Ashaad Ekadashi

The Rhythms of Devotion: How Music Moves the Soul on Ashadhi Ekadashi

There are certain moments in the Indian spiritual calendar that do more than just occur—they stir something inside us. Ashadhi Ekadashi is one such occasion.

For followers of Lord Vitthal, this day transcends ritual; it is a vibrant, living celebration of faith. The streets come alive with the footsteps of the Warkaris, pilgrims who journey for days to reach Pandharpur, the sacred center of devotion in Maharashtra. At the core of their pilgrimage is not merely the destination but the sound that guides them.

Here is an abhang that describes how just a glimpse of Vitthala provides a soothing and comforting feeling, profoundly touching the soul.

The Music of the Soul

The air in Pandharpur resonates with the steady clang of cymbals (taal), the deep, earthy rhythm of the mridang, and the continuous hum of the tambura that grounds the melodies. Voices rise in abhangs — devotional verses handed down by saints like Tukaram, Dnyaneshwar, and Namdev. The melodies are simple, repetitive, yet profound. They are not designed to impress but to immerse.

These instruments do more than accompany the songs — they transform the atmosphere, creating a space where logic fades and bhakti prevails. The rhythmic patterns soothe the thinking mind into stillness, while the heart opens wide in longing and surrender.

• Pakhawaj: The heartbeat of the kirtan, its thunderous yet soothing beats maintain the tempo of the soul's journey.

• Taal (Cymbals): Sharp, metallic, and electrifying — they cut through distraction and draw every listener back to the present moment.

• Tambura / Ektara: With their gentle, unwavering drone, they form the spiritual foundation on which everything else rests.

• Kartal & Lezim: The clappers and jingles awaken the dancer within — inviting the body to express what the heart can no longer contain.

Each sound has its place. Each beat carries centuries of devotion. These instruments are not merely tools — they are companions in worship, guiding the devotee from the outer world to the inner sanctum.

Trance Through Bhakti

What’s most remarkable is the trance-like state that begins to take over. It’s effortless and natural. As the singing continues, the repetition of the chants and the rhythm of the drums gradually dissolve the ego. Something ancient is awakened. Devotees begin to sway, to dance, to cry, to smile. It’s not a performance. It’s presence. This is not merely entertainment where heartbeats sync with rhythms, and every voice becomes part of a larger whole. People who may have never met before find themselves singing in harmony, dancing barefoot on temple grounds, intoxicated not by the world — but by bhakti.

A Living Tradition

During Ashadhi Ekadashi, this holy soundscape transforms into a shared tribute. The tradition continues in numerous temples and households.

In a rapidly moving world, Ashadhi Ekadashi encourages us to pause, listen, and feel. The music draws us back — not only to God but also to our own hearts.

May the sacred rhythms of this day resonate within your soul long after the cymbals have quieted.