Ahmedabad saw a big rise in shopping on Ashadhi Bij, an important day in the Hindu calendar. This year, the festival fell on June 27, 2025. The day is special for the Kutchi community, marking their New Year and the arrival of monsoon rains.
From early morning, markets and showrooms were busy with buyers. Many people were looking to buy new vehicles or book homes and office spaces. The Federation of Automobile Dealers Association (FADA) reported that about 5,500 two-wheelers and 1,020 cars were sold in Ahmedabad. This is similar to last year’s two-wheeler sales, but car sales dropped by 10%. Last year, 1,150 cars were sold during the same period. Some showrooms even held group delivery events to celebrate.
Pranav Shah, the president of FADA in Gujarat, shared that the sales included everything from budget to luxury vehicles. However, he noted that overall car demand was slightly lower than last year.
Real estate also experienced a positive trend on this auspicious day. Many builders conducted Bhoomi Pujan ceremonies for new projects around the city. Families celebrated by booking new homes or offices and performing Griha Pravesh rituals, marking the start of their new lives in these spaces.
Ashadhi Bij is not just about shopping; it is also a time for cultural celebrations and family gatherings. Traditionally, families come together to celebrate, cook, and pray. The festival is significant for farmers, as it helps them decide when to plant their crops based on the moisture levels in the atmosphere.
In the past, Ashadhi Bij was celebrated mainly in homes with relatives, friends, and neighbours joining in. Nowadays, many organisations also hold events like Satsangs, music competitions, and cultural programs to celebrate the day.
The festival is deeply connected to nature and the changing seasons. In Kutch, where this festival is especially significant, the arrival of rain is crucial for the farming community. Farmers eagerly wait for the monsoons, which start around this time.
In addition to the local celebrations, Ahmedabad also hosts the famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath on this day. This year, the procession included 18 decorated elephants and 100 trucks carrying religious displays. Thousands of devotees participated, pulling the chariots through the streets of the city.
For many, Ashadhi Bij is a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to the future with hope and positivity. It is a time to express gratitude for life’s blessings and embrace new beginnings.
As the day concludes, the spirit of Ashadhi Bij continues to resonate in the hearts of the people. The festival not only marks the start of a new year but also strengthens community bonds and cultural traditions. In this way, Ashadhi Bij is much more than just a shopping day; it is a celebration of life, culture, and unity in Ahmedabad.
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