Vocalist Rahul Deshpande’s Ashadhi Wari Resonates With Nagpur Citizens For a few hours on Sunday evening, the journey to Pandharpur took on a new dimension in Nagpur as acclaimed vocalist Rahul Deshpande’s Abhangawari concert recreated the devotional fervor of the Ashadhi Wari. The event unfolded at the Kavivarya Suresh Bhat Auditorium, where chants of "Ram Krishna Hari" filled the air, drawing a packed audience. Deshpande’s performance, dedicated to Maharashtra’s revered saint-poets, blended Hindustani classical music with the timeless poetry of the Bhakti tradition, offering a musical pilgrimage through the verses of Warkari saints. The concert opened with a traditional gajar, setting a devotional tone before Deshpande transitioned into ragadari compositions, abhangs, and bhajans cherished by generations of devotees. His sister, Deepti Mate, joined him onstage for part of the performance, adding a familial touch to the spiritual celebration. Among the compositions featured were Rajasa Sukumara, Pandharpuricha Nila, Kam Krodh Amhi Marava, Bhagyada, Shriranga Vitthal, Jagadodharana, Khel Mandiyela, Lakshmi Vallabha, and the concluding Savale Parabrahma in Bhairavi. Familiar favorites like Kanada Raja Pandharicha drew loud applause, with many audience members joining Deshpande in chorus, transforming the concert into a communal celebration of Warkari heritage. The performance culminated in a collective Vitthal gajar, as hundreds of voices rose together in chants of "Vitthal Vitthal," evoking the atmosphere of the annual Ashadhi Ekadashi pilgrimage to Pandharpur. For Nagpur’s audience, the event was more than a concert—it was an opportunity to relive the spirit of the Wari without leaving the city.#kavivarya_suresh_bhat_auditorium #rahul_deshpande #ashadhi_wari #warkari_saints #abhangawari_2026
