What historical context and examples are given for the practice of performing Parayans and Saptahs?

The provided text asserts that the practice of performing Parayans (readings) and Saptahs (weekly recitations) is very ancient, with roots tracing back to the Vedic era. According to Chapter 0, this tradition is not new and is seen daily with great Sanskrit works such as the Vedas, Bhagavata, Ramayana, and Yoga Vasistha. The text also notes that this devotional practice extends to world-revered Marathi works like Shri Dnyaneshwari, Shri Nath Bhagavata, and Shri Dasbodh. It clarifies, however, that these specific examples are knowledge texts rather than biographies, illustrating the long-standing tradition of devotional reading.