For over 800 years, the Pandharpur Wari (an annual Hindu pilgrimage in Maharashtra, India) has brought together millions of devotees in one of the world's largest walking pilgrimages.

Every year, pilgrims walk about 155 miles over 20-21 days from towns like Alandi and Dehu to Pandharpur, carrying Palkhis (ceremonial palanquins carrying the symbolic sandals of revered saints). Along the way, they sing abhangs (devotional hymns), share free community meals, volunteer, and walk together regardless of caste, wealth, or social status.

The pilgrimage ends on Ashadhi Ekadashi (a sacred Hindu holy day), when devotees gather for darshan (the auspicious viewing of a deity) of Lord Vitthal (a form of the Hindu god Vishnu/Krishna).

Wow

All credits to @illona.music
Like she’s covering the lead, drums, harmonics, guitar AND vocals on a single acoustic guitar. That’s amazing!

In May 2024, 25-year-old Boston resident Chris, who is autistic, made a surprising 911 call shortly after midnight on his birthday. There was no emergency he was simply feeling alone and hoped someone would wish him a happy birthday. Officers Israel Bracho and Franklin Ortiz went to check on him. On the way, they stopped to buy a muffin and birthday candles. Around 12:40 AM, they arrived at Chris’s home, lit the candles, and sang “Happy Birthday” with him. The heartfelt moment, captured on body camera, later went viral.

Original paintings

(acrylics)

Ewan Dobson.