Pune: In a significant event commemorating the 700th birth anniversary of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj, the Vishwashanti Jagatguru Seva Sanstha from Alandi organized a unique global pilgrimage of symbolic Paduka belonging to two revered saints, Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj.
As part of this spiritual tour, the holy Padukas reached London, where they were venerated by devotees from the Indian diaspora. This sacred pilgrimage aimed to offer the followers a chance to reconnect with their spiritual roots and seek blessings, even while living abroad.
The president of the Vishwashanti Jagatguru Seva Sanstha, Dada Karande, highlighted that the year marks the 700th birth anniversary of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj.
He emphasized the enduring legacy of Sant Dnyaneshwar, who authored the universal prayer 'Pasayadan' through the Warkari tradition, a prayer that promotes the welfare and spiritual upliftment of all humankind.
In line with this philosophy, the Paduka darshan program was crafted to spread the message of peace, unity, and brotherhood through Sant literature and teachings.
The spiritual journey began on Wednesday with a visit to the Sanjivan Samadhi (final resting place) of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj at Alandi, where a Paduka puja was performed in his honor.
The occasion was marked by a vibrant procession accompanied by traditional music played on instruments such as the 'Taal' and 'Mridang,' followed by a circumambulation of the town.
The gathering received the blessings of Shantibrahma Maroti Maharaj Kurekar. Several eminent personalities, including Ram Gaavde, D. D. Bhosale, Vitthal Shinde, and others, were present to offer their support and well-wishes.
The symbolic Padukas were then ceremoniously taken on a journey from Alandi via Dehu to Mumbai International Airport, from where they were flown to London.
Upon arrival at Heathrow Airport, the sacred items were received by the Slough Mitra Mandal with a warm and traditional welcome led by Mandar Mirashi, Anand Pandit, and Sagar Kulkarni.
Over the weekend, a two-day spiritual event unfolded in London, featuring ritualistic worship of the Padukas, the Abhishek ceremony (ritual pouring of sacred water), darshan for devotees, distribution of Mahaprasad (consecrated food), and devotional singing sessions (bhajans).