Curchorem, July 11: Former Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) President Amit Patkar made a significant political and public outreach in the Curchorem Assembly constituency by joining the sacred Pandharpur Wari undertaken by devotees of the Sant Shri Dnyaneshwar Mauli Markari Trust. The Warkaris, led by Dr. Gurudas Naik from Curchorem, are on their spiritual journey to the holy shrine of Lord Vitthal at Pandharpur.

Walking alongside hundreds of devotees, Patkar described the Wari as much more than a pilgrimage, calling it a timeless tradition that embodies faith, equality, humility, discipline and unity. He said participating in the yatra and witnessing the unwavering devotion and collective spirit of the Warkaris was a deeply humbling and inspiring experience.

“Our culture and traditions teach us that true leadership begins by walking with the people, understanding their aspirations and drawing inspiration from their resilience and values. The spirit of the Wari reminds us that service to humanity is the highest form of worship,” Patkar said.

He offered prayers to Lord Vitthal and Goddess Rukmini, seeking good health, peace and prosperity for all, while expressing hope for a more compassionate, inclusive and progressive Goa.

The visit is also being viewed as the beginning of Patkar’s intensified political engagement in the Curchorem constituency ahead of the forthcoming Assembly elections. During his interaction with devotees and local residents, Patkar resolved to strengthen his grassroots connect by reaching every section of society and working closely with the people of the constituency.

Congress leaders said Patkar’s participation in the Wari reflects the party’s commitment to remaining connected with the cultural traditions and aspirations of the people. They expressed confidence that sustained public engagement and organisational strengthening would help the Congress reclaim the Curchorem Assembly seat in the next Assembly elections.

Political observers see Patkar’s move as an early indication of an energetic grassroots campaign, with the senior Congress leader seeking to combine cultural outreach with organisational mobilisation in a constituency that is expected to witness a keen electoral contest.