By Radhika Vallabh Dasa (Punjab-Haryana Padayatra leader)
This year, the Vyasa Puja celebration of my spiritual master, Lokanath Maharaja, in Pandharpur Dham was filled with immense enthusiasm, devotion, and spiritual energy. One of the most inspiring sights was witnessing the deep love that the Vitthal Varkari devotees have for Thakur Ji. Devotees patiently wait for nearly 24 hours just to receive even a single moment of darshan. The palkhis arriving from places such as Dehu, Alandi, and other regions, and the discipline of the devotees walking long distances, resting under trees, and continuing their journey with unwavering faith is truly inspiring.
A joyful Vyasa Puja celebration Maharaja’s Vyasa Puja was also celebrated beautifully. Seeing Maharaja enthusiastically dancing and performing kirtan, inspiring everyone around him, filled the atmosphere with spiritual joy. Devotees from different padayatras also gathered for this special occasion, including devotees from our Punjab-Haryana Padayatra.
Pandharpur: a sacred land of Bhakti Majhi Bahin Chandrabhaga – The sacred river Chandrabhaga of Pandharpur adds another dimension to this divine atmosphere. Taking a holy bath and having darshan of Chandrabhaga brings a wonderful feeling of spiritual connection. Pandharpur is known as Naad Brahma Kshetra and is also glorified as Bhu Vaikuntha: heaven on earth.
The Padma Purāṇa describes the journey of Bhakti Devi:
Utpannā Drāviḍe sāhaṁ
Vṛddhiṁ Karṇāṭake gatā
Kvacit kvacin Mahārāṣṭre
Gurjare jīrṇatāṁ gatā
“Bhakti Devi says: I was born in Dravida, grew in Karnataka, and spread through parts of Maharashtra before reaching Gujarat.” This sublime portrayal reminds us of the deep and historic connection of Bhakti with Maharashtra. Thus, this sacred land has been blessed by the presence and devotion of great devotees such as Chokha mela, Santa Eknath, Santa Namdev, Santa Tukaram, Janabai, and Ramabai. The Lord has performed countless beautiful lilas here, from accepting the love and offerings of His devotees to pastimes such as eating taakpeeth. The famous expression “Vitthu Majha Lekurvala” superbly reflects the intimate relationship between Vitthal and His devotees.
Inspiration for padayatra seva Being in such an atmosphere of devotion created a powerful surge of inspiration to carry this spirit of bhakti and preaching even further, especially in Punjab. Every year we visit Pandharpur, and this year brought another special moment: the launch of our magazine “Padayatra Kranti.” The atmosphere of Pandharpur, the devotion of the Varkari devotees, the kirtans, the palkhis, and the celebration of Maharaja’s Vyasa Puja all served as a powerful reminder of the transformative strength of devotional service.
May the mercy of Lord Vitthal empower our padayatra efforts and help the message of devotion reach more and more people.
Hare Krishna.
