Maharashtras Gajanan Maharaj Palanquin Journey Draws Thousands of Devotees

Buldhana, August 19: A remarkable blend of faith and devotion was witnessed in Maharashtra’s Buldhana district on Wednesday. After completing its final stop in Khamgaon, the sacred palanquin of Saint Gajanan Maharaj set off towards Shegaon. Millions of devotees participated in this return journey, filling the air with chants of “Gan Gan Ganat Bote.”

During the event, Minister Akash Fundkar showered flowers on the palanquin, welcoming the devotees and praying for the state’s prosperity. The devotees sang hymns, played traditional drums, and prayed for the prosperity of farmers, good harvests, and the welfare of society.

A first-time pilgrim from Mumbai shared, “I came here with my wife and friends from Sambhajinagar. The atmosphere is so inviting that I want to return again and again. There are arrangements for water, tea, sherbet, and snacks everywhere. The people are very friendly, and the experience is enjoyable. The police have managed the traffic well, ensuring convenience for travelers. My only prayer is for goodwill among people and for the country to progress.”

A female teacher, who has been attending this pilgrimage for 20 years, shared her experience: “We are all teachers and housewives. We rarely get a chance to step out, but as soon as Gajanan Maharaj’s palanquin leaves Khamgaon for Shegaon, we wake up at 2 AM to call our friends and get ready. The peace we find here is unmatched, even after visiting Vithoba-Mauli in Pandharpur. The best part is that despite the crowd, there is no litter. Everyone disposes of their waste properly. This is a true manifestation of Gajanan Mauli’s grace. We will continue to come here every year as long as we can.”

Another female devotee remarked, “We participate in this pilgrimage every year. It gives us the strength to forget a year’s fatigue. The entire year passes in joy and prosperity after this. We pray to Gajanan Mauli for good crops for farmers and for everyone to lead a healthy life. We come every year and ask God for the strength to participate in this pilgrimage.”

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