According to one theory, Vitthalpant, the father of the Varkari saint Dnyaneshwar, began the wari to visit Pandharpur in the Hindu months of Ashadha and Kartik. The tradition of performing a Wari is generally regarded to have existed for more than 800 years

An estimated one million pilgrims, either varkaris traveling with the palkhi or independent travelers, travel to Pandharpur each year, who require accommodation provided by the mathas and temporary lodging houses.

The Dnyaneshwar palkhi is managed by Haibatraobua Arphalkar’s descendants, the hereditary Chopdars, and the Alandi Devasthan Trust.

The wari’s schedule is published ahead of time and is strictly followed. It is detailed and minute details are made available, including starting location and the location of breaks, including lunch, rest and night stays. Every morning at early dawn, after worshiping the Saint’s footwear, the palkhi leaves at 6am for the next stretch of the route. A tutari (wind instrument) is blown thrice to alert all Warkaris.

महाराष्ट्रातील धार्मिक व सांस्कृतिक परंपरा जपणारी, जण माणसाला जोडणारी ही वारी आषाढ आणि कार्तिक महिन्यातील शुद्ध एकादशी अशा दोन्ही वेळा होते. हा सोहळा म्हणजे फक्त हरिनामाचा गजर आणि पांडुरंगाची निस्सीम भक्ती…

This Year Shri Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi Prasthan Sohala at Alandi is on June 29th, 2024 (Saturday).

Please register online to participate with iT Dindi.