A tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad has claimed the lives of 241 passengers. Among them was Vijay Rupani, a former Chief Minister of Gujarat, who was a devoted follower of Goddess Ambaji. He often visited the temple with his family. The crash also affected passengers from the Banaskantha district, particularly from Danta. In response to this tragedy, priests at the Ambaji Temple performed rituals to honour the deceased. They chanted mantras and offered prayers for the souls of the victims, hoping they find peace in the afterlife. The priests also prayed for the quick recovery of those injured in the accident. The Ambaji Temple is a significant pilgrimage site in Gujarat, located in the Danta taluka of Banaskantha district. It attracts millions of devotees every year, especially during festivals. The temple is known for its unique worship practices, where no idol is present. Instead, worshippers offer prayers to a sacred diagram known as ‘Shri Visayendra’. The temple becomes vibrant during festival days, attracting large crowds. On auspicious days, such as Purnima (full moon), many devotees walk long distances to seek blessings. The Ambaji fair, held on Bhadravi Purnima, is one of the largest gatherings, with over 2.5 million visitors. The temple and the surrounding village are beautifully decorated during this time. Various stalls sell offerings, food, and traditional items. The local government and welfare organizations provide essential services to pilgrims, including food and medical assistance. The Ambaji Temple is not only a spiritual hub but also a place where cultural traditions thrive. The recent plane crash has brought a somber mood to the temple, but the community continues to show resilience and faith. The priests’ rituals serve as a reminder of the importance of hope and healing in times of sorrow.
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