Avatars of Vishnu
Vithoba also known as Vitthala and Panduranga is a Hindu god predominantly worshipped in the Indian state of Maharashtra and Karnataka. He is a form of the god Vishnu. Vithoba is often depicted as a dark young boy, standing arms akimbo on a brick, sometimes accompanied by his consort Rakhumai.
Vithoba is the focus of an essentially monotheistic, non-ritualistic bhakti-driven Varkari faith in Maharashtra and the Brahminical Haridasa sect established in Dvaita Vedanta in Karnataka. Vithoba Temple, Pandharpur is his main temple. Vithoba legends revolve around his devotee Pundalik who is credited for bringing the deity to Pandharpur, and around Vithoba’s role as a saviour to the poet-saints of the Varkari faith. The Varkari poet-saints are known for their unique genre of devotional lyric, the abhang, dedicated to Vithoba and composed in Marathi. The most important festivals of Vithoba are held on Shayani Ekadashi in the month of Ashadha, and Prabodhini Ekadashi in the month of Kartika.
Vithoba Temple, Pandharpur, MH
The Vithoba Temple, officially known as Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir is a Hindu temple in Pandharpur, in the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is the main centre of worship for Vithoba, a form of the god Vishnu or Krishna, and his consort Rakhumai. It is Classified one among the 108 Abhimana Kshethram of Vaishnavate tradition.
Vithoba Temple, Mulund, Mumbai
Shri Vitthal Temple in Mulund East, Mumbai, stands as a humble testament to community spirit and devotion. This small temple is not just a place of worship but a vibrant hub, carefully managed by a dedicated local group. What sets it apart is the remarkable feat of self-funding, reflecting the collective commitment of the community. Amidst the urban landscape of Mumbai, this temple radiates a sense of unity and cultural richness, offering solace to its devotees and showcasing the strength that grassroots initiatives can bring to the spiritual tapestry of a neighborhood.