Rath Yatra: Amit Shah performs Mangala Aarti, offers prayers at Ahmedabad's Jagannath temple
Ahmedabad, July 16
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday participated in the Mangala Aarti at the renowned Jagannath Temple in Ahmedabad on the auspicious occasion of Ashadhi Bij and the 149th Rath Yatra and offered prayers with deep devotion. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi also joined the occasion.
Many devotees across the country have unwavering faith in Lord Jagannath. Every year, on the sacred day of Ashadhi Bij, Lord Jagannath, along with His sister Subhadraji and brother Balbhadraji, embarks on the city procession to bless devotees with His divine darshan.
Ahead of the Rath Yatra, Home Minister Shah, along with his family, performed the Mangala Aarti and offered prayers to Lord Jagannath.
On this sacred occasion of the Rath Yatra, which is a symbol of faith not only for the city of Ahmedabad but for the entire state of Gujarat, Mahant Dilipdasji of the Ahmedabad Jagannath Temple, along with saints, mahants, and a large number of devotees, remained present.
Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu extended greetings to devotees in India and across the world on the auspicious occasion of Mahaprabhu Jagannath Rath Yatra, saying that the soulful occasion marked the union of the devotee and the Divine is "truly unique."
In a post on X ahead of the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra that commences today, President Murmu highlighted the festival's spiritual, cultural and unifying significance and prayed for the happiness and prosperity of the country and its people to continue to flourish.
"On the auspicious occasion of Mahaprabhu's Rath Yatra, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all devotees of Shri Jagannath across the country and abroad. It is a widely held belief that during the magnificent tradition of this sacred procession, Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath, accompanied by Chakraraj Sudarshan, elder brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra, comes out to meet the devotees. This soulful occasion, marking the union of the devotee and the Divine, is truly unique," the President of India's official wrote.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While it's good to see political participation in religious events, I do hope the focus remains on the actual spiritual essence of Rath Yatra rather than making it a photo-op. The President's message about unity was beautiful though. Let's keep the faith pure. 🕊️
Growing up in Ahmedabad, I've seen Rath Yatra transform from a humble temple procession to this grand state affair. Sometimes I miss the old days when it was just local devotees and the sound of wooden chariot wheels. But I'm glad the tradition continues strong despite modern distractions. The energy of thousands chanting "Jai Jagannath" is unmatched! 💪🙏
Fascinating to read about this! I'm from the UK but have always been intrigued by Hindu festivals. The concept of the deity coming out to meet devotees is so beautiful and personal. It reminds me of the unity festivals bring across different communities. Would love to witness the Rath Yatra in person someday! 🌏
The union of devotee and divine - President Murmu put it so perfectly. As a young Indian, I sometimes feel disconnected from our rituals, but reading about events like this reminds me of the depth and beauty in our traditions. It's not about politics, it's about faith and community. May Lord Jagannath bless everyone! 🚩✨
Would be better if security arrangements for Rath Yatra were highlighted too. Last year there were some crowd management issues. Faith is important, but so is safety of devotees. Hope the administration has learned from past experiences. Jai Jagannath! 👍