The spirit of Maharashtra came alive for our Grade 7 students during a recent educational field trip to Dehu Road, where they had the unique opportunity to witness the vibrant and deeply spiritual palkhi procession — the renowned Wari to Pandharpur, dedicated to Lord Vithoba.
This wasn’t just a field trip — it was a soulful immersion into a centuries-old tradition that continues to thrive in the hearts of millions. As the Ashadhi rains gently drenched the land, our students stood undeterred, soaking not just in the monsoon but in the unwavering devotion and joy of the Warkaris. The rhythmic chants of “Mauli Mauli”, the echoing abhangs, the swaying saffron flags, and the dust-laden paths carried more than pilgrims — they carried stories, beliefs, and the spirit of unity and surrender.
Before embarking on this memorable journey, the students were introduced to the world of the Wari by Ms. Shruthi, who passionately guided them through the essence of the tradition. She narrated the stories of saints like Sant Tukaram and Sant Dnyaneshwar and taught them the lyrical and spiritual beauty of abhangs. This preparatory session laid a strong foundation for the students, enabling them to engage with what they witnessed on the field with greater sensitivity and understanding.
At Dehu Road, the students mingled with the Warkaris — asking questions, watching their dances, listening to their stories, and even trying their hand at traditional musical instruments. They observed how men, women, the elderly, and children alike walked in unity, chanting the names of Lord Vithoba with gleaming eyes and undiminished energy. They learned about the concept of seva, of collective strength, and of faith transcending hardship.
What made this trip particularly enriching was its interdisciplinary nature. The experience blended learning seamlessly across subjects — it was a live Social Science lesson on local traditions and communities, an Art and Music exploration with real-time performances, and a Language immersion through poetic compositions and folk expressions.
Back at school, the reflections poured in. Students expressed their awe, their emotional takeaways, and their newfound respect for traditions they had only heard about. In a culminating session, the entire grade came together to sing abhangs in chorus — a moment that captured the soul of the Wari in its purest form.
As educators, we believe in making learning real, rooted, and relevant — and the Wari experience was just that. It was not just about witnessing a procession but understanding a way of life. For our students, it was a lesson in culture, humility, devotion, and the enduring power of community.
