The revered Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi commenced its annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur from the temple town of Dehu on Tuesday, marking the beginning of the cherished Wari tradition. As per custom, the palkhi will halt at Inamdar Wada on the night of its departure and is scheduled to reach Akurdi in Pimpri-Chinchwad on June 19. Meanwhile, the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi will begin its journey from Alandi on Thursday, with a night halt at Gandhi Wada, and will proceed to Pune on Friday morning.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol, was present in Dehu to participate in the ceremonial departure of the Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi. The leaders paid their respects and offered prayers, joining thousands of warkaris in the spiritually charged atmosphere.
On the same occasion, CM Fadnavis also inaugurated the newly constructed auditorium and art gallery at Santpeeth in Chikhali. The event saw the presence of prominent dignitaries including MP Shrirang Appa Barne, MLA Mahesh Landge, MLA Amit Gorkhe, and noted scholar Prof. Sadanand More.
Both the Sant Tukaram Maharaj and Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj palkhis are expected to arrive in Pune on Friday. During their halt in the city, the Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi will be stationed at Nivdunga Vitthal Mandir, while the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi will rest at Vithoba Mandir. After a day’s halt, the processions will continue their sacred journey to Pandharpur, upholding a centuries-old spiritual tradition that draws lakhs of devotees every year.
