Ashadhi Ekadashi 2025: Toll Waiver Announced for Warkari Pilgrims Once Again

In a gesture of continued support for the Warkari community, the Maharashtra state government has once again announced a toll waiver for pilgrims traveling to Pandharpur for the annual Ashadhi Ekadashi Wari. The exemption will be applicable to vehicles accompanying the 10-man palanquins (dindis) en route to the sacred town.

According to the official government resolution, both light and heavy vehicles transporting Warkaris, palanquins, and devotees will be exempted from paying tolls along the designated pilgrimage routes. This measure, aimed at easing the spiritual journey of thousands of devotees, will be in effect from June 18 to July 10, 2025.

Every year, thousands of Warkaris walk hundreds of kilometers to Pandharpur to seek the divine darshan of Lord Vitthal. Chanting devotional hymns and carrying symbolic dindis, the pilgrims embody centuries-old tradition and devotion.

To streamline implementation of the toll exemption, the transport department, in coordination with the police and RTO, will issue special vehicle stickers. These stickers will be distributed based on a registration process involving the driver’s name and vehicle number. This administrative step is expected to ensure smooth passage through toll plazas without disruption.

Officials note that this decision is likely to bring significant relief to the Warkari pilgrims, many of whom come from rural regions and undertake the journey with minimal financial means. By waiving toll fees, the government aims to honor and uphold the spiritual significance of the Ashadhi Wari while supporting the devotees’ longstanding religious practice.