Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel flags off Rath Yatra of SGVP Gurukul in Memnagar
Gandhinagar, July 16
On the auspicious occasion of Ashadhi Bij, Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel flagged off the 19th Rath Yatra organised by Shree Swaminarayan Gurukul Vishwavidya Pratishthanam in Memnagar.
According to the Chief Minister's Office, on this sacred occasion, the CM offered traditional prayers before the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra and performed the Maha Aarti in accordance with Vedic rituals.
Thereafter, in the presence of revered saints and distinguished guests, he flagged off the three chariots and prayed for the happiness, peace, and prosperity of the people. Mayor of Ahmedabad Hitesh Barot was also present on the occasion.
Notably, the 19th Rath Yatra was organised as part of the divine celebrations marking the 125th birth anniversary of Param Pujya Shastriji Maharaj Dharmajivandasji Swami and the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Shree Swaminarayan Gurukul, Memnagar.
The chariots participating in the procession were beautifully decorated with special spiritual-themed tableaux.
The Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath will travel along an approximately 7-kilometre route through Memnagar and nearby areas, offering devotees an opportunity to seek the Lord's blessings before returning to the Gurukul campus later in the evening, the CMO said.
The flag-off ceremony of this divine Rath Yatra was attended by Sadguru Purani Balakrishnadasji Swami, City President Prerakbhai Shah, Chairman of the Water Supply Committee of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation Dharamshibhai Desai, local councillors, revered saints, community leaders, devotees, and a large number of citizens who participated with deep devotion.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm happy to see the Rath Yatra being organised with such devotion, but I wish we also saw more focus on modern education and infrastructure development in Gujarat. Our youth need both spiritual grounding and practical skills to succeed in the 21st century. Balance is key. 😊
The sense of community and faith is unmatched in our country! 19th year of this Rath Yatra - that's dedication. The decorations and spiritual tableaux sound absolutely beautiful. Wish I could be there to witness the 7-km procession. God bless all the devotees! 🚩
These events bring people together irrespective of background. The Ashadhi Bij celebration is a beautiful tradition. However, I hope the large crowds and processions are managed well in terms of traffic and safety. Our infrastructure needs to keep pace with our growing faith-based gatherings.
❤️ Such a joyous occasion! The 125th birth anniversary of Param Pujya Shastriji Maharaj and the Golden Jubilee of SGVP - double celebrations! It's heartening to see our religious institutions thrive and continue their spiritual work. The entire community must be filled with pride today.
Nothing like a Rath Yatra to bring out the true spirit of bhakti! The CM performing the Maha Aarti adds a nice touch of state leadership respecting our traditions. Hope this continues to inspire the younger generation to connect with their roots while they chase their dreams.
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