Varkari
The Varkari tradition is a devotional movement in Maharashtra, India, centered around the worship of Lord Vithoba, a form of Lord Krishna. It emphasizes the importance of singing devotional songs, known as bhajans, and participating in communal gatherings called warkari sampraday. Followers, known as Varkaris, often undertake pilgrimages to the sacred town of Pandharpur.
Varkari practices include the recitation of the Dnyaneshwari, a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, and the teachings of saints like Dnyaneshwar and Namdev. The movement promotes values such as equality, devotion, and community service, making it a significant aspect of Maharashtra's cultural and spiritual landscape.