Abhanga is a form of devotional poetry sung in praise of the Hindu god Vitthal, also known as Vithoba. The word "abhang" comes from a for "non-" and bhanga for "ending" or "interrupting", in other words, a flawless, continuous process, in this case referring to a poem.[1] By contrast, the devotional songs known as Bhajans focus on the inward journey. Abhangs are more exuberant expressions of the communitarian experience.[2] Abhanga is considered a form of the ovi. Abhangs are sung during pilgrimage to the temples of Pandharpur, by the devotees.[3][4]
- ^ Gowri Ramnarayan: Eclectic range at The Hindu, 8 November 2010
- ^ Serish Nanisetti, Gowri Ramnarayan: A mix of rhythm and melody at The Hindu, 7 November 2010
- ^ "Articles – Devotional Music of Maharashtra – by Chaitanya Kunte". swarganga.org. Retrieved 22 May 2015.
- ^ Christian Lee Novetzke (13 August 2013). Religion and Public Memory: A Cultural History of Saint Namdev in India. Columbia University Press. pp. 275, 279. ISBN 978-0-231-51256-5.