Surrounded By The Essence Of Tukaram

Endowed with a rich legacy of bhakti, DEHU is synonymous with tranquility and solace. Take a journey, as Citadel tours the holy hamlet...

- Aakanksha Chopde

Dehu, the small town situated on the banks of Indrayani, is a spiritual getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. This abode of revered saint Tukaram marks the beginning of the annual Palkhi in the month of Aashad. With cool breezes accompanying us, we decide to pay a visit and explore!

Our voyage towards the village starts off early on a Sunday morning. After a quick snack, we board a bus from MaNaPaBhavan. Throughout the journey, the uniqueness of our fellow passengers is not to be missed! The saffron gandha adorned foreheads, with women in traditional yet simple lugda, and men with the white topis, instantly reminds us of the Wari. A little girl ferrying a miniature tulshi-vrindavan is a glance into what awaits us!

The trip takes a little over an hour, and through the windows of the bus, we witness the transition from Pune city to suburbs. With blessings from the first showers, the scorched earth is decked up in all its lush green glory.

Nearing our destination, we are welcomed into the seer’s yards with a towering arch, in the middle of which is a petit statue of Tukaram, seated on an eagle. We alight from the bus near the flowing waters of the River Indrayani.

The bright sun reflects and crystallizes in the calm waters. This river is considered a Goddess, who having washed the feet of Saint Dyaneshwar as well as Saint Tukaram, is the lifeline of Dehu. There are numerous devotees washing away their sins in the holy water. The ferry boats are making a good business, giving a sight of the river to amused visitors. We also spot some children immersed in merry-making on the banks, splashing water on each other. A confluence of devotion and civilization, indeed!