Sant Bahinabai: The Female Mystic Who Documented the Varkari Spiritual Lineage

Today is Indira Ekadashi. As thousands of Varkaris observe a strict fast and seek the darshan of Shri Vitthal and Rukmini Mata in Pandharpur, our thoughts turn to Sant Bahinabai. She was a devoted disciple of Sant Tukaram Maharaj. She holds a completely unique place in the Varkari sampradaya, composing beautiful poetry and giving this spiritual tradition its defining structure.

Sant Kripa Jhali, Imarat Phalali

Sant Bahinabai is known best for her immortal abhang. 'Sant Kripa Jhali, Imarat Phalali' (By the grace of the Saints, the edifice was built and bore fruit). With these lines, she paints the Varkari sampradaya as a magnificent spiritual temple. Its construction belongs entirely to the unbroken lineage of great Saints.

• The Foundation: She credits Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj for laying the strong foundation (Dnyandeve rachila paya) of this path of devotion.
• The Walls: Sant Namdev Maharaj expanded its walls (Nama tayacha kinkar) by taking the name of Shri Vitthal far and wide.
• The Pillars: Sant Eknath Maharaj provided the central pillar (Janardani Eknath, khamb dila Bhagwat) by bringing the Bhagawat Puran to the masses.
• The Pinnacle: Sant Tukaram Maharaj is the pinnacle (Tuka jhalase kalas), crowning the structure with his pure devotion.
• The Worshipper: Bahinabai humbly calls herself the flag fluttering on this temple (Bhajani Bahina phadkati dhwaja).

Life and Spiritual Journey

Born in Devgaon, Sant Bahinabai faced severe worldly hardships. Her life was filled with domestic struggles and bitter societal opposition, yet her devotion to Shri Vitthal stood absolute. The moment she heard the Kirtan and abhangs of Sant Tukaram Maharaj, she accepted him as her Guru. Her journey proves one profound truth. Pure devotion easily transcends all social barriers.

Indira Ekadashi and Varkari Devotion

Today is Indira Ekadashi. Devotees are observing a strict upvas to honor Lord Vishnu and seek salvation for their ancestors. In Pandharpur, the temple is completely alive with special poojas and the continuous chanting of the holy name. The gates remain open for extended hours today. This allows the massive crowds ample time for Padsparsha and Mukh darshan. Devotees are advised to plan their visit carefully and cooperate with the temple administration. Whether you stand in the darshan queues or pray from home, reciting the abhangs of Sant Bahinabai brings immense peace. Her words serve as a gentle reminder. We are safely sheltered under a spiritual edifice built by the sacrifices of great Saints.

May Shri Vitthal and Rukmini Mata bless everyone this Ekadashi. Let us keep the flag of the Varkari dharma flying high. This is exactly what Sant Bahinabai envisioned.