More than 200 Jagannath Rath Yatras took place in Gujarat, including the 149th annual procession in Ahmedabad, which ended peacefully. The procession started from the Shree Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur and returned in the evening after covering its traditional route.
Apart from Ahmedabad, Rath Yatras were organized in various cities and towns like Gandhinagar, Surat, and Vadodara. Security measures were extensive across the state, with a particular focus on Ahmedabad, known for hosting the largest Rath Yatra in Gujarat.
The day in Ahmedabad commenced early with Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah conducting the ‘Mangala Aarti’ at the temple. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel then performed the traditional ‘Pahind Vidhi’ and flagged off the procession.
The procession featured idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, traveling the customary 16-km route through the old city. The event saw a significant security presence with over 31,000 police personnel deployed along the route.
Authorities utilized advanced surveillance technologies like facial recognition cameras, drones, and GPS tracking to ensure the event’s smooth conduct. Emergency medical services were on standby, responding to 53 medical emergencies during the day.
Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi praised the peaceful conclusion of the 149th Rath Yatra, acknowledging the meticulous planning and dedication of the police administration. The Ahmedabad Rath Yatra, considered India’s second-largest, attracted devotees from across Gujarat and beyond.
