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What is Abhang? Structure, Meaning & Spiritual Importance in Marathi Bhakti Tradition

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 What is Abhang? Structure, Meaning & Spiritual Importance in Marathi Bhakti Tradition Introduction An Abhang is a sacred devotional poetic form deeply rooted in the Bhakti tradition of Maharashtra . The word Abhang comes from the Marathi words “a” (not) and “bhang” (broken), meaning “unbroken” or “continuous.” It symbolizes uninterrupted devotion toward God. Abhangs are most commonly dedicated to Lord Vitthal (Vithoba), worshipped at Pandharpur . These devotional songs are sung by the Varkari sect during pilgrimages (Wari) and spiritual gatherings. Introduction to Tukaram Gatha – Teachings of Tukaram and the Bhakti Movement Historical Background The Abhang tradition flourished between the 13th and 17th centuries during the Bhakti movement in India. Several saint-poets contributed to this rich devotional literature: Sant Dnyaneshwar Sant Namdev Sant Eknath Sant Tukaram Among them, Sant Tukaram’s Abhangs are the most popular and widely sung even today. ...

Introduction to Tukaram Gatha – Teachings of Tukaram and the Bhakti Movement

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Introduction to Tukaram Gatha – Teachings of Tukaram and the Bhakti Movement The Tukaram Gatha is one of the most sacred and inspiring spiritual texts in Marathi literature. It is a collection of abhangas (devotional poems) written by Sant Tukaram Maharaj, a great saint of the Bhakti movement in Maharashtra. His words are simple, emotional, and filled with deep devotion toward Lord Vitthal. The Gatha is not just poetry — it is a guide for life, devotion, morality, and inner peace. 📖 Who Was Sant Tukaram? Tukaram (1608–1649) was a 17th-century saint, poet, and spiritual reformer from Dehu village near Pune, Maharashtra. He was a prominent saint of the Varkari Sampradaya , a devotional tradition dedicated to Lord Vitthal of Pandharpur. He composed thousands of abhangas expressing: Love for God Equality among people Criticism of hypocrisy Importance of devotion (Bhakti) Detachment from materialism 📜 What is Tukaram Gatha? The Tukaram Gatha is a compilation ...