Maharashtra Gears Up for Safer and Greener Ashadhi Wari 2025
The Maharashtra government has finalised detailed preparations ahead of the annual pilgrimage to Pandharpur.
At a high-level review meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai on Thursday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde directed departments to scale up coordination and services in anticipation of early monsoon conditions. Describing Ashadhi Wari as a cornerstone of the state’s cultural identity, Shinde underlined the need for robust infrastructure along the Palkhi routes. Key priorities include deployment of mobile toilets, provision of safe drinking water, and medical assistance. Specific attention will be given to cardiac ambulances, waterproof mandaps, and a streamlined darshan pass system. With over 15 to 20 lakh Warkaris expected this year, the government has reinforced the Vitthal Rukmini Warkari Bima Chhatra Yojana and expanded darshan pass access for the ten Manachya Palkhis. A special model Warkari base and redevelopment of Sant Namdev Maharaj Ota at Wakhari are also part of the plans.
Police have been instructed to ensure no Palkhi proceeds without an official escort, with emphasis on accident prevention, traffic management, and crowd control. Municipal bodies in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad have been told to build mandaps and ensure smooth passage of Palkhis through urban zones. Senior officials presented logistics plans, while temple trustees and Dindi representatives voiced concerns around hygiene, route safety, and spiritual facilities. Divisional commissioners will be on call to assist Palkhis entering from other districts. Environmental sustainability remains central to this year’s planning. In line with the ‘Nirmal Wari’ and ‘Harit Wari’ themes, the state will promote green practices such as native tree plantations for shade, systematic waste collection, and the setup of 36 waterproof mandaps for shelter. Inspired by facilities at the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, the state will also introduce Hirakani Kaksh—dedicated rest and bathing spaces for women.
Ministers Jaykumar Gore, Prakash Abitkar, and Madhuri Misal, along with temple trust officials and Dindi leaders, were present at the meeting. The government’s push reflects growing awareness of managing large-scale religious gatherings with modern planning and ecological foresight.
