Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi In Pimpri-Chinchwad On 19th July

By Prashant for PuneriPages.in

Every July, something magical happens in Maharashtra. It’s not just a religious event or a cultural tradition. It’s a movement of the soul—a million footsteps echoing with the chants of “Gyanba Tukaram.” And this year, on July 19th, that magic is flowing right through our city, Pimpri-Chinchwad.

If you’ve never experienced the Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi in person, let me tell you—it’s something that stays with you. I’ve grown up watching this beautiful river of devotion pass through our streets, and every time, it feels new. This guide is my way of helping you experience it, whether you’re a devotee, a curious observer, or just someone trying to navigate the traffic.

What the Wari Truly Means (From My Heart to Yours)

Let’s start with the soul of it all.

The Wari isn’t just a procession—it’s an 800-year-old promise that faith will always find its way. Thousands of Warkaris, carrying nothing but faith and a few belongings, walk all the way from Dehu to Pandharpur. They sleep on the roads, eat from shared plates, and sing with a joy that makes your heart swell.

Sant Tukaram Maharaj, whose padukas (symbolic sandals) are carried in the Palkhi, was more than a saint—he was a poet, a philosopher, and a reformer who believed in the power of love and devotion.

When I see the Warkaris walking with their tanpuras, singing abhangs, smiling at strangers—that’s when I truly feel proud to be Maharashtrian.

Mark the Date: July 19th – The Palkhi Reaches Pimpri-Chinchwad

This year, on Friday, July 19, the Palkhi arrives in our very own PCMC limits. It’s scheduled to halt at Shri Vitthal Mandir, Akurdi, where thousands will gather to offer darshan and prayers.

The next day, Saturday, July 20, the Palkhi will move toward Nivdungya Vitthal Mandir in Nana Peth, Pune.

These aren’t just halts—they are moments where the city breathes in devotion and exhales unity. Trust me, even if you’re not religious, standing there for just five minutes will give you goosebumps.

How to Be a Part of It (Even If You’re Not Walking)

If You Want Darshan:

Go early or late: Peak hours get crowded, so try visiting in the early morning or late evening.
Be kind: Help elders, give way, and don’t rush.
Join the Seva: Many locals offer free water, food, and medical assistance to Warkaris. Even handing out a glass of buttermilk makes a difference.

If You Just Need to Get Somewhere:

Avoid the Palkhi route entirely. Akurdi, Chinchwad, and connecting roads to Pune will be jammed.
Use Google Maps, but keep checking official traffic police updates too.
Leave super early. Trust me, 30-minute journeys can become 2 hours.
If possible, work from home on July 19th.

I’ve been caught in the middle of the procession before. It’s beautiful—but if you’re running late for something important, it can be overwhelming.

Let’s Welcome This With Gratitude

I truly believe the Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi is not just a spiritual event—it’s a blessing that comes walking into our lives once a year. Yes, there’s traffic. Yes, it’s crowded. But there’s also something deeply peaceful about watching people walk with nothing but hope.

Let’s respect the faith, the tradition, and the Warkaris. Let’s also be kind to our fellow residents trying to go about their day. With a little patience and a lot of heart, this can be a beautiful experience for all of us.

Jai Hari Vitthal | Jai Gyanba Tukaram