Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi Begins Journey to Pandharpur

The sacred 341st Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi began its annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur from Dehu on Tuesday afternoon, as thousands of devotees filled the temple town with the chants of “Gyanoba-Tukoba”. The spiritually charged departure ceremony transformed Dehu into a sea of devotion, marking the beginning of the revered Ashadhi Wari.

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The day’s religious rituals commenced at 5:00 AM with Mahapuja at the Shila Temple and the Samadhi Temple of Taponidhi Narayan Maharaj. Later, the sacred Padukas of Sant Tukaram Maharaj were worshipped at the historic Inamdar Wada before the traditional Kalya Kirtan was held between 10:00 AM and 12:00 PM.

At around 2:30 PM, the Padukas were ceremonially taken from Inamdar Wada to the Bhajani Mandap inside the temple complex. The official departure ceremony followed with Vedic chants, where the silver Padukas were ritually bathed and worshipped on a silver throne and silver platter.

Several dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, MP Shrirang Barne, former MP Chhatrapati Sambhajiraje, MLA Sunil Shelke, and MLA Mahesh Landge, offered prayers and performed the Paduka Poojan.

The Palkhi officially began its journey towards Pandharpur at 4:02 PM. As per tradition, it will complete the ceremonial procession within Dehu before halting for its first overnight stay at Inamdar Wada. On Wednesday morning, the Palkhi will proceed towards Pimpri-Chinchwad.

Heavy Rain Failed to Dampen Devotion

The pilgrimage began against the backdrop of heavy rainfall across Pune district, Maval, Dehu, and Alandi, which caused the Indrayani River to overflow, submerging several important bridges.

Earlier, the district administration and temple authorities had appealed to Warkaris to avoid gathering in Dehu and Alandi due to flood-like conditions and instead join the procession from Pune, Pimpri-Chinchwad, or further along the route.

However, as rainfall subsided on Tuesday morning, thousands of devotees reached Dehu to witness the historic departure ceremony, ensuring the centuries-old tradition continued with unmatched enthusiasm and unwavering faith.

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