Pune, 21 June 2025: The annual Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage not only holds immense spiritual significance but also fuels a massive economic activity in Pune’s Market Yard. As thousands of Dindis (pilgrim groups) halt in the city for two days with the palkhis of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj, they purchase provisions worth crores from the Bhusar (grocery) and vegetable sections.
Pilgrims and Dindi heads procure essential staples like edible oil, rice, wheat, jowar, pulses, flour, spices, as well as vegetables like onions and potatoes in bulk. This ensures that the travelling devotees have sufficient food supplies for the next fortnight of their journey towards Pandharpur. Traders report that this annual influx of buyers generates business running into several crores.
According to Balasaheb Konde, Head of the Jaggery-Bhusar Department of the Bazar Committee, the Dindis intentionally stock up on durable items such as onions, potatoes, garlic, chillies, and ginger which do not perish quickly. Perishables are then replenished on route every few days.
Vilas Bhujbal, former president of the Adte Association, highlighted that the real leg of the Wari begins from Pune, and the Market Yard plays a pivotal role in equipping the pilgrims for this journey. Rajendra Bathia, former president of The Poona Merchant Chamber, noted that this consistent bulk buying results in an annual turnover of ₹3 to ₹4 crore in the grocery section alone.
Additionally, the demand for eco-friendly dining items surges during this period. Ninad Mule, a local trader, shared that around 3 to 4 lakh Patravalis (leaf plates) and Dronas (leaf bowls) are sold within just two to three days, as Dindis prefer sustainable options for serving meals to the Warkaris.
This unique blend of devotion and commerce during Ashadhi Wari significantly boosts the local economy while sustaining a centuries-old tradition that binds communities together.
