Pune: Trustee Of Alandi Temple Sparks Controversy With Misconduct Towards Warkaris And Police At Vitthal-Rukmini Temple
Pune: Trustee Of Alandi Temple Sparks Controversy With Misconduct Towards Warkaris And Police At Vitthal-Rukmini Temple
Pune | June 21, 2025
A controversy erupted at Pune’s Vitthal-Rukmini Temple after Yogi Shri Niranjan Nath, a trustee of the Alandi Devasthan Trust, allegedly misbehaved with Warkaris, media representatives, and police officials. The incident occurred amidst the ongoing Sant Palkhi procession, drawing sharp criticism from devotees and the public.
According to eyewitnesses, Niranjan Nath engaged in rude and intimidating behavior toward the pilgrims and journalists gathered at the temple. He is also accused of displaying arrogance and speaking in a disrespectful manner to police officers who were managing the large crowd present for the spiritual procession.
The incident has stirred resentment among Warkaris, who traditionally visit the temple during the Palakhi festival. “When those who serve God begin to think of themselves as owners of divinity, do they truly understand the essence of the Dnyaneshwari?” said one pilgrim, expressing disappointment over the trustee’s conduct.
The Warkari community has demanded that the temple administration take note of the incident and initiate appropriate action. The video of the altercation has since gone viral, intensifying public reactions on social media and within the spiritual circles.
Meanwhile, the Palakhis of Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj from Alandi and Sant Tukaram Maharaj from Pimpri-Chinchwad arrived in Pune on Friday. The city welcomed them with traditional rangoli, flower showers, and chants of “Vitthal Vitthal” as enthusiastic devotees joined the spiritual journey to Pandharpur. The atmosphere was vibrant with devotional energy, led by young and old alike echoing “Dnyanoba Mauli Tukaram!”
This incident stands in stark contrast to the spirit of devotion and unity celebrated during the Palakhi, leaving many saddened and urging for introspection and accountability among spiritual leaders.
