Ashadhi Wari Sparks Crores in Trade at Pune’s Market Yard; Surge in Grocery and Leaf Plate Sales
Market Yard, 21st June 2025: The annual Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage has once again brought a massive economic boost to Pune’s Market Yard, with crores of rupees worth of business recorded in just a few days. As the revered Palkhis (palanquins) of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj pause in Pune for their traditional two-day halt, hundreds of Dindis (pilgrim groups) have stocked up on food and supplies for the next leg of their journey toward Pandharpur.
The Bhusar Bazaar (wholesale grocery market) has seen an estimated turnover of ₹3 to ₹4 crore during this brief stopover, according to local traders. The adjoining vegetable market too has reported sales worth nearly ₹1 crore, as Dindi leaders prefer bulk purchasing of long-lasting produce.
“Before continuing the Wari, most Dindis procure essentials like onions, potatoes, garlic, ginger, and chilies—enough to last at least 15 days,” said Vilas Bhujbal, former president of the Agents’ Association. “Pune is the true launch point for the full Wari, and purchases here are critical for smooth travel ahead.”
Balasaheb Konde, head of the Jaggery and Grocery Section at the APMC, noted, “Dindis from across Maharashtra rely heavily on Pune’s Market Yard for their kitchen needs. This results in a significant surge in trade, crossing several crores every year.”
While Warkaris (devotees) receive free meals and lodging during their halt in Pune, they switch to self-sufficiency once the Wari resumes. Dindi leaders take charge of logistics, ensuring the group carries adequate rations, utensils, and cookware.
“Currently, over 25,000 Warkaris are camped around the Market Yard. Most Dindis purchase enough grocery stock for 15 days, buying at wholesale rates before resuming the journey,” said Rajendra Bathiya, former president of The Poona Merchants’ Chamber.
Items in high demand include rice, wheat, jowar, lentils, flour, spices, cooking oil, and durable vegetables that won’t spoil easily. Perishable goods are then replenished every few days as the pilgrimage progresses.
In addition to groceries, Dindi organizers are also turning to eco-friendly dining options. Traders report a sharp rise in the sale of patravali (leaf plates) and dron (leaf bowls), with nearly 3 to 4 lakh units sold in just two to three days. “Each Dindi requires thousands of leaf plates for the road ahead. With growing awareness of environmental sustainability, demand has surged this year,” said one of the local traders.
