Vithal Rukmini, Pandharpur – The Spiritual Heart of Maharashtra.

Vithal Rukmini Temple – A Beacon of Devotion

Join the sea of devotees at Pandharpur, a town that resonates with the chants of "Vithal, Vithal," especially during the grand Ashadi Ekadashi festival.

The Vithal Rukmini Temple, situated on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River in Pandharpur, is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Maharashtra. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vithoba, a form of Lord Vishnu or Krishna, and his consort Rukmini. It is the focal point of the Varkari tradition, a devotional movement that emphasizes equality and bhakti.

The main temple complex is vast and houses several smaller shrines. The idol of Lord Vithoba is unique, depicted standing on a brick with his arms akimbo, a posture that signifies he is waiting for his devotee Pundalik. Devotees have the rare opportunity to touch the feet of the idol, a practice known as "Pad-sparsha Darshan," which symbolizes a direct and personal connection with the divine.

Pandharpur comes alive during the annual Ashadi Ekadashi and Kartiki Ekadashi festivals, when hundreds of thousands of Varkaris undertake a pilgrimage on foot, known as the "Wari," from different parts of Maharashtra to the temple. This tradition has been followed for centuries and is a spectacular display of faith and devotion. A visit to the Vithal Rukmini Temple is a deeply moving experience, offering a chance to witness the powerful current of devotion that flows through Pandharpur and to seek the blessings of Lord Vithoba.