Kartiki Ekadashi 2024: Alandi Hosts Five Lakh Devotees for Grand Kartiki Ekadashi Celebrations

Pune: Alandi, a sacred site in Pune district, witnessed an influx of devotion and joy on Tuesday (November 26) as around five lakh pilgrims participated in the Kartiki Ekadashi celebrations.

The occasion featured holy baths in the Indrayani River, the Nagar Pradakshina, and vibrant processions of Vaishnav devotees, creating an atmosphere filled with spiritual fervor.

The festivities included the ceremonial Nagar Pradakshina, where Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj’s silver mask was placed in a palanquin and paraded through the town starting from Deulwada.

The procession paused briefly at Hajeri Maruti before returning to the temple by 7:30 PM via the Hariharendra Swami Math route.

Highlights of the Festivities:

The Kartiki celebrations began on Kartik Vadya Ashtami with the Sanjeevan Samadhi ceremony. Initial turnout was low due to concurrent elections, but numbers swelled dramatically by midnight.

Key routes, including Pradakshina Road, Chakan Road, and Gopalpura, were filled with devotees chanting “Mauli Mauli” and playing traditional instruments.

The darshan queue for Mauli’s Samadhi extended across the river, with devotees waiting over seven hours for their turn. Entry to Alandi was restricted for four-wheelers to manage the crowds.

Traders’ Concerns Turn to Relief

The initial lack of footfall caused apprehension among local traders, but the situation improved as the night progressed. By late evening, areas like Indrayani Ghat, Mahadwar Chowk, and Bharav Road were bustling with devotees, much to the relief of businesses.

Special Recognition for Lohkande Couple

Ashok and Alka Lokhande from Nashik were honored with the first darshan of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj’s Sanjeevan Samadhi during the early morning puja.

The couple completed an 11-day pilgrimage on foot to reach Alandi and stood in line from Monday evening to gain entry for the sacred puja. As a token of appreciation, they were presented with a Mauli idol, a shawl, and a copy of the Dnyaneshwari.