Vitthal Birdev Festival is celebrated annually at Pattan Kodoli, a rural village in South Maharashtra, dedicated to Shri Vitthal Birdev God also known as “Jodich Bhagavan”. Here lacs of devotees from different states, languages, socioeconomic status come together to pay homage to the revered god, Shri Vitthal Birdev.
This yatra, filled with colorful rituals and cultural significance, marks an important occasion for the shepherd community (Dhangar) and others who revere Shri Vitthal Birdev. The fair is not only a religious event but also a cultural gathering, featuring traditional music, dance, and rituals that have been passed down through generations.Chief event during 5 day festival is Hedam dance, performed by spiritual leader, Farande baba, when he dances devotees throw abundant turmeric powder and coconut pieces.
One of the highlights of the Pattan Kodoli Yatra is the appearance of the community’s spiritual leader, known as the “Farande Baba,considered as messenger of God.His presence is considered a divine blessing, drawing huge crowds. Devotees seek his guidance and participate in the various offerings and rituals conducted throughout the Yatra. As the festival continues to grow each year, the Pattan Kodoli Yatra remains a testament to the enduring faith, unity, and rich cultural heritage of the people who honor Shri Vitthal Birdev God. Whether you are a devotee or a curious traveler, the yatra offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the deep-rooted traditions of rural Maharashtra.
AS HE WALKS, DEVOTEES PUT THEIR CHILD BELOW HIS FEET, ASSUMING THE BLESINGS FROM HIM (AS HE IS CONSIDERED MESSENGER OF GOD)
ONCE FARANDE BABA ENTERS THE VILLAGE, HE SITS ON A STONE BED, WHERE DEVOTEES COME AND GET HIS BLESSINGS
CHILD IS THROWN FROM GALLARY OF TEMPLE AT HANDS OF THE PRIEST, IN BELIEF THAT THIS GIVES LONGEVITY TO THE CHILD
DEVOTEES BEAT DRUM DURING THIS FESTIVAL, WHICH GIVES A UNIQUE PATTERN
DEVOTEES STAND AND GET HIT BY HUNTER, WITH BELIEF THAT THEIR SINS WILL GET NULLIFIED
SMALL CHILDREN ARE ALSO ENTHUSIASTICALLY PARTICIPATING IN THIS EVENT
CHATRIS (UMBRELLAS) ARE LANDMARK OF THIS FESTIVAL, DEVOTEE GROUPS BRING THEIR OWN COLOURED UMBRELLA BEFORE FANADE BABA ENTERS FOR HEDAM DANCE
DEVOTEE IRRESPECTIVE OF HIS AGE IS WORSHIPED BY ALL OTHER DEVOTEES
LACS OF DEVOTEES BATHED IN YELLOW ARE SEEN IN THIS IMAGE
ALL DEVOTEES THROW TERMERIC POWDER AT HEDAM BABA , DURING HEDAM DANCE
THIS IS BIRD EYE VIEW OF HEDAM DANCE, WHERE FARANDE BABA PLAYS WITH HIS DISCIPLE, WHILE DRUMMERS PLAY DRUM BY SIDE AND DEVOTEES THROW TERMERIC POWDER AND COCONUT PIECES
DISCIPLE JUMPS DURING HEDAM DANCE
FARANDE BABA, DISCPLE, DRUMERS AND DEVOTEES
HERE WE CAN SEE ALL ELEMENTS OF THIS FESTIVAL TOGETHER, ALL BATHED IN YELLOW
HERE WE CAN SEE ALL ELEMENTS OF THIS FESTIVAL TOGETHER, ALL BATHED IN YELLOW
