Maharashtra ensures inclusive Pandharpur Corridor development and abolishes VIP darshan
Maharashtra’s government’s commitment to an inclusive and transparent redevelopment of the Pandharpur Corridor, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured that no stakeholder—be it shopkeepers, residents, or religious devotees—will suffer losses due to the project. Emphasizing trust and rehabilitation, he welcomed the move to end the controversial VIP darshan system at the Vitthal temple. Drawing inspiration from the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, the government aims to transform Pandharpur while respecting its traditions, businesses, and people, ensuring spiritual integrity is preserved alongside infrastructural growth.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, accompanied by his wife Amruta and daughter Divija, visited the Vitthal-Rukmini Temple on the occasion of Ashadhi Ekadashi and addressed concerns regarding the ambitious Pandharpur Corridor project. The corridor seeks to revamp the area surrounding the temple—widening roads, relocating shops, and creating better facilities for the massive influx of pilgrims. However, resistance had emerged from locals worried about displacement and damage to the town’s historical and spiritual character. Fadnavis made it clear that the redevelopment will take place only after extensive consultations with the affected parties. Discussions between the district administration and shopkeepers, residents, and religious leaders are already underway. “The government will carry forward this project by winning people’s trust. Every homeowner, trader, and devotee will be respected and rehabilitated in a way that improves their situation,” he stated. He reiterated that no one will be forcefully displaced, nor will livelihoods be compromised for the sake of development.
He further clarified that the administration has been proactive in resolving doubts and building consensus. “The district collector has engaged directly with stakeholders, and we are committed to continuing this transparent approach. This is not just a development project; it’s a project that touches people’s faith, emotions, and livelihoods,” Fadnavis noted. With the corridor envisioned as Maharashtra’s answer to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath project, the political leadership is pushing for modernization while carefully managing local sensitivities. In a significant gesture that was widely appreciated, Fadnavis praised the Solapur district’s decision to eliminate VIP darshan privileges at the temple. This move has significantly reduced wait times—by up to five hours—for ordinary devotees, thereby making the spiritual experience more egalitarian. “The decision to end VIP darshan is an excellent tradition. It removes a barrier between the deity and the devotee. I believe this reform should be upheld in the long run,” said Fadnavis, aligning the temple’s administration more closely with the spirit of devotion and equality.
A newly implemented token-based darshan system is currently in place to manage crowd control more efficiently. While still in its early phase, Fadnavis expressed optimism that it will stabilize over time and make the pilgrimage experience more streamlined and dignified for all. “Yes, the token system is new and will need time, but we’re committed to making it work for everyone,” he added, reinforcing the idea of an inclusive spiritual experience. This year’s official Maha Puja was performed by a Warkari couple—Kailas Ugle and Kalpana Ugle—from Jategaon village in Nashik district. Selected for their devout participation in the annual pilgrimage, the couple was honored by the chief minister and his wife. In a thoughtful gesture, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) awarded them a free year-long bus pass, symbolizing the state’s respect for the grassroots spiritual community.
Fadnavis also lauded the success of the Nirmal Wari initiative, which ensured that this year’s pilgrimage was not only clean but also environmentally conscious. “This year’s Wari was both clean and green. The message of sanitation and sustainability from our saints is visible everywhere,” he noted, emphasizing that spiritual growth and social responsibility must go hand in hand with economic development. Touching on political tensions surrounding the pilgrimage, Fadnavis addressed the participation of individuals accused of being ‘Urban Naxals’ in the Wari. He stressed that while the Wari is open to all, its sanctity must be preserved. “Anyone can join the Wari. It’s a spiritual journey, not a platform for personal or ideological campaigns. The focus should remain on devotion to Lord Vitthal,” he warned, drawing a clear line between faith-based participation and political opportunism.
The Pandharpur Corridor thus stands at the intersection of development, devotion, and dialogue. As Maharashtra moves forward with this project, the state leadership is making a conscious effort to preserve the town’s cultural and spiritual identity. Fadnavis’s statements indicate a broader attempt to avoid the mistakes of past urban redevelopment plans that prioritized construction over community. By eliminating VIP privileges and involving local voices, the administration seems intent on building a modern pilgrimage infrastructure that retains its soul.
While skepticism remains in some corners, the chief minister’s emphasis on transparency, trust-building, and spiritual integrity sends a strong signal about the government’s priorities. As the corridor takes shape in the months ahead, it will serve as a litmus test for inclusive governance in religious redevelopment—balancing ancient faith with contemporary needs, and infrastructure with individual dignity.
