Pune: Devotees have gathered at Shri Kshetra Alankapuri for the Ashadhi Pandharpur Wari. On Thursday (June 27) morning, a large crowd of Vaishnavites from both within and outside the state assembled for a holy bath along the banks of the Indrayani River.

These devotees, emerging from various mathas, dharamshalas, and makeshift tents, chanted the name of Hari. To ensure the river's cleanliness, water was released from the Wadivale and Andra dams.

In preparation for the Ashadhi Wari, the Palkhi procession of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj will depart from Alandi to Pandharpur on Saturday.

Pilgrims, devotees, and dindis have begun arriving in Alandi to join the procession. The Palkhi will depart from Deulwada on Saturday, and after the initial rituals and hospitality, it will proceed towards Pandharpur via Pune on June 30.

Recently, the Indrayani River in Alandi had become heavily polluted, with significant froth forming due to chemical contaminants. This situation had caused dissatisfaction among the Warkaris. In response, the administration took immediate action.

The Maharashtra Pollution Control Board, along with the municipal council, implemented various measures. The irrigation department was requested to release water into the Indrayani River, which helped wash away the froth, resulting in a cleaner river. The Warkaris have expressed their satisfaction with the cleaner river.

Kailas Kendre, Chief Officer of Alandi Municipal Council, stated that 100 cusecs of water was released into the Indrayani River from the Wadivale and Andra dams on June 19. This water reached Alandi by Tuesday. The flow of water has helped clear the froth from the river, making it clean and beautiful.