Shri Vitthal Aarti

Meaning

This aarti by Sant Namdev is the best-known aarti of Vitthal of Pandharpur; on Ashadhi and Kartiki Ekadashi it is sung in every home.

1. For twenty-eight ages Vitthal has stood on the brick, with Rakhumai beside him on his left in divine beauty. The Supreme himself came to meet his devotee Pundalik. The Bhima (Chandrabhaga) river flows past his feet and uplifts the world.

Refrain: Victory to you, Pandurang. Beloved of Rakhumai and Rahi, dearest one, come to us.

2. Tulsi beads at his neck, hands resting on his waist, yellow silk around him and musk on his forehead. The gods come to see him every day; Garuda and Hanuman stand before him.

3. Blessed is the sound of your flute, O guardian of this holy place. Golden lotuses and a garland of forest flowers hang at your neck. Rahi, Rakhumabai and all the queens wave the lamp before dark-skinned King Vithoba.

4. Devotees wave the aarti, bring baskets of offerings and float lamps on the Chandrabhaga. Vaishnavas dance with their processions and flags — how can the glory of Pandharpur be described?

5. On Ashadhi and Kartiki Ekadashi the devotees come and bathe in the Chandrabhaga. Even a moment's sight of him brings liberation. Namdev lovingly waves the lamp before Keshava (Vitthal).