The Palkhi Festival is a unique and sacred tradition of Maharashtra that has been celebrated for over a thousand years. Deeply rooted in the Warkari movement, this grand pilgrimage brings together lakhs of devotees, known as Varkaris, who walk hundreds of kilometers singing bhajans, chanting Dnyanoba-Tukaram, and spreading messages of love, unity, and spirituality.
Every year, two Palkhis—one dedicated to Sant Dnyaneshwar from Alandi and the other to Sant Tukaram from Dehu—embark on a 250 km journey to the holy town of Pandharpur. The festival is observed in Ashadh (June–July) and concludes on Ekadashi, the 11th day of the Hindu lunar month. As devotees traverse through villages, their processions, known as Dindis, create an electrifying atmosphere filled with music, dance, and unwavering devotion to Vitthal (an incarnation of Lord Krishna).
The origins of the Palkhi tradition date back to 1685, when Narayan Baba, the youngest son of Sant Tukaram, introduced the Palkhi procession as a symbol of social respect. For many years, the Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram Palkhis traveled together, but in 1830, due to internal family disputes, they were separated into two distinct processions. However, both Palkhis still meet in Pune for a brief halt, then continue their journey separately, only to reunite once again at Wakhri, near Pandharpur.
Today, the Palkhi tradition continues to grow, with over 4 lakh devotees joining the Sant Dnyaneshwar Palkhi and around 2 lakh devotees walking with the Sant Tukaram Palkhi. In total, 43 different Palkhis reach Pandharpur every year, each carrying the symbolic Padukas (sacred sandals) of revered saints. This incredible display of faith, endurance, and unity transcends religion and time, bringing together people from all walks of life to experience a journey of spiritual awakening.
