Celebrating Ashadhi Ekadashi at Heritage International School: A Day of Tradition and Spirituality

Ashadhi Ekadashi, an auspicious day dedicated to Lord Shri Vitthal, was celebrated with great enthusiasm at Heritage International School, Kasaramboli, Pune, on 16th July 2024. The event aimed to educate children about the significance of our traditions and the teachings of saints who championed social equality and moral values.

The celebration saw students dressed in vibrant traditional attire, participating eagerly in a range of competitions such as Shloka and Abhanga recitation, skit performances, Palkhi making, Tulsi Vrundavan decoration, Lezim, classical dance, and playing musical instruments like taal and pakhawaj. The guidance of Mrs. Prajkta Amrale and the greenhouse teachers ensured the smooth conduct of all activities.

The event began with a floral tribute to the idols of Vitthal and Rukmini, followed by the Palkhi poojan performed by Principal Dr Renu Patil and social worker Mr Ganesh Bhilare. Students, adorned in traditional dress, enchanted the atmosphere with Harinama and carried out a procession, highlighted by a captivating dance performance. The theme of the program, “Bolava Vithhal Pahava Vithhal,” resonated throughout the celebration.

Principal Dr Renu Patil and the respected management delivered inspiring speeches, encouraging students to embrace the teachings of great saints and uphold Indian traditions and culture. The festive spirit was palpable, with students performing dances to the song “Vitthal, Vitthal” and participating in traditional activities. Boys and girls dressed as Warkaris, with girls carrying tulsi plants and boys holding cymbals, enchanted the name of “Lord Vitthal.” The students also chanted Bhajans like "Vitthala Hari Om Vitthala" and "Jai Jai Ram Krishna Hari," and enjoyed traditional games like Fugadi and Rigan.

Various competitions such as Shloka and Abhanga recitation, Kirtan, Bharud, storytelling, Palkhi making, and skits about saints like Changdev, Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, and Tukaram Maharaj added to the richness of the celebration. These activities aimed to familiarize students with the tradition of Payiwari, a renowned pilgrimage marked by discipline, coordination, and devotion to Lord Vitthal, also referred to as "Mauli."

The event provided students with a deep understanding of Maharashtra's cultural heritage. The management members, including Mr Krishna Bhilare, Mrs Sangeeta Bhilare, Mr Kunal Bhilare, Mrs Yashaswini Bhilare, and Samidha Bhilare, commended the students and staff for organizing a well-managed program that beautifully imparted the essence of tradition through celebration.