Today marks the commencement of the revered Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi ceremony from Dehu, a significant event drawing thousands of devotees from across Maharashtra. Scheduled to start from the main Deulwada in Dehu at 2:30 PM, this procession for Ashadhi Wari will see the palanquin of Shri Sant Tukaram Maharaj making its way to Pandharpur, a journey deeply rooted in spiritual tradition and devotion.
Key Highlights of the Event
The Palkhi ceremony holds profound cultural and religious importance, with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde among the dignitaries attending. Pilgrims and devotees have been arriving from various parts of the state, converging at Dehu to witness and participate in this sacred journey.
Traffic and Route Information
For those planning to navigate through the area, detailed information regarding road closures, diversions, and parking can be accessed via a dedicated Google Map link provided by the Pimpri Chinchwad police. This includes:
- Red Line: Closed roads
- Blue Line: Palkhi route
- Green Line: Diverted traffic routes
To view the map details, click here.
Community Preparation and Support
The atmosphere in Dehu is vibrant and bustling, with villagers of Dehu Gaon eagerly preparing to welcome devotees along the Indrayani River banks. Local organizations and residents have organized food donations and elaborate welcoming services along the Palkhi route, exemplifying community spirit and hospitality.
Organizational Efforts
Efforts coordinated by the Shri Sant Tukaram Maharaj Sansthan Dehu, Dehu Nagar Panchayat, and Dehu Road Police are ensuring the smooth execution of the Palkhi Ceremony. The ceremonial preparations, including the polishing of the Silver Palkhi Ratha from Kolhapur and the arrival of Dindis, signify meticulous planning and reverence for the 339th Palkhi ceremony.
Traffic Management and Schedule
To accommodate the influx of visitors, traffic restrictions will be enforced in Dehu on June 28 and June 29. On Saturday (June 29), traffic between Nigdi and Dehu Road on the old Pune-Mumbai highway will be diverted via the Katraj-Dehu Road bypass highway.
Detailed Schedule of Events
The day’s schedule includes various rituals and ceremonies starting early in the morning and culminating in the commencement of the Palkhi ceremony at 2:30 PM at Bhajani Mandap, Shri Sant Tukaram Maharaj Mandir.
- 4:30 AM: Morning Aarti at Shri Sant Tukaram Maharaj Mandir
- 5:00 AM: Maha Pooja at Shree Vitthal Rakhumai Temple and Shila Mandir Sant Tukaram Maharaj
- 5:30 AM: Maha Pooja at Narayan Maharaj Samadhi Temple by trustees
- 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM: Sant Tukaram Maharaj Paduka Poojan at Inamdar Wada
- 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Keertan by Dehukar Maharaj
- 2:30 PM: Arrival of Tukaram Maharaj’s Padukas at Bhajani Mandap, Shri Sant Tukaram Maharaj Mandir
- 2:30 PM: Commencement of the Palkhi Ceremony with distinguished guests in attendance
The dedicated efforts and enthusiastic participation from all stakeholders ensure that the Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi ceremony remains a cherished tradition, fostering spiritual harmony and cultural vibrancy in Maharashtra.
