As Maharashtra celebrates the auspicious occasion of Ashadhi Ekadashi, also known as Devshayani Ekadashi, popular actor Shriya Pilgaonkar shared her thoughts on the spiritual significance of the festival, her family’s traditions, and her deeply held wish to participate in the iconic Pandharpur Wari. The festival, which marks the beginning of Lord Vishnu’s four-month cosmic slumber known as Yoga Nidra and heralds the commencement of Chaturmas, holds a special place in the hearts of millions across the state. Reflecting on the day, Shriya spoke about how her family observes traditional fasts at home, preparing traditional dishes like sabudana, rajgira, and fresh fruits. She emphasized that fasting is not merely about food restrictions but serves as an opportunity to step back from daily routines and distractions, allowing one to turn inward for quiet prayer and spiritual reflection.
Growing up in a culturally rich environment, Shriya credited her mother, veteran actor Supriya Pilgaonkar, for shaping her understanding of Ashadhi Ekadashi from a young age. She fondly recalled watching the live coverage of the Pandharpur Wari on television alongside her mother, who would play devotional Marathi abhangas and explain the deep spiritual essence behind the centuries-old tradition. Shriya expressed immense awe at the sheer devotion of the Warkari pilgrims, who walk for days across long distances, chanting sacred prayers in devotion to Lord Vitthal. She noted that whether one is deeply religious or not, witnessing such collective faith, surrender, and unity is an incredibly moving experience that stays with a person forever.
Highlighting her personal connection to devotional music during the festival, the actor shared that listening to Sant Tukaram’s peaceful abhang ‘Sundar Te Dhyan’ brings her immense solace. She also expressed her love for the energetic track ‘Mauli’ composed by music duo Ajay-Atul, noting how perfectly it encapsulates the joyful and uplifting energy of the Warkaris during their journey to the Vithoba Temple in Pandharpur. Expressing her heartfelt desire for the future, Shriya stated that she hopes to experience the transformative power and atmosphere of the Pandharpur Wari pilgrimage in person at least once in her lifetime.
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