Varkari Sect Saints: Uncovering Their Stories and Teachings

The Varkari sect is a group of devotees who worshipped Vithal, a form of the god Vishnu, in Maharashtra, India. The sect emerged in the 13th century and has a rich history of saints and their teachings. In this article, we will delve into the stories and teachings of some of the most prominent Varkari sect saints.

One of the most famous Varkari sect saints is Eknath, a 16th-century poet and saint who wrote extensively on the teachings of Vithal. Eknath's writings emphasized the importance of devotion, selfless service, and the pursuit of knowledge. He also wrote about the need for social reform and the importance of treating all beings with kindness and respect.

Another prominent Varkari sect saint is Tukaram, a 17th-century poet who wrote over 3,000 abhangs, or devotional songs, in Marathi. Tukaram's teachings emphasized the importance of selfless love and devotion to Vithal. He also wrote about the need for social reform and the importance of treating all beings with kindness and respect.

Both Eknath and Tukaram were influenced by the sant tradition, a movement of saints and poets who emphasized the importance of devotion, selfless love, and social reform. The sant tradition was a major force in shaping the Varkari sect and its teachings.

The Varkari sect saints also emphasized the importance of pilgrimage and the need to visit sacred sites, such as the Pandharpur temple, which is dedicated to Vithal. The sect's emphasis on pilgrimage and sacred sites helped to spread its teachings and attract new devotees.

Today, the Varkari sect is still active, and its teachings continue to inspire devotees around the world. The sect's emphasis on devotion, selfless love, and social reform remains a powerful force for change and transformation.

In conclusion, the Varkari sect saints have left a lasting legacy of teachings and stories that continue to inspire and guide devotees today. Their emphasis on devotion, selfless love, and social reform remains a powerful force for change and transformation, and their stories continue to captivate and inspire people around the world.