Jawan turns messiah

NASHIK, Aug 8: Thousands of alcoholics thronged Lokhande farm along Nashik-Saikheda road, about 10 km from Nashik on Thursday evening, to get rid of their addiction with the blessings of Sheshrao Maharaj who is fast gaining popularity as the messiah of alcoholics in north Maharashtra.

Sheshrao hails from Chikhali in Buldhana district, and is a worshipper of Lord Shankara. An ex-army jawan, Sheshrao had ruined his health and family life by his alcohol addiction. He claims that he was driven to suicide as he had become penniless, but gained an insight in a temple of Shankara. He gave up his habit and started holding rallies for alcoholics two years back.

He used to address alcoholics at Shirpur in Dhule district. However, about a month ago, he became a roving preacher as local farmers complained that their crops were damaged by crowds thronging the spot.

After addressing rallies at Dindori, Dabhadi, Lasalgaon and Niphad, Sheshrao addressed a rally at Nashik on Thursday.