Rains Worsen, Indrayani Swells, Yet Warkaris’ Spirit Unshaken as Sant Dnyaneshwar Palkhi Moves Toward Pune
Reported by Varad Bhatkhande
Alandi, 19th June 2025: Undeterred by relentless rains and rising flood risks, thousands of Warkaris begin their sacred Ashadhi Wari journey from Alandi to Pandharpur today, carrying the revered Sant Dnyaneshwar Palkhi with chants of “Mauli Mauli” echoing through soaked streets.
Over the past 24 hours, continuous downpours have submerged key parts of Alandi and pushed the Indrayani River to alarming levels. Ghats have disappeared under water, mobile toilets became unusable and several temporary shelters turned inaccessible due to flooding. Yet, the collective devotion of the Warkaris remained unshaken.
Despite logistical challenges, the procession has begun as scheduled. The Warkaris will halt overnight tomorrow in Bhavani Peth, Pune, before continuing on their spiritual trek to Pandharpur. Accommodations like dharmashalas, event halls, and housing societies that usually serve as resting spots have been overwhelmed, with some pilgrims forced to find shelter in makeshift areas.
Adding to the urgency, a dramatic rescue by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) saved a devotee who was swept away in the flooded Indrayani, a reminder of the risks at hand. In response, prohibitory orders were issued around dangerous riverbanks, traffic diversions were enforced, and all vehicular access to Alandi was restricted.
“The rain is just Lord Vitthala testing us,” said Warkari Datta Mali. “But we are determined. This won’t stop us. We’ll reach Pandharpur on time and have Mauli’s darshan.”
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 3) Dr. Shivaji Pawar told, “There wasn’t much inconvenience caused by the rain, we managed everything well. However, the water level of the Indrayani River has risen significantly due to heavy rainfall. To ensure safety, we took precautions by keeping Warkaris away from the river and ghats, and we deployed additional police personnel. The response from the Warkaris has been tremendous; nothing has dampened their spirits.”
Authorities remain on high alert, with teams ready for emergencies and arrangements in place to manage the massive crowd. Despite the odds, the centuries-old tradition surges forward, wet, weary, but resolute.
