Pune: Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) faction President Sharad Pawar will, for the first time, be stopping at Katewadi to welcome the Palkhi (palanquin) of Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj.

A few days ago, social reformer and kirtankar Shamsundar Maharaj Sonnar and his associates met with Sharad Pawar and invited him to participate in the Wari (pilgrimage) for at least one day as part of their initiative.

Last year, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar welcomed the Palkhi procession at the gates of Baramati and steered the chariot. This year, Sharad Pawar has announced his participation in welcoming the Wari. This will make this year’s Palkhi stop particularly unique and significant.

After completing its stay in Baramati, Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi heads towards Pandharpur and stops for rest in Katewadi. This village is significant both locally and nationally, known for its environmental balance and unity.

The Palkhi is traditionally welcomed by laying dhoti carpets in front of it as it makes its way into the village along the Indapur-Baramati road. This honor has been held by the Nanaware family for many years.

The tradition is deeply rooted in Katewadi, symbolizing the unity and spiritual fervor of the Wari. The process of making these dhoti carpets begins well before the Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage, continuing year after year.