Pune: Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and Rajya Sabha MP Sunetra Pawar participated in the Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi procession on Sunday (July 7) morning, walking alongside the devotees.

Ajit Pawar, who flew in from Mumbai to Baramati, joined the procession directly from the airport at Motibaug and commenced walking towards Katewadi.

Sunetra Pawar accompanied him in the procession. During the walk, numerous pilgrims, Veenakari, and leaders of the Palkhi procession engaged in conversations with Ajit Pawar.

Pilgrims from across the state took the opportunity to take photos with him. Ajit Pawar, donning a cap, played the cymbals and joined the pilgrims in their hymns for a while.

Given the presence of the Deputy Chief Minister, stringent police security measures were in place today. Many Baramati residents also walked from Baramati to Sansar early in the morning.

After the morning prayers, the Palkhi procession proceeded towards Katewadi, with devotees bidding a heartfelt farewell. Additionally, Baramati Municipal Council Chief Officer Mahesh Rokde performed the morning pooja with his wife.

Ajit Pawar had announced his participation in the Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palakhi procession while speaking at the Legislative Assembly session. The procession, which annually passes through Baramati, will head to Sansar for an overnight stay.

Last year, Ajit Pawar attended the procession's welcome ceremony in Baramati. This year, he is personally joining the procession from Baramati to Katewadi.

The Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palakhi stayed overnight in Baramati on Saturday (July 6) Early Sunday morning, the procession departed from Baramati, passing through Pimpali en route to Katewadi.

Every year, the procession receives a grand welcome in Katewadi with a ceremonial path lined with traditional dhotis. After a midday rest, the Palakhi continues to Sansar for another overnight stay.