Maharashtra is set to witness one of its largest annual spiritual gatherings today as lakhs of devotees will celebrate Ashadhi Ekadashi, one of the most sacred festivals in the state's religious calendar. The holy town of Pandharpur is expected to become the centre of devotion as thousands of Warkaris will complete the centuries-old pilgrimage to seek the blessings of Lord Vitthal and Goddess Rukmini.

The annual Pandharpur Wari, a tradition that has continued for centuries, will culminate today with devotees arriving from across Maharashtra and neighbouring states. Pilgrims will walk hundreds of kilometres while chanting devotional hymns, singing abhangs, and accompanying the sacred Palkhis of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj from Alandi and Sant Tukaram Maharaj from Dehu. The pilgrimage is expected to once again showcase Maharashtra's rich spiritual heritage and the values of equality, devotion, and selfless service.

The Vitthal-Rukmini Temple in Pandharpur is expected to receive an enormous influx of devotees throughout the day. Special prayers, rituals, and the traditional government Mahapuja are scheduled to be performed in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and other dignitaries, who are expected to pray for the prosperity, peace, and well-being of the state and the nation.

Ashadhi Ekadashi, also known as Devshayani Ekadashi, marks the beginning of Chaturmas, the four-month sacred period during which, according to Hindu tradition, Lord Vishnu enters divine slumber. Devotees across the state are expected to observe fasting, participate in devotional singing, and visit temples dedicated to Lord Vitthal.

Authorities have made extensive security and crowd-management arrangements for the occasion. Police personnel, disaster response teams, healthcare workers, and volunteers will be deployed to ensure the safety and convenience of pilgrims. Temporary medical camps, drinking water facilities, sanitation services, and food distribution centres have also been established along major pilgrimage routes and in Pandharpur.

Temples across Maharashtra will organise special religious programmes, bhajans, kirtans, and cultural events to mark the festival. The chants of "Vitthal Vitthal Jai Hari Vitthal" are expected to resonate throughout villages, towns, and cities as devotees come together in celebration.

Ashadhi Ekadashi will once again serve as a symbol of faith, unity, discipline, and Maharashtra's enduring Warkari tradition, bringing together people from all walks of life in a shared expression of devotion and spirituality.