Pune: Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi Sets Off On Sacred Journey To Pandharpur From Alandi
Alandi, 11th June 2023: The rhythmic beats of the taal and mridang, accompanied by the melodious strains of Hari’s veena, resonated through the air as devotees chanted “Vitthal Vitthal” with utmost devotion. The departure ceremony of Shri Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi took place today, as the atmosphere reverberated with the resounding call of “Dnyanoba Mauli,” “Mauli, Mauli.”
With a head adorned with a Tulsi Vrindavan and a Dindi-flag held firmly in hand, the Warkaris set off from Alandi to embark on the sacred journey to Pandharpur for Ashadhi Wari.
Pune District Guardian Minister Chandrakant Patil paid homage to the palanquin at the Samadhi temple in Alandi. Prominent figures including MP Shrirang Barne, MLA Shrikant Bharatiya, former Minister of State Sanjay alias Bala Bhegde, District Collector Dr Rajesh Deshmukh, Chief Trustee of Sri Santshrestha Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Sansthan Yogesh Desai, Trustee Adv. Vikas Dhage, and Balasaheb Pawar-Arfalkar, the descendant of Guru Haibat Baba, were present on this auspicious occasion.
Following the ceremonial procession of the palanquin through the streets of Alandi, the devotees congregated at Gandhiwada for a soul-stirring devotional gathering at the Alandi Sansthan. The departure ceremony, known as “Yachi Dehi Yachi Dola,” drew a multitude of Warkaris who sought to experience the profound spiritual atmosphere.
Enhanced Facilities for Pilgrims
To ensure the comfort and convenience of the pilgrims participating in the Ashadhi procession, the district administration, temple administration, and the Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad municipalities have made extensive preparations. A range of amenities and services has been organized, including provisions for water and electricity, medical teams, a meticulously planned palanquin route schedule, metal detectors at the temple entrance, easily accessible toilets, a police help center, fire-fighting systems, ambulances, boats in the riverbed, informative notice boards, and CCTV surveillance. Furthermore, important instructions are being conveyed to the attendees through sound systems, ensuring a safe and well-coordinated event.
The departure ceremony of the Shri Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi marks the commencement of a sacred journey that encapsulates the spirit of devotion and unity among the Warkari community. As the Warkaris embark on this hallowed pilgrimage, they carry with them a profound sense of reverence and unwavering faith, setting the stage for a transformative experience that unites hearts and souls in the name of spirituality.
The Palkhi will reach Pune city tomorrow (June 12) via Alandi Road.
