Pune is once again abuzz with preparations for the annual Palkhi processions of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj, a spiritual journey that draws millions of devotees (Warkaris) from across Maharashtra and beyond. These revered processions, a cornerstone of the Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage to Pandharpur, are scheduled to pass through Pune from June 19 to June 23, 2025. This year, like every year, meticulous planning is underway by various civic and law enforcement agencies to ensure a smooth, safe, and spiritually enriching experience for all.
The Sacred Journey: A Glimpse into History and Significance
The Palkhi festival, an over 800-year-old tradition, is an annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur, the sacred abode of Lord Vitthal (an incarnation of Krishna). Warkaris, followers of the Varkari sect, undertake this arduous journey on foot, carrying the padukas (sandals) of the revered saints in beautifully adorned palanquins (Palkhis).
The tradition of the two main Palkhis – Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj’s from Alandi and Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s from Dehu – began in 1830 after initial disputes within the Tukaram family. Since then, these separate processions converge in Pune for a brief halt, then diverge at Hadapsar, only to reunite again at Wakhri, a village near Pandharpur, before reaching their final destination on Ashadhi Ekadashi (July 6, 2025). The Wari is not merely a pilgrimage; it’s a testament to faith, devotion, and a unique display of Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage, marked by devotional songs (abhangs), rhythmic chants of “Dnyanba-Tukaram,” and a profound sense of community.
Pune Palkhi 2025: Key Dates
- Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi:
- June 18: Departure from Dehu.
- June 19: Akurdi – Procession through Pimpri-Chinchwad.
- June 20: Pune (Nanapeth) – Arrival and overnight halt.
- June 21: Hadapsar – Community events.
- June 22: Loni Kalbhor – Devotional gatherings.
- June 23: Departs Pune Rural for Yavat and further.
- Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi:
- June 19: Alandi – Ritualistic send-off and overnight halt in Alandi.
- June 20: Pune (Bhavanipeth) – Arrival and overnight halt.
- June 21: Pune – Community events.
- June 22: Departs Pune Rural for Saswad and further.
Understanding the Routes and Traffic Updates
The passage of these two massive processions necessitates significant traffic management and diversions across Pune city and its rural areas. The Pune City Police and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) have released detailed advisories to ensure minimal disruption while prioritizing the safety of the Warkaris.
Major Road Closures and Diversions (Pune City – June 20, 2025):
On Friday, June 20, from 8 AM to midnight, approximately 26 key roads in Pune city will be closed to general traffic. Commuters are strongly advised to avoid core city areas and utilize alternative routes. Some of the major roads impacted include:
- Range Hill Chowk to Sancheti Chowk (Ganeshkhind Road)
- Khandojibaba Chowk to Veer Chapekar Chowk (Gokhale and Ferguson Road)
- Gadgil Putla Chowk to S. G. Barve Chowk (Chhatrapati Shivaji Road)
- Apte Road, Gokhale Road to Tilak Road
- Laxmi Road (Tilak Chowk to Sant Kabir Chowk)
- Shanipar Chowk to Seva Sadan Chowk