Pandharpur To London Dindi: Vitthal Devotees Make History, Set To Carry 'Pandharichi Wari' Across Seven Seas

The Pandhari Wari is setting out on an extraordinary expedition across the seven seas, led by Anil Khedkar, a devotee of Vitthal from Ahilyanagar, who now resides in London. His Dindi will transport the Padukas of Lord Vitthal directly from Pandharpur to London, spanning an impressive 18,000 kilometers through 22 countries from April 14 to June 21.

The sacred Padukas were recently worshipped at the Vitthal Temple prior to the Dindi's departure. Khedkar, who has previously journeyed from Alandi to Pandharpur, is dedicated to establishing a Vitthal temple in London and consecrating these Padukas according to Warkari customs.

The planning for this distinctive Dindi involved careful preparation over a six-month period, including obtaining permits for vehicle travel through the 22 countries. Khedkar and his team collaborated with various organizations, such as Marathi mandals, ISKCON, and Akshardham, to assist with their journey.

On Monday morning, after properly honoring the symbolic footwear of Vitthal at the Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple in Pandharpur, Dindi began the journey to London. The Marathi Mandal in Britain will construct the Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Temple in London.

The journey has sparked enthusiasm among devotees, with celebrations resonating with the sounds of Tal, Mridangam, and Harinama. The Dindi is scheduled to conclude in London on June 21. Khedkar underscores the significance of disseminating the teachings of the Warkari sect globally and aspires to build a temple that reflects the essence of Pandharpur.