Final preparations done for Palkhi; tight vehicle curbs in place

Indian Express

6 days ago

As the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi procession prepares to set off from Alandi on June 19, authorities and organisers have undertaken a massive logistical operation to ensure the smooth movement of the Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage.
With around 430 dindis joining the procession, each group will be accompanied by food and luggage trucks and two supporting vehicles, forming a well-coordinated caravan that will head toward Pandharpur, the revered abode of Lord Vitthal.
Traffic arrangements have been tightened to avoid bottlenecks and reduce pressure on the local administration. Speaking about the preparations, Yogi Niranjan Nath Guru Shantinath, chief trustee of the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Sansthan, said, 'We have completed the chariot preparation, conducted the necessary traffic inspections,and issued the RTO certification. Private vehicles will not be allowed as they pose a major burden on local traffic management during the pilgrimage. However, we have issued vehicle passes to essential service providers and residents.'
Each dindi will have two trucks allocated for carrying devotees' belongings, along with additional vehicles to assist with logistics and coordination. 'This system allows the palkhi to move seamlessly while minimising delays and ensuring the safety and convenience of the pilgrims,' the chief trustee added.
The official journey of the palkhi will begin after the evening aarti on June 19, with the procession expected to leave Alandi at 6am on June 20. The palkhi yatra will span nearly 21 days, culminating in Pandharpur on Ashadhi Ekadashi, where lakhs of Warkaris will converge to offer prayers and get a glimpse of Lord Vitthal.
Despite the vastness of the event, the procession has historically been managed with remarkable efficiency, largely due to the discipline and collective spirit of the Warkari community. 'There is always a sense of relief in knowing that the Warkaris themselves maintain order. Their faith, patience, and self-regulation are at the heart of this tradition,' said Yogi Niranjan Nath.
As preparations near completion, Alandi is witnessing a surge in spiritual energy. With chants of 'Gyanba-Tukaram' echoing through the town, the sacred journey is once again set to reaffirm Maharashtra's deep-rooted tradition of devotion, community, and faith in motion.