Massive Devotee Turnout in Pune for Palkhi Darshan; Spotlight on the Historic Nivdung Vitthal Temple

Nana Peth, 21st June 2025: The spiritual fervor of Ashadhi Wari reached a crescendo in Pune as lakhs of Warkaris and local residents gathered across the city for the darshan of the Palkhis of Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj and Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj. With both processions making a halt in the city, central areas like Nana Peth and Bhavani Peth have transformed into vibrant spiritual hubs.

The Palkhi of Sant Tukaram Maharaj is currently stationed at the historic Shri Nivdung Vitthal Temple in Nana Peth. Meanwhile, Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj’s Palkhi has halted at the Palakhi Vitthal Mandir in Bhavani Peth. Authorities have implemented crowd management measures, including separate darshan queues for men and women, and a strong police presence has been deployed around both temples to ensure smooth proceedings.

The Nivdung Vitthal Temple holds immense historical and spiritual importance. As lakhs line up for darshan, the temple becomes not just a place of worship but a focal point of Maharashtra’s deep-rooted Warkari tradition.

To accommodate the massive influx of Warkaris, the Pune Municipal Corporation and local organizations have made extensive arrangements. Community halls, schools, and public grounds have been opened for accommodation. Free food stalls, drinking water facilities, and mobile toilets have been set up across the city. Special medical camps have also been deployed at various locations to address any health emergencies.

Additionally, considering the ongoing monsoon, temporary shelters and rainproof mandaps have been erected at key resting points. Disinfection drives and mosquito-control measures have been carried out in all areas where Warkaris are camping.

As the city immerses itself in devotion, the seamless coordination between civic bodies, police, religious trusts, and volunteers stands as a testament to Pune’s hospitality and reverence for this age-old spiritual tradition.