Regressive ideas have infiltrated the Warkari sect: Sharad Pawar

Claims that 60% of Warkaris are ‘fanatical’

Mumbai – Sharad Pawar, president of the Sharad Pawar faction, who is often accused of taking convenient political positions, has now criticised the Warkari sect. In an article written in a commemorative publication of a women government officers’ literary conference, he stated that “regressive” ideas have infiltrated the Warkari sect. He further made casteist claims that around 60% of people in the sect present views that strengthen “fanatical forces” (implying devout-Hindu groups), making divisive remarks and attempting to discredit the Warkari tradition. He also said that the growth of such ideas within a movement known for promoting equality and social awareness is a matter of concern. (Pawar may prefer “progressive” preachers and politically aligned discourse. His criticism is seen as politically motivated rather than purely ideological. How dare Pawar label a tradition that has historically united society by rejecting discrimination as “regressive”? – Editor)

🚨 Attack on Warkari Sampraday🚨

“‘Regressionist’ thoughts have infiltrated the Warkari Sampraday!” – Sharad Pawar

❗ Shockingly, claims are being made that 60% of Warkaris are ‘bigoted’

🚩 Hindus must unite to protect the sanctity of the Warkari Sampraday and resist political… pic.twitter.com/5eIw2gN2j7

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) April 11, 2026

Pawar mentioned that he has identified 40 preachers (kirtankars) who promote progressive ideas and stated that the number of such “progressive” voices should increase. He also noted that women’s participation in the Warkari movement is limited and called it unfortunate, adding that balanced participation from all sections of society is necessary. (The Warkari tradition has a rich legacy of women saints, and Pawar’s statement is a deliberate attempt to mislead. – Editor)

“It is outrageous that Pawar, who attends iftar gatherings, calls Warkaris fanatical!”: Tushar Bhosale

• Strong condemnation from devout-Hindu groups

• BJP and Warkari organisations react strongly

Mumbai – Tushar Bhosale, head of the BJP’s spiritual wing, criticised Pawar, questioning why he does not see fanaticism when attending iftar gatherings, but perceives it among Warkaris chanting “Ram Krishna Hari.” He alleged that Pawar has long held a negative stance toward Hinduism and the Warkari sect, and is now attempting to divide the sect by creating selective lists. He warned that such attempts would not be allowed to succeed.

Reactions from leaders and religious figures

Navnath Ban, BJP chief spokesperson, said that there is no fanaticism in the Warkari sect, but rather some “urban Naxal” elements may be attempting infiltration. He demanded that Pawar present clear evidence through his research team. He added that linking devotion to Lord Vitthal and social awareness with fanaticism is an insult to the tradition.

HBP Ganesh Maharaj Shete stated that the Warkari tradition is an integral part of Sanatan Dharma, and the community will strongly oppose anything that harms Hindu Dharma.

HBP Vitthal Patil, president of the Warkari Literature Council, demanded that Pawar immediately publish the list of 40 preachers he mentioned, so that people can decide whom to listen to or avoid.

Editorial Perspective

• Hindus should unite to preserve the sanctity of the Warkari sect and prevent such political interference.
• In fact, it is argued that under the guise of “progressivism,” anti-Hindu ideas have infiltrated the Warkari sect. The tradition does not need validation from anyone, and this is seen as an attempt to create division within it.
• How can the Warkari sect—whose essence is devotion to Lord Vitthal and which is enriched by a lineage of Saints—be called “progressive”? Even after his party has fragmented, Sharad Pawar continues to engage in divisive, caste-based politics that seeks to create rifts within Hindu community.