Union Home Minister Amit Shah performed the ‘Mangla Aarti’ at the Jagannath Temple in Ahmedabad, marking the commencement of the 147th Rath Yatra. Accompanied by his wife, Sonal Shah, Shah’s participation in the sacred ritual added to the fervour of the festival.
Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel and Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi were also present at the Rath Yatra. Patel performed the ‘Pahind Vidhi,’ symbolically cleansing the path for Lord Jagannath’s chariot.
The annual yatra, steeped in tradition, is underway in Ahmedabad, attracting lakhs of devotees. Over 15,000 police personnel have been deployed to ensure security during the event.
In a related development, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visited the historic Jagannath Puri Temple in Odisha to offer prayers ahead of the Rath Yatra.
The Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, transcends borders, celebrated with enthusiasm from New Zealand to London and South Africa. The three chariots—Nandighosha, Darpadalana and Taladhwaja—have been positioned at the Singha Dwara of Puri Srimandir, ready for the grand procession.
Globally revered, the festival symbolises the Holy Trinity’s journey to their maternal aunt, Goddess Gundicha Devi’s Temple, culminating in their return after eight days.
Today, Ahmedabad hosts the 147th edition of the annual Rath Yatra. The day-long procession will culminate at the main temple.
Security measures are robust, with more than 15,000 police personnel ensuring the safety of participants. Neeraj Badgujar, JCP of Ahmedabad Police, emphasised the meticulous preparations, including the use of technology such as CCTV and drone surveillance.
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