.
- •Family traditions may vary in the specific Abhangas or Bhajans chosen for daily household worship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the main deity of the Varkari sect?▾
The main deity is Lord Vitthal, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, often depicted standing on a brick (Vit).
What is the 'Wari'?▾
Wari is the annual pilgrimage where devotees walk to Pandharpur to visit the temple of Lord Vitthal.
Can anyone become a Varkari?▾
Yes, the Varkari tradition is inherently egalitarian and open to all regardless of caste, gender, or social status.
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References & Traditional Notes
- •The teachings of Sant Dnyaneshwar's 'Dnyaneshwari' are foundational.
- •The 'Tukaram Gatha' is a primary source of devotional Abhangas.
- •The importance of the 'Tulsi Vrindavan' in Varkari households cannot be overstated.
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Varkari SectLord VitthalPandharpur WariBhakti MovementSant Tukaram