Meet Abdul Razzaq Chacha: The Hyderabad Man Who Travels Every Year to Massage Warkaris in Pune
Nana Peth, 10th July 2026: Every year, as the sacred palanquins (Palkhis) of Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj and Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj arrive in Pune, thousands of devotees receive food, medical aid and other assistance from citizens and social organisations. Amid these acts of service, one man has quietly upheld a remarkable tradition for the last three decades—travelling all the way from Hyderabad simply to massage tired Warkaris.
At the Sakhalipir Talim Mandal in Nana Peth, where the Palkhis halt during their Pune stay, Abdul Razzaq “Razzaq Chacha” has become a familiar and beloved face. For the past 30 years, he has dedicated himself to easing the pain and fatigue of Warkaris by offering free massages using herbal oil that he prepares himself.
Although Razzaq Chacha now lives in Narayan Peth area of Hyderabad and has been settled there for the past eight to ten years, he never misses the annual Wari. As soon as the Palkhi schedule is announced, he travels to Pune with one purpose—to continue his selfless service to the pilgrims.
A traditional herbal healer by profession, Razzaq Chacha prepares medicinal oils from herbs and has long been associated with natural treatments. During the Wari, however, his focus shifts entirely to serving devotees who have walked hundreds of kilometres to seek the blessings of Lord Vitthal.
The sight of a Muslim man lovingly massaging Hindu pilgrims has become a powerful symbol of communal harmony and humanity that transcends religious and social divisions.
Several Warkaris expressed gratitude for his unwavering service. Many said they have been receiving massages from Razzaq Chacha for years and look forward to meeting him during every Wari. They said the treatment provides immense relief after long hours of walking and praised his dedication, noting that his service sends a strong message of unity beyond caste and religion.
Recalling how the journey began, Razzaq Chacha said he was inspired nearly three decades ago by Ravindra Malvadkar, president of Sakhalipir Talim Mandal, who encouraged him to serve the Warkaris.
“Since then, I have continued this service every year without fail. Whenever the Palkhi schedule is announced, I come from Hyderabad to Pune.
Serving the Warkaris gives me immense happiness and peace. Life has brought many challenges, but I believe this selfless service has helped me overcome every hardship,” he said.
As lakhs of devotees continue their spiritual journey towards Pandharpur, Razzaq Chacha’s annual pilgrimage of compassion reminds everyone that the true spirit of the Wari lies not only in devotion but also in selfless service, kindness and humanity that knows no boundaries.
