Pandharpur, Navthnath Khilare
On the auspicious occasion of Ashadhi Ekadashi, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis offered prayers at the Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Temple in Pandharpur, seeking divine blessings for the state. He prayed to Lord Vitthal to give strength to overcome crises, wisdom to walk the righteous path, and blessings for the prosperity and contentment of the farmers.
CM Fadnavis, accompanied by his wife Amruta Fadnavis, performed the official Mahapuja along with the honored devotees Kailas Damu Ugle and Kalpana Ugle from Jategaon, Nashik. The puja was followed by a felicitation program organized by the Shri Vitthal Rukmini Temple Committee.
In his address, CM Fadnavis noted the growing scale of the annual pilgrimage (Wari), stating that this year’s Wari has set a new record with an overwhelming number of pilgrims arriving on foot. He highlighted the significant presence of youth among the devotees and appreciated the state administration for providing improved facilities under the leadership of Guardian Minister Jaykumar Gore. He particularly mentioned the installation of well-equipped German hangars for the comfort of the pilgrims.
Calling the experience of performing puja on Ashadhi Ekadashi a moment of joy for everyone, Fadnavis said, "Each person sees Lord Vitthal in others during the Wari – a unique tradition not found anywhere else in the world." He added that the chanting of Lord’s names during the procession energizes the soul and upholds the legacy of the Bhakti movement.
The Chief Minister also praised the ‘Nirmal Wari’ initiative, which ensured cleanliness throughout the procession route. He emphasized that the message of cleanliness preached by saints is being implemented effectively. He remarked that alongside material progress, spiritual development is essential for the growth of the state.
In a notable decision, the district administration discontinued VIP access to the temple during this period, thereby reducing the waiting time for regular devotees by five hours—a move applauded by the CM.
Earlier in the ceremony, Gahininath Maharaj Aosekar, co-chairman of the Temple Committee, lauded the state and district administrations for significantly improving facilities for devotees. He noted an increase in the number of pilgrims, managed efficiently by the authorities.
Following the Mahapuja, the honored devotees Kailas and Kalpana Ugle were felicitated by the Chief Minister and granted a year-long free ST bus pass by the State Transport Corporation.
‘Shri Vitthal Nirmal Dindi’ Awards Distributed
CM Fadnavis also distributed the ‘Shri Vitthal Nirmal Dindi’ awards to processions that promoted cleanliness and social awareness. The awardees were:
First Prize: Shri Sant Rohidas Dindi No. 13 – Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palakhi
Second Prize: Shri Balkrishnabua Warkari Dindi No. 19 – Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palakhi
Third Prize: Shri Guru Balasaheb Azrekar Dindi No. 23 – Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palakhi
The event saw the presence of several dignitaries including Guardian Minister Jaykumar Gore, Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan, MLAs and senior officials, all contributing to the successful celebration of the spiritual occasion.
