VIP Darshan Ban At Pandharpur Cuts Waiting Time For Lakhs Of Pilgrims
VIP Darshan Ban At Pandharpur Cuts Waiting Time For Lakhs Of Pilgrims
Pandharpur, July 7, 2025: The Solapur district administration’s decision to ban VIP darshan at the Vitthal-Rukmini Temple has significantly reduced waiting times for lakhs of devotees visiting during the Ashadhi Ekadashi pilgrimage.
Previously, warkaris (pilgrims) endured queues lasting 10 to 15 hours as VIPs were allowed priority access through separate routes. This year, under the no-VIP policy, many pilgrims completed their darshan in nearly half the time.
District collector Kumar Ashirwad said the measure was introduced to ensure fairness and better crowd management. “VIP darshan has been completely banned. Any violations will face strict action under the Disaster Management Act,” he said.
The administration has also declared a no-vehicle zone from Chauphala to the temple and deployed golf carts for senior citizens. Additional measures such as improved queue systems, digital display boards, online passes, drinking water stations, and first-aid kiosks have been put in place to streamline the pilgrimage.
The decision follows complaints of private agents duping pilgrims with promises of VIP access for money, creating law and order concerns.
Officials are now considering extending the VIP darshan ban to all monthly Ekadashis.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis visited Wakhari on Saturday to pay respects to the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj Palkhi procession from Alandi, accompanied by guardian minister Jaykumar Gore.
