Panduranga, also known as Vithoba, Vitthal, or simply Panduranga, is one of the most revered deities in Maharashtra and the rest of India. Revered as Maharashtra’s beloved deity, Panduranga is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, embodying divine love, humility, and devotion. Vitthal, often seen standing on a brick in Pandharpur, symbolizes the connection between God and his devotees, reflecting compassion, patience, and the devotion of the Bhakti movement. He is considered a manifestation of Lord Vishnu and, in particular, holds many attributes similar to Lord Krishna. Panduranga is not only a symbol of devotion and divine love but also represents the humble and compassionate connection between God and his devotees. This deity is intricately linked to the Warkari Movement and is at the center of the popular pilgrimage to Pandharpur, which attracts millions of devotees every year.

In this post, we will explore the mythology, stories, cultural significance, and devotion associated with Panduranga, revealing why he holds such an essential place in the hearts of devotees across India.

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The Origin of Panduranga Vitthal and Pandharpur

Pundalik was a devoted son to his parents, Janudev and Satyavati, who lived in a forest called Dandirvan. After his wedding, however, Pundalik began to ill-treat his parents. Fed up with his behavior, the elderly couple decided to leave for Kashi—a city where many Hindus believe one can attain salvation. Pundalik and his wife decided to join them on the pilgrimage, but he continued mistreating his parents, making them walk while he and his wife rode on horseback.

On the way, they reached the Kukkutswami Ashram, where they stayed for a few days. One night, Pundalik witnessed a group of divine women dressed in soiled clothes, who entered the ashram, performed various chores, and then emerged in clean attire. The next night, Pundalik approached them and asked who they were. They revealed themselves as the holy rivers—Ganga, Yamuna, and others—explaining that their clothes were soiled by the sins of those who bathed in their waters. They also pointed out that Pundalik, due to his mistreatment of his parents, was among the greatest sinners.

This realization transformed Pundalik, who then devoted himself entirely to serving his parents with love and care.

Lord Krishna, impressed by Pundalik’s devotion, visited him while he was attending to his parents. Instead of abandoning his duty, Pundalik placed a brick (Vit) outside and asked Krishna to stand on it and wait until he was finished. Pleased by this act of selflessness, Krishna stood on the brick and granted Pundalik’s wish to stay on Earth to bless his devotees. Thus, Panduranga Vitthal came to reside in Pandharpur, standing on a brick, embodying the ideals of love, patience, and devotion. Today, the Pandharpur Temple is an important site of pilgrimage, known for its welcoming environment where devotees can seek the blessings of Vithoba.

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The Warkari Movement and Panduranga: Maharashtra’s Spiritual Tradition

Panduranga’s connection with the Warkari Movement is fundamental to understanding his spiritual and cultural significance in Maharashtra. The Warkari tradition revolves around the journey of devotion towards Pandharpur, emphasizing the ideals of love, equality, and service to others. The Warkari Movement is a Bhakti tradition centered on devotion to Vitthal and emphasizes simplicity, humility, and service to humanity. Devotees, known as Warkaris, participate in an annual pilgrimage called Wari, walking hundreds of kilometers to Pandharpur to seek blessings from Panduranga.

The Warkari Movement has produced numerous saints who were ardent devotees of Vithoba, including Sant Dnyaneshwar, Sant Tukaram, Sant Namdev, Sant Eknath, Sant Gora Kumbhar, Sant Chokhamela, and Sant Janabai. These saints played an instrumental role in shaping the Bhakti tradition and spreading the teachings of Panduranga Vitthal. These saints composed numerous Abhangas (devotional songs) that praised Panduranga and spread his message of love, equality, and devotion.

• Sant Namdev treated Vithoba as his personal friend, singing songs that depicted the Lord as approachable and loving. Namdev’s relationship with Panduranga shows how Vithoba is a deity who can be treated as an companion.
• Sant Tukaram’s kirtans brought people together in joyous devotion, with a focus on divine love. Tukaram’s Abhangas expressed his faith that Vithoba is a compassionate Lord who always supports his devotees, no matter their circumstances.
• Sant Dnyaneshwar, known for his spiritual wisdom, sang praises to Vitthal, emphasizing that divine love transcends caste, social barriers, and all worldly concerns.
• Sant Gora Kumbhar: A potter by profession, Sant Gora Kumbhar was an ardent devotee of Panduranga. One of the most famous stories of Gora Kumbhar involves his test of devotion. Once, while he was engrossed in chanting the name of Vithoba, he accidentally trampled his child who was playing near his pottery wheel. Despite this tragic incident, Gora Kumbhar remained steadfast in his devotion, and Panduranga, moved by his unwavering faith, brought his child back to life, proving the depth of divine grace.
• Sant Chokhamela: Chokhamela’s devotion to Vithoba is a testimony to the inclusive nature of the Bhakti movement. Despite facing social discrimination, Chokhamela continued to worship Panduranga with unwavering faith. One story tells how Chokhamela, who was not allowed inside the temple due to his caste, would sit outside and sing Abhangas in praise of Vithoba. One day, when Chokhamela was unjustly beaten, Panduranga appeared with bruises on his own body, showing that he felt the pain of his devotee. This story emphasizes the oneness of God and his devotees, irrespective of social status.
• Sant Janabai: Janabai was a maidservant in the household of Sant Namdev, and she shared a deep bond with Panduranga. Janabai’s devotion was marked by her simplicity and her songs of praise for Vithoba while doing household chores. It is said that when Janabai was overwhelmed with work, Panduranga himself would come to help her, showing that no act of devotion, however small, goes unnoticed by the Lord.

Iconography and Symbolism

The depiction of Panduranga is unique and full of symbolism. Vithoba is shown standing upright on a brick with his hands on his waist, a pose that represents his readiness to come to the aid of his devotees. The brick he stands on symbolizes humility, as it was provided by Pundalik, and the deity’s willingness to wait for his devotee.

Panduranga’s attire is reflective of Lord Krishna—wearing a peacock feather in his crown and adorned with beautiful jewelry and a yellow dhoti. The peacock feather and flute symbolize his connection to Krishna, and his serene expression reflects the calmness and love he has for all of his devotees.

The association with the Tulsi plant is also significant, as Tulsi (holy basil) is often seen as an offering at Panduranga’s feet. Tulsi represents purity, devotion, and dedication, and its presence at Panduranga’s altar serves as a reminder of the purity of Bhakti (devotion).

Pandharpur Wari: The Divine Pilgrimage to Vitthal

One of the most spectacular aspects of Panduranga’s worship is the Pandharpur Wari—an annual pilgrimage that attracts millions of devotees. The pilgrimage starts from Alandi (Sant Dnyaneshwar’s village) and Dehu (Sant Tukaram’s village) and proceeds to Pandharpur, culminating on Ashadhi Ekadashi. The Warkaris walk long distances, singing and chanting the praises of Panduranga along the way.

The Palkhi (palanquin) procession of Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar is the highlight of the Wari. It symbolizes the devotion of the saints and their journey to be in the presence of Panduranga. The pilgrims—dressed in white, carrying tulsi plants, and chanting “Jai Hari Vitthala”—create an atmosphere of unparalleled devotion and spiritual fervor.

The Ashadhi Ekadashi (in June-July) and Kartiki Ekadashi (in October-November) are the two main occasions when devotees gather in Pandharpur. These events are marked by communal prayers, kirtans, Abhangas, and celebrations, all aimed at expressing love for Panduranga.

In addition to the Pandharpur pilgrimage, there are also stories of how Sant Eknath walked barefoot from Paithan to Pandharpur, covering a distance of over 400 kilometers. His journey was filled with devotion and compassion, as he provided food and shelter to fellow pilgrims along the way. The Eknath Wari is another testament to the unwavering devotion of the saints towards Panduranga and highlights the significance of sharing and caring for others during the spiritual journey.

Miracles and Stories of Panduranga Vitthal’s Divine Grace

There are countless stories of miracles associated with Panduranga, each showcasing his boundless love for his devotees:

• The Tailor’s Miracle: A poor tailor once wished to make clothes for Vithoba, but he had no fabric. When he prayed earnestly, Panduranga appeared to him, blessed him with enough cloth, and allowed him to sew beautiful clothes for the deity.
• Sant Namdev’s Song: Once, when Namdev was singing Abhangas, some doubters questioned his devotion. In response, Panduranga himself moved from the central position of the temple to stand beside Namdev, showing that Namdev’s devotion was pure and beloved by the Lord.
• Devotee’s Offering: Another well-known story is about a poor devotee who had nothing to offer Panduranga except a bowl of curd. Vithoba accepted it with love, proving that what mattered most was the intention behind the offering rather than its value.
• Hampi Vitthal Temple: Another significant story related to Panduranga is that of the Vitthal Temple in Hampi, Karnataka. This temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is said to have been built under the guidance of Krishnadevaraya, the ruler of the Vijayanagara Empire. Legend has it that the king had a dream in which Lord Vitthal appeared and directed him to construct a temple for him. The temple is renowned for its magnificent architecture and for being one of the most beautiful and sacred sites dedicated to Vitthal. Devotees believe that Vitthal fulfills their wishes when they visit this temple, especially during festivals like Magha Purnima and Ekadashi.

Panduranga Vitthal and Rukmini: The Divine Couple

Rukmini, Panduranga’s consort, is always depicted alongside him, symbolizing the unity of devotion and divine grace. She is believed to represent the Lakshmi that complements Vithoba’s presence in Pandharpur.

The story of Rukmini’s marriage to Vithoba is deeply rooted in folklore. It is said that Rukmini, displeased with her family’s choice for her marriage, ran away to be with Krishna, who became Vithoba. Rukmini’s love and dedication to Panduranga represent the ideal bond between a devotee and the divine.

Panduranga Vitthal’s Influence on Maharashtrian Culture and Festivals

The cultural significance of Panduranga extends beyond just spiritual devotion. Panduranga has influenced art, literature, music, and social movements in Maharashtra.

• Literature and Music: Panduranga has inspired an incredible number of songs, known as Abhangas, which have become an integral part of Marathi culture. These Abhangas, composed by saints like Tukaram and Dnyaneshwar, are still sung in temples and during kirtans.
• Festivals and Community: Festivals dedicated to Panduranga, such as Ashadhi Ekadashi and Kartiki Ekadashi, are celebrated with immense fervor, drawing people from all walks of life. These festivals promote a sense of unity, equality, and devotion, irrespective of caste or social background.

Conclusion

Panduranga is more than just a deity; he represents an entire tradition of love, humility, devotion, and community. His connection with his devotees, whether through Pundalik’s devotion, the Wari pilgrimage, or the saint-poets’ Abhangas, transcends mere ritualistic worship. Panduranga embodies a personal, intimate relationship between the divine and the devotee—a relationship built on faith, love, and equality.

His presence in Pandharpur continues to be a beacon of devotion, attracting millions of people every year to experience the divine love of Vithoba. The stories, the miracles, and the rich cultural traditions surrounding Panduranga make him one of the most beloved deities, reminding us that devotion in its purest form always reaches the divine.