The Pandharpur Wari, a 20-day spiritual walk to the Lord Vitthal temple in Pandharpur, Maharashtra, is a grand celebration that brings together lakhs of devotees from across the state. The event features a majestic procession of Palkhis (chariots) carrying the sacred Padukas of Sant Dnyaneshwar and Sant Tukaram, accompanied by traditional music, bhajans, and elaborate flower decorations.
A blooming spectacle
The flower decoration for the Pandharpur Wari is a stunning spectacle, with tons of loose flowers and thousands of fresh cut flower stems used to adorn the Palkhis. A wide variety of flowers are used, including marigold, tuberose, chrysanthemums, aster, spider lily, Dutch roses, carnations, gerbera, orchids, sunflowers, and anthuriums. The flowers and greens like dracena,song of India,muraya ect are carefully arranged and designed by skilled artisans, with new designs and themes introduced every day.
Community spirit
The Pandharpur Wari is a testament to the power of community and faith. Many artisans offer their services free of charge, while devotees sponsor the decorations, showcasing the spirit of giving and volunteerism. The event also generates significant economic activity, with neighboring farmers planning their flower production to meet the high demand during the Wari.
A grand finale
The Pandharpur Wari culminates on Ashadhi Ekadashi, with lakhs of devotees gathering in Pandharpur to pay homage to Lord Vitthal. The event is a celebration of faith, community, and the beauty of nature, with the flowers adding a vibrant and festive touch to the proceedings.
Highlights included the 20-day spiritual walk to the Lord Vitthal temple in Pandharpur, marked by a majestic procession of Palkhis carrying sacred Padukas. This event features elaborate flower decorations, utilizing tons of loose flowers and fresh cut flower stems, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere. The occasion highlights a strong sense of community spirit and volunteerism, demonstrated through free services and various sponsorships. Additionally, it generates significant economic activity, particularly through the production and sales of flowers.
For decorating palakhi (chariot) fresh flowers are used. Generally, it takes 15 workers 7 to 8 hours to complete the work at the Palakhis halt destination. Every day, the decoration is done freshly and differently for each occasion.
Tushar Flowers (House of Flowers), located in Chinchwad, Pune, has been doing this work for the past 18 years under the ownership of Machindra Adagale and his son Tushar Aadagale.
For more information:
India Florist Association
www.ifaflorist.com
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