Palkhi 2013

In the Hindu month of Ashad (June-July) every year lakhs of devotees from all over Maharashtra join the traditional Palkhi (Palanquin) of Sant Dyaneshwar and Sant Tukaram from Alandi and Dehu respectively.  The devotees known as 'Warkaris' cover a distance of nearly 250kms to reach the famous temple of Lord Vitthoba in Pandharpur. Chanting, singing and dancing all along the road the sight of people engrossed in devotion is  a treat to the eye. This tradition was started by son of Sant Tukaram nearly 300 years ago and continues till date. Historians also believe that pilgrim to Pandharpur in the month of Ashad dated back to as early as 11-12th century.

click on the photos to enlarge (slideshow)

Shinde Chatri

Shinde Chatri is a memorial constructed in memory of Mahadji Shinde who served as commander-in-chief of the Maratha army under the Peshwa rule by Madhavrao Scindia-I. Located in Pune, this memorial is a marvelous piece of architecture and reminds of the glorious history of the Maratha's. A must visit if you are in Pune. 

Click on the picture to enlarge (slideshow).