With the Chant of “Vitthunama”, the Palkhi Procession of Jagadguru Shri Sant Tukaram Maharaj Sets Off

Dehu | Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis visited the holy site of Dehu and offered prayers at the Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple, Shri Sant Tukaram Maharaj Shila Temple, and Shri Ram Temple at the Jagadguru Shri Sant Tukaram Maharaj Sansthan Mandir. The Chief Minister performed the ceremonial rituals including Ganesh Poojan, Kalash Poojan, and Padya Poojan, and conducted the traditional Palkhi Prasthan Pooja followed by Aarti.

Amid the rhythmic beats of taal and mridang, the atmosphere was soaked in devotion, as Warkaris immersed themselves in spirituality with chants of “Gyanba Tukaram” and “Mauli, Mauli” echoing in the air. Carrying Tulsi Vrindavans on their heads and holding flags and Dindis in their hands, the Warkaris began their journey from Dehu toward Pandharpur as part of the Ashadhi Wari, with Chief Minister Fadnavis flagging off the procession. A large number of Warkaris had gathered in Dehu for this sacred pilgrimage.

Also present on the occasion were Union Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol, MPs Sunetra Pawar and Shrirang Barne, MLAs Mahesh Landge, Sunil Shelke, Shankar Jagtap, Vijay Shivtare, Amit Gorkhe, Uma Khapre, Shankar Mandekar, Divisional Commissioner Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar, District Collector Jitendra Dudi, President of the Shri Sant Tukaram Maharaj Sansthan H.B.P. Jalindar More, Palkhi Procession Head H.B.P. Ganesh Maharaj More, H.B.P. Vaibhav Maharaj More, H.B.P. Dilip Maharaj More, Trustee H.B.P. Vikramsingh More, H.B.P. Umesh Maharaj More, H.B.P. Laxman Maharaj More, and several others.

After the prayers and rituals, Chief Minister Fadnavis paid his respects to the assembled Warkari devotees. He was felicitated by the temple trustees and had discussions with the temple’s board of trustees. After the Maha Pooja, the Palkhi proceeded toward its first halt at the Inamdar Wada.