The spiritually significant annual pilgrimage of Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s palanquin (Palkhi) to Pandharpur commences today, with the ceremonial departure scheduled for 2:30 PM from the main temple in Dehu. As the Ashadhi Ekadashi approaches, lakhs of devotees have already arrived in Dehunagari to witness the grand send-off and participate in the revered Wari tradition.
This year marks the 340th Palkhi ceremony, a tradition deeply embedded in Maharashtra’s spiritual and cultural fabric. The palanquin procession will begin from the Bhajani Mandap in the main temple complex and will reach Pandharpur—fondly known as Pandhari—on July 6, after a 19-day spiritual march on foot.
Dehu has been beautifully decorated for the occasion, with thousands of Warkaris (devotees clad in traditional attire) converging from across Maharashtra. The town is fully prepared to host the pilgrims, with arrangements made to ensure a seamless and spiritually uplifting experience.
Adding to the fervor, the Palkhi of Sant Dnyaneshwar Mauli from Alandi is also scheduled to depart on June 19, signaling the synchronized beginning of both revered processions towards Pandharpur.
Prominent political leaders are expected to grace the event. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister and Pune Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar, and Union Minister of State Muralidhar Mohol are reported to be attending the departure ceremony.
In view of the large gatherings, the Pimpri-Chinchwad Police Commissionerate has enforced significant traffic restrictions. From 12:00 midnight to 11:00 PM tomorrow, the movement of all vehicles—except those engaged in essential services—has been banned in specific areas to facilitate the procession.
Notably, 42 CCTV cameras have been installed at key locations for crowd monitoring and security. Entry of vehicles has been restricted on the old Mumbai-Pune highway up to Dehugaon Kamani, with exceptions granted to essential services, ST buses, Dindi vehicles, and light vehicles of local residents.