A devotional yatra from Raigad district of maharashtra to Lord Vitthal (Lord Krishna) Pandharpur is in the news these days more for political reasons than religious ones. This annual waari was organized in a special way by Vibhag Foundation, in which slogans like 'Raigadcha Vikas' were not just showing faith but also hinting at a possible change in leadership.
Around 3,000 Warkaris participated in this yatra, most of whom came from Mahad and nearby villages of Raigad district. 5,100 laddus were offered at the feet of Lord Vithoba, which were later distributed among the devotees as Mahaprasad. The entire arrangement of the yatra like bus service, stay and food were kept free, due to which the event proved to be very popular among the general public.
Presence of political personalities and increasing discussions
The most attention in this event was drawn by the active participation of Bharat Gogavale and his son Vikas Gogavale. Vikas's continuous presence from the stage to the ground and his interaction with the common people is now forcing political analysts to think whether this religious occasion is a part of a well thought out political strategy.
Nationalist congress (Sharad Pawar faction) mla Raju Khare was also present in this yatra, which indicated that the event may not be just a one-sided but an effort towards regional power balance.
A period of speculations and possibilities
There is a discussion in the political corridors that Bharat Gogavale is working towards activating his son Vikas Gogavale in public life and this yatra may be the first public manifestation of that plan. Using the religious platform to connect with the public and build an identity is often the first step seen in indian politics. Vikas Gogavale's stage participation during the yatra, his closeness with the workers and direct communication with the devotees have further strengthened the possibility that in the coming times he will be more clearly visible in the political scene..jpg)
click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel