Here is a detailed comparison between the Mahanubhava sect of Chakradhara and the Varkari sect:
Mahanubhav Sect of Chakradhara
Origin and Founders:
- Founder: Chakradhara (also known as Dattatreya Prabhu or Chakrapani), who established the sect in the 13th century in Maharashtra.
- Background: Chakradhara was a disciple of Govinda Prabhu and the sect is based on the teachings of Krishna, Dattatreya, and other incarnations of Vishnu.
Beliefs and Practices:
- Monotheism: Strong emphasis on the worship of a single deity, Krishna, who is considered the supreme God.
- Incarnations: Recognizes five main incarnations of God: Krishna, Dattatreya, Chakradhara, Govinda Prabhu, and Sarvajna Prabhu.
- Scriptures: The main texts include the Leela Charitra and the Sutrapatha, which document the life and teachings of Chakradhara.
- Asceticism: Advocates a strict lifestyle including celibacy, vegetarianism, and renunciation of material possessions.
- Ethics and Morality: Emphasizes personal ethics and a moral code of conduct, including non-violence, truthfulness, and compassion.
Social Structure:
- Ascetic Community: The sect primarily consists of ascetics who have renounced worldly life, but it also includes householders who follow the teachings while living a family life.
- Initiation: Members undergo a rigorous initiation process to become a part of the community.
Worship and Rituals:
- Simple Worship: Focuses on simple and direct worship of Krishna without elaborate rituals.
- Pilgrimage: Follows specific pilgrimages to holy places associated with the life of Chakradhara and other revered figures of the sect.
Varkari Sect
Origin and Founders:
- Founders: Saints like Dnyaneshwar, Namdev, Tukaram, Eknath, and others who propagated the Bhakti movement in Maharashtra during the 13th-17th centuries.
- Background: The Varkari sect developed as a part of the broader Bhakti movement, emphasizing devotion to Vithoba (a form of Krishna/Vishnu).
Beliefs and Practices:
- Devotion (Bhakti): Centers around intense devotion and love for Vithoba (Vitthala) of Pandharpur.
- Inclusiveness: Advocates an inclusive approach, welcoming all castes and communities.
- Scriptures: Important texts include the Abhangas (devotional hymns) written by the saints, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Haripath.
- Community Living: Encourages a communal lifestyle where devotees gather for singing, dancing, and reciting hymns.
Social Structure:
- Pilgrimage (Wari): The hallmark of the Varkari sect is the annual pilgrimage to the Vithoba temple in Pandharpur, known as Wari, which sees participation from thousands of devotees.
- Non-Ascetic: Unlike the Mahanubhava sect, the Warkaris do not necessarily renounce worldly life and include householders who live in society but follow the sect's teachings.
- Democratic Values: Emphasizes equality and brotherhood among its members, breaking down social and caste barriers.
Worship and Rituals:
- Bhajans and Kirtans: Engages in communal singing (bhajans) and kirtans (devotional songs) as a primary form of worship.
- Daily Practices: Encourages daily recitation of the Haripath and participation in local gatherings to maintain devotion.
Comparison Summary:
- Founders and Origins: The Mahanubhava sect was founded by Chakradhara, while the Warkari sect was propagated by various saints.
- Deities Worshipped: Mahanubhava centers on Krishna and his incarnations; Warkari devotion is towards Vithoba.
- Lifestyle: Mahanubhava promotes asceticism and renunciation; Warkari includes householders and promotes a communal, inclusive approach.
- Rituals: Mahanubhava prefers simple worship and specific pilgrimages; Warkari emphasizes bhajans, kirtans, and the annual Pandharpur pilgrimage.
- Social Inclusiveness: Both sects promote ethical living and devotion, but Warkari is more inclusive and community-oriented, while Mahanubhava maintains a more ascetic and strict lifestyle