Pandharpur cha raja means Vithoba. Like we have Tirupati Balaji in Andhra Pradesh, reincarnation of Lord Vishnu, similarly we have Vitthal- reincarnation of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna in Pandharpur, Maharashtra. Ashadi Ekadashi marks the beginning of the pilgrimage for lakhs of devotees who take the “Wari” to meet the God of the poor, our beloved Vitthal. It was Pundalik who was serving his old parents while Krishna came to see him.So devotedly he was serving his parents…Pundalik gave Lord Krishna a brick to stand on until he finished his duties towards taking care of his parents.
Krishna was very moved by his devotion. He asked Pundalik to ask for a boon. Pundalik said, “what more can I ask when the Lord himself waits for me”. Pundalik requested Lord Krishna to stay on the Earth and take care of his devotees. This is the reason why we see Lord Krishna standing as Vitthal on a brick. Lord Vitthal is seen wearing fish earrings. This is so because it is believed that a poor fisherman brought 2 fishes as offerings to the Lord. Vitthal accepts everything from devotees with love. Shri Hari Vitthal Jai Hari Vitthal… Shri Hari Vitthal