Warkari

Warkari is a Vaishnava religious tradition within the Marathi culture of India, focused on the worship of Vithoba (also known as Vitthal), a manifestation of Vishnu. The term "Warkari" literally means "one who goes to the vari."

Vari refers to the annual pilgrimage (yatra) to Pandharpur, the principal center of Vithoba worship, undertaken by Warkaris. These pilgrimages involve walking hundreds of kilometers, often in large groups, carrying palanquins (palkhis) containing the symbolic sandals (paduka) of revered saint-poets like Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram.

The Warkari tradition is characterized by its egalitarianism and inclusivity, transcending caste barriers. It emphasizes devotion (bhakti), ethical living, and the chanting of abhangas (devotional poems) composed by the saint-poets. Key tenets include non-violence, simple living, and the importance of community in spiritual practice.

Significant figures in the Warkari tradition include Dnyaneshwar (Jnaneshwar), Namdev, Tukaram, Eknath, and Chokhamela. Their teachings, expressed through their abhangas, continue to inspire and guide Warkaris. The Bhagavata Purana and the works of the saint-poets form the scriptural basis of the Warkari movement. The tradition has played a significant role in shaping Marathi identity and culture.