Over 700 warkaris embark on 1,275km spiritual journey
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Shegaon (Buldhana): With chants of "Gan Gan Ganat Bote" and "Gajanan maharaj ki jai" echoing through the streets of Shegaon, the 56th annual palki (palanquin) procession of Shri Sant Gajanan Maharaj comprising over 700 warkaris (devotees), bhajan troupes, horses, and symbolic elements of warkari tradition began its journey towards Pandharpur on Sunday morning.
The annual spiritual event, organized by Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan, marks a devotional foot pilgrimage that spans 1,275km over two months — 725km to Pandharpur and 550km on return journey to Shegaon.
The tradition, which began in 1968, has continued uninterrupted for 56 years, irrespective of weather, hardships, or circumstances. The warkaris, dressed in white with saffron flags and tulsi malas (holy beads), set out chanting praises of Lord Vitthal and Shri Gajanan Maharaj.
The procession spreads messages of devotion, discipline, purity, and social harmony.
As the palanquin left Shegaon's temple premises, thousands of local devotees walked along to the village border to bid a heartfelt farewell to Shri's palki, with many offering flowers, sweets, and folded hands.
The palanquin's first halt after its departure on June 2 is scheduled at Paras village in Akola district, after a brief rest at Sant Gomaji Maharaj Sansthan, Nagzhari, where devotees were served mahaprasad (sacred meal).
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Before the departure, refreshments were also provided to the warkaris near Shri Maharaj's Pragat Sthal by local devotees at Deshmukh Mala.
The entire route has been carefully planned with arrangements for tea, snacks, rest, and security at various halts across districts. The return journey will commence on July 10, with the palki scheduled to reach Shegaon on July 31.
As the palki passes through small villages and rural settlements, it carries not just the aura of Sant Gajanan Maharaj but also a message of social reform.
The pilgrimage addresses spiritual needs of people affected by poverty, addiction, blind faith, and ignorance, reminding them of the values of wisdom, detachment, and divine devotion.
This walking yatra, filled with bhajans, spiritual discourse, and community meals, reinforces faith in Dharma (righteousness) and rejuvenates the Sant Parampara (saint tradition) of Maharashtra.
Among the many palkis that reach Pandharpur during the Ashadhi Ekadashi celebrations, the palki of Shri Gajanan Maharaj from Shegaon is widely respected for its discipline, cleanliness, and spiritual focus. Every year, it is welcomed with great reverence and devotion in the holy town.
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