The 149th annual Jagannath Rath Yatra began from the historic Shree Jagannath Mandir in Ahmedabad’s Jamalpur with a large gathering of devotees. The temple was adorned with lights, setting a joyous mood as worshippers arrived early for prayers and the ceremonial start of the chariots carrying the deities.
Security measures were extensive throughout the city, with Ahmedabad Police, the Rapid Action Force, and other agencies ensuring a peaceful procession. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi confirmed the completion of preparations for the event, emphasizing the ongoing arrangements to serve devotees.
Devotees expressed their excitement for the yearly festival, sharing their experiences and devotion. The procession, considered the second-largest Jagannath Rath Yatra in India after Puri, traverses a traditional route in Ahmedabad, drawing crowds from Gujarat and beyond.
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah participated in the rituals at the temple, while Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel conducted the customary sweeping of the path before the chariots. This year’s yatra is under tight security, involving over 31,000 police personnel, drones, CCTV surveillance, and advanced monitoring systems.
