Every year in November over 300,000 people get together at the village of Alandi (Near Pune, India) to pay their respects to Saint Dyaneshwar who lived over 700 years ago. This saint was known for his humanitarian study and attempts at correcting the behavioural patterns of people in the society. The myths attributed to the Saint’s fame and popularity eclipse his effort in bringing people together and correcting idealogies which were segragating society.
There are many unique factors to this annual congregation, primary being unity among people. People of all castes, creed, and status join in this procession. The goal is common and they walk together despite their social, political or any other differences. Another fascinating aspect is that this procession is not organized by any social or government body, it takes place on it’s own at the designated time. People gather first in Pune and then proceed further. Charity is another characteristic of this procession. These were some of the character repair processes that Dyaneshwar managed to inculcate among people. That is what makes this festival so sacred and holy.
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