CM Fadnavis Criticises Sharad Pawar's Remarks on Varkari Sampradaya

Devendra Fadnavis hit back hard at NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar over his recent remarks on the Varkari sampradaya. It is a major political row. And it happens right as lakhs of devotees walk in the annual Pandharpur Wari.

Sharad Pawar said the Warkari sect has regressive elements. People were angry. Political leaders and devotees of Lord Vitthal pushed back immediately. Fadnavis quickly defended the tradition. He believes it is deeply inclusive.

Fadnavis Defends the Varkari Tradition

Speaking to reporters, Fadnavis noted that Sharad Pawar often calls himself "Nidharmi" (secular). Pawar is totally wrong about the Varkari sampradaya, he argued. This is a tradition of equality. It is deeply rooted in devotion and social harmony.

Saints like Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj guide this path. They historically broke down caste barriers. They brought people together in devotion to माऊली. Every year, millions of वारकरी walk hundreds of kilometres to Pandharpur. They travel together without any discrimination.

Political Reactions Amidst the Wari

The Palkhis of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj are heading to Pandharpur for Ashadhi Ekadashi. Politicians are watching this controversy closely. The Wari has deep cultural and spiritual meaning across Maharashtra.

But in the Dindis, devotees ignore the political noise. They just keep walking. Their single focus is the darshan of Vitthal and Rukmini. The journey continues with a constant विठ्ठलनामाचा गजर in the air.