Every year, Maharashtra is filled with singing, chanting, and the footsteps of lakhs of devotees during the Pandharpur Wari, a vibrant pilgrimage honouring Lord Vitthal.
In 2025, two grand Palkhi processions will take place, one for Sant Tukaram Maharaj from Dehu and another for Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj from Alandi, covering over 250 kilometers on foot to reach Pandharpur. This journey of spiritual songs and community meals will culminate on Ashadhi Ekadashi, July 6, 2025, at the temple of Lord Vitthal.
WHAT IS PANDHARPUR WARI?
Pandharpur Wari is a centuries-old pilgrimage in Maharashtra where devotees, known as Warkaris, walk together to the temple of Lord Vitthal in Pandharpur. The journey is led by two main Palkhi (palanquin) processions:
- Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi from Dehu
- Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi from Alandi
During the Wari, devotees sing abhangas (devotional songs), participate in spiritual discourses, and share simple meals, creating a vibrant atmosphere of devotion, equality, and togetherness.
2025 DAY-WISE ROUTE AND SCHEDULE
Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi (Dehu to Pandharpur)
- Departure: June 18, 2025 (Wednesday) from Dehu
- Major Halts: Inamdar Wada, Pune (Nanapeth), Loni Kalbhor, Katewadi, Akluj, Wakhari
- Arrival in Pandharpur: July 5, 2025 (Saturday)
- Ashadhi Ekadashi Darshan: July 6, 2025 (Sunday)
Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi (Alandi to Pandharpur)
- Departure: June 19, 2025 (Thursday) from Alandi
- Major Halts: Pune, Saswad, Jejuri, Taradgaon, Sadashivnagar, Khudus, Thakur Buva Samadhi, Wakhari
- Arrival in Pandharpur: July 5, 2025 (Saturday)
- Ashadhi Ekadashi Darshan: July 6, 2025 (Sunday)
KEY RITUALS AND EVENTS ALONG THE WAY:
- Singing of abhangas and kirtans
- Community meals and charity
- Special rituals like “Ringan” (symbolic race) and “Niravsamadhi” (memorial ceremonies).
SIGNIFICANCE
- Unity and Equality: The Wari brings together people from all walks of life, breaking barriers of caste and status.
- Devotion: The journey honours the teachings of Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar, who spread messages of love, humility, and devotion to Lord Vitthal.
- Tradition: The pilgrimage has been observed for centuries, making it a living tradition and a symbol of Maharashtra’s spiritual heritage.
Pandharpur Wari is not just a walk; it is a journey of faith, unity, and devotion that connects millions of hearts every year. In 2025, as the Palkhis make their way from Dehu and Alandi to Pandharpur, the spirit of the Wari will once again light up Maharashtra, reminding everyone of the power of collective devotion and tradition.