Every year, Ahmedabad celebrates the Rath Yatra festival on the day of Asadh Sud Bij. This year, the procession will take place on June 12. Recently, there were concerns about the event due to a tragic plane crash involving an Air India flight in the city. Rumours suggested that the Rath Yatra might be simplified or even cancelled. However, the trust of the Jagannath Temple has confirmed that the festival will proceed as usual. They stated that for 148 years, the Rath Yatra has followed the same route, and this year will be no exception.
The temple trust expressed their sorrow over the recent plane crash. They extended their condolences to the victims and their families. Despite the unfortunate event, they assured devotees that the Rath Yatra is not merely a festive celebration, but a sacred occasion for devotion. They emphasized that the day is meant for worship and to welcome Lord Jagannath at the homes of his followers.
On Rath Yatra day, Lord Jagannath leaves the temple and travels through the city. This day is special as it allows devotees to show their love and devotion. Many eagerly await the moment when Lord Jagannath arrives at their doorstep, and they sing praises to welcome him.
The Rath Yatra is a significant event in Ahmedabad and is one of the largest in India. It is celebrated as a Lokotsav, or public festival. The Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad is the third largest in India, following those in Puri and Kolkata. The festival has a rich history, believed to have started in 1878 when a saint, Narsimhadas, dreamt of Lord Jagannath, inspiring the first procession.
Traditionally, the Rath Yatra features chariots made of coconut wood, constructed by the Khalas community from Bharuch. Members of this community also serve as chariot drivers during the procession. The day before the Rath Yatra, a special ritual called Netrotsav is performed. This ritual symbolizes the treatment of the deities’ eyes, which are believed to be affected after consuming certain fruits.
The day begins early with the Mangla Aarti at 4 am. The main procession usually starts at 7 am. The Chief Minister of Gujarat performs a ritual called Pahind Vidhi, which involves the symbolic cleaning of the path for the Rath Yatra. Following this, the chariots begin their journey.
During the Rath Yatra, the chariot of Lord Jagannath leads the procession, followed by those of Subhadra and Balram. The event includes various festivities with decorated trucks, elephants, and cultural performances spanning over 14 kilometers. It is a vibrant occasion filled with joy and spirituality, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists alike.
The Rath Yatra is not only a celebration but also a time for people to come together, share in the festivities, and strengthen their spiritual bonds. As the day approaches, anticipation grows among the people of Ahmedabad, who prepare to participate in this grand event with enthusiasm and devotion. The Rath Yatra is a reminder of the rich cultural heritage of Gujarat and the enduring faith of its people.
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