Warkari Community Gains Maharashtra Government Backing: Pensions And New Corporation Announced

In a strategic move ahead of the Maharashtra assembly elections, the state government has announced pensions for senior citizens participating in the traditional month-long 'waris' to Pandharpur. This annual pilgrimage is dedicated to Lord Vithal in Solapur. The budget also includes the establishment of the Mukhya Mantri Varkari Sampradaya Mahamandal to support 'Kirtankars,' 'Warkaris,' and 'Bhajani Mandals,' as well as manage 'Palkhi' routes.

The government has allocated Rs 50 crore as start-up capital for the new 'Warkari' corporation, which will be headquartered in Pandharpur. However, specific details regarding the pension amount are yet to be finalised by the corporation. But Rs 20,000 per 'Dindi' (group of devotees) will be provided from this year onwards.

Every year, lakhs of 'Warkaris' embark on a 21-day foot journey to Pandharpur. The pilgrimage attracts people from various communities and castes. "The Warkari movement has its roots in the Bhakti tradition," said a political observer. "It can be traced back to the 17th-century saint Sant Tukaram Maharaj from Dehu."

Warkari Community's Influence

The Warkari community holds significant influence in rural areas. Political observers note that senior Congress leaders have encouraged Rahul Gandhi to join the pilgrimage. Sharad Pawar may also participate. The MahaYuti alliance aims not to alienate this community, especially with the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) seeking their support.

Government Initiatives

The government has decided to allocate Rs 36.71 crore for 'Nirmal Vari,' a drive aimed at providing portable toilets along the pilgrimage routes. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance facilities for pilgrims and ensure a smoother journey.

"Devotees from all over Maharashtra flock together to bow before Shri Vitthala, the deity of Maharashtra," said DCM Ajit Pawar during his budget speech. "Palkhi of Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj is departing from Dehu today. Palkhi of Dnyaneshwar Mauli will leave from Alandi on Saturday."

The state government recognises the deep cultural significance of this tradition and is sending a proposal to UNESCO for the World Heritage nomination of Pandharpur Wari. This pilgrimage is seen as an integral part of Maharashtra's identity.

"This government is aware that the umbilical cord of Maharashtra is connected with this Wari of Varkari Bhaktimarga," added Ajit Pawar. "We are sending a proposal to UNESCO for the World Heritage nomination of Pandharpur Wari."

The announcement comes at a crucial time with Maharashtra assembly polls likely in October. The opposition MVA plans to woo the 'Warkari' community with prominent leaders like Sharad Pawar and Rahul Gandhi expected to join the 'Wari.'

The pension scheme and other initiatives reflect an effort by the state government to acknowledge and support this long-standing tradition while garnering electoral support from a key demographic group.