The Pandharpur Wari is a living tradition over 800 years old, dating back to the 14th century. Initiated by the saints Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram, the Wari began as a small spiritual journey and transformed into one of the world’s most iconic religious movements.
Pandharpur Wari is often considered as the longest continuous foot procession globally. Covering 250+ kilometers from Alandi or Dehu to Pandharpur over 21 days, devotees known as Varkaris walk every step.
Nature and faith walk hand in hand in the Wari tradition. One of the most visually striking and symbolic elements of the Wari is the Tulsi Vrindavan. Considered sacred to Lord Vishnu, wearing it represents spiritual surrender, inner purity, and protection from evil.
At the core of the Pandharpur Wari is absolute equality. Everyone, regardless of caste, gender, age, or background, walk, eat, and rest together. This radical inclusivity was championed by Bhakti saints like Tukaram and Dnyaneshwar, who believed that devotion transcends all human-made boundaries.
Most Varkaris walk the entire distance barefoot. It's a voluntary humility that symbolises surrender of ego and luxury. The idea is to feel every grain of dust on the path to the Lord, to experience pain and discomfort as a form of spiritual purification.
The Wari is not only a physical pilgrimage, but also a musical one. Varkaris walk while singing Abhangas composed by saints like Tukaram and Namdev. These songs are a form of meditation and collective worship.
Wari also plays a huge role in preserving Maharashtra’s folk traditions. Dindis often include Lezim dancers, dhol-tasha groups, Kirtankars, and traditional Palkhi craftspeople. Some Varkaris even wear clothes that mirror Maratha-era tradition.
Each Palkhi that carries the padukas of saints Tukaram or Dnyaneshwar is revered as a living deity. People bow, offer flowers, and even shed tears in its presence. The discipline, rituals, and reverence shown toward these Palkhis rival any grand temple procession in India.
The Wari happens during peak monsoon. Walking through muddy roads, swollen rivers, and pouring rain is seen as part of the spiritual purification. Umbrellas are rare, it’s about soaking in Bhakti and Bhagirathi.
Along the Wari route, many villages completely halt business to host, feed, and care for the pilgrims. It’s considered the highest act of punya. From farmers to shopkeepers, everyone becomes a host for a day, offering free meals, shelter, and more.