Devendra Fadnavis Joins Ashadhi Wari Celebrations in Pune, Pays Tribute to Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar

Pune, Maharashtra: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday participated in the revered Ashadhi Wari celebrations in Pune, paying homage to the sacred Padukas of Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj and Sant Dnyaneshwar Mauli while highlighting the enduring spiritual and social significance of the centuries-old tradition.

The Chief Minister visited the Nivdunga Vitthoba Mandir to take darshan of the holy Padukas of Sant Tukaram Maharaj and later offered prayers before the sacred Padukas of Sant Dnyaneshwar Mauli at the Vitthal-Rukmini Temple in Bhavani Peth.

Sharing his experience, Fadnavis described the visit as deeply moving and spiritually enriching. He said that standing before the revered Padukas filled him with an overwhelming sense of devotion that words could scarcely express.

The Chief Minister also interacted with Warkaris participating in the annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur. He acknowledged the immense faith and dedication of the devotees, many of whom walk hundreds of kilometres chanting the names of Lord Vitthal and spreading the message of devotion, equality and humility.

Fadnavis noted that witnessing the care and support extended to Warkaris after their long journey was among the most humbling experiences of his life. He said that serving the pilgrims, who carry Lord Hari in their hearts and see divinity in every individual, is itself an act of devotion to Lord Vitthal.

Emphasising the cultural and spiritual importance of the Ashadhi Wari, the Chief Minister said the tradition continues to inspire generations through its message of faith, social harmony and selfless service. He praised the Warkari movement for preserving Maharashtra’s rich spiritual heritage and strengthening the values of unity and compassion.

The atmosphere across Pune resonated with devotional chants of “Gyanba-Tukaram” and “Mauli, Mauli,” accompanied by the rhythmic beats of taal and mridang as thousands of devotees gathered to celebrate the sacred pilgrimage.

Union Minister of State Murlidhar Mohol, MLA Sunil Kamble, MLA Hemant Rasane and several other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

“Jai Hari Vitthal,” the Chief Minister concluded, reaffirming the spirit of devotion that defines the Ashadhi Wari and the Warkari tradition