“We are all quite similar,” says Mahesh Kale. “How do you react when you are happy or sad? I do the same, more or less. Let us talk about food — we all consume grains, dairy, vegetables, and some meats if we are non-vegetarian; these are the core ingredients for people all over the world.”

“Likewise, if you look at music from a macro point of view, it is built on seven notes everywhere,” says the vocalist ahead of his stop in Bengaluru during his India tour with Abhangwari.

Abhangwari stems from the centuries-old Warkari tradition where pilgrims on their way to Pandharpur would walk for days across Maharashtra, collectively singing abhangs (devotional hymns) and chanting the name of Lord Vitthal in a shared spiritual experience. These devotees are known as Warkaris.

Mahesh who was born in Pune and has personally experienced this tradition, believes in “sharing it with people far and wide”.

“There is a growing awareness of Indian classical music, but when you blend it with the universal wisdom of the saints, it becomes more appealing and easier to understand. The philosophy is simple and straightforward, reminding you of the right things to be done.”

Mahesh recalls a line from the ‘Vrukshavalli Amha Soyari Vanachare,’ a devotional poem by the 17th-century Marathi poet Sant Tukaram which refers to nature as “our companion.”

“That is rather profound; we breathe in oxygen given to us by trees and eat what it produces; it brings an understanding and awareness of Mother Earth. Another abhang exhorts one to be innocent and pure, keeping the mind humble, because that is when one is in the best place to receive. These are not religious texts and anyone can relate to these truths. I doubt there is any faith that would refute it.”

Mahesh says the years have seen Bengaluru evolve into one of the major hubs for this “recreation of Wari through music”. Traditionally, devotees cover 250 kms in 18-20 days and he says putting oneself through challenging situations requires commitment and passion, much like what marathoners and endurance sportsmen display.

“My commitment to Indian classical music and my passion for the wisdom of the saints enable me to undertake this every year. Worship is universal and ultimately, whatever name you chant, the feeling of worship you experience cannot be expressed through words.”

“I am grateful music is a unifier and that I am able to do my part in this.”

Abhangwari by Mahesh Kale will take place at Chamara Vajra, Palace Grounds on July 18 from 7pm. Tickets starting from ₹199 on BookMyShow.