Pune, Jun 27 : Objecting to hoardings and banners put up all over Pandharpur welcoming various political leaders for Ashadi Ekadashi festival, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde observed that instead of that, banners welcoming Warkaris (devotees of Lord Vitthal) should be put up in the temple town.
He made this observation during a visit to Pandharpur yesterday (on Monday), when he personally reviewed arrangements made for the Warkaris on eve of Ashadhi Ekadashi festivity.
Around 10 lakh devotees from different parts of the state and neighbouring states have come to Pandharpur to offer their prayers and seek blessings of Lord Vitthal and his consort Rukmini on day of Ashadhi Ekadashi which falls on June 29.
During his visit, the Chief Minister noticed that various political parties have put up banners and posters on every nook and corner welcoming their leaders in Pandharpur.
Visibly upset with this, the Chief Minister suggested to authorities and locals that instead of putting up banners of various political parties, they should put up posters welcoming the Warkaris who undertake the 15-day-long perilous journey barefooted to reach here with chanting of the Vitthal’s name.
The Chief Minister also gave necessary instructions to the district collector for smooth functioning of the procession.