Pune: Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) President Sharad Pawar and Indian National Congress (INC) leader Rahul Gandhi are set to participate in the annual pilgrimage of Sant Tukaram Maharaj's Ashadhi Wari on July 7.

This participation underscores their political strategy leading up to the upcoming state assembly elections.

Rahul Gandhi, through initiatives like the 'Bharat Jodo Yatra' and 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra,' has been touring extensively across the country. He has also engaged with various gatherings in Maharashtra prior to the Lok Sabha elections. Now, it is confirmed that Rahul Gandhi will participate in the Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage.

According to Congress sources, there is a possibility of his attendance during this auspicious event. With Congress securing 13 seats in Maharashtra during the Lok Sabha elections, their strategy for the upcoming assembly elections has already commenced.

If Rahul Gandhi participates in the Ashadhi Wari, it could potentially benefit the Congress in the state elections.

Meanwhile, thousands of devotees from Maharashtra and across the country annually participate in the pilgrimage to Pandharpur. Over twelve lakh devotees typically gather during the Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage.

For nearly a month, villagers from Maharashtra prepare by placing Tulsi leaves on their doorsteps and making their way to seek blessings from Lord Vitthal.

This pilgrimage holds immense significance for Maharashtra and now includes Rahul Gandhi's anticipated participation. He is expected to visit Pandharpur for darshan of Lord Vitthal on either July 13 or 14.