Devendra Fadnavis Leads Mass Yoga Day Celebration with Warkaris in Pune

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis marked the 11th International Yoga Day by performing yoga with thousands of Warkaris at Savitribai Phule Pune University in Pune. The event aimed to emphasize the state's rich cultural traditions and yoga's rising global popularity.

Fadnavis shared how simultaneous yoga sessions were conducted across locations where Warkaris, devotees embarking on a religious pilgrimage, had stayed overnight. He highlighted Maharashtra's ancient 'Wari' tradition, where devotees visit Lord Vitthal, linking it to yoga to promote wellness and spiritual growth. Celebrated saints from this tradition include Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram.

Highlighting the event's scale, over 700 institutions affiliated with Pune Vidyapeeth also participated. Fadnavis credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for yoga's international acceptance, emphasizing its role in holistic healing. Amruta Fadnavis advocated for daily yoga as a lifestyle rather than just a photo op.

(With inputs from agencies.)