The annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath is a grand spectacle that takes place in Ahmedabad Gujarat. This year the 147th edition will be held on July 7th.
A Beloved Tradition:
The Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad is a beloved tradition that has been celebrated for over 140 years starting in 1878. It ranks as the third largest Rath Yatra in India following Puri and Kolkata. The procession is a public festival (Lokotsav) that draws devotees and tourists from all over. The atmosphere is electric as people come together to celebrate their faith and culture. The procession typically includes 18 decorated elephants, 100 trucks, and 30 'akhadas'
The Procession: A Vibrant Display of Faith and Culture
The centerpiece of the Rath Yatra is the procession itself. Intricately crafted chariots made from coconut wood carry the idols of Lord Jagannath Balarama and Subhadra. The procession winds its way through a meticulously planned 18-kilometer route allowing devotees to catch a glimpse of the deities. The day begins with early morning rituals with the Mangala Aarti and Pahind Vidhi at 4 am followed by the start of the procession around 7 am from the Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur.
A Celebration of Culture
The Rath Yatra is more than just a religious procession; it's a vibrant display of Gujarat's cultural heritage. The procession features Akharas (gymnasiums) showcasing feats of strength and traditional wrestling. There are also beautifully decorated elephants trucks and floats depicting various scenes. Traditional music groups fill the air with devotional songs creating a truly immersive experience for participants and spectators alike. Over 18000 security personnel will be deployed to ensure a safe celebration for everyone.
Key Details:
- Date: July 7th
- Location: Starts at Jagannath Temple Jamalpur Ahmedabad
- Highlights: Three decorated chariots Deity idols, Large crowds, Cultural performances, Akhada performances
- Significance: On this day, Lord Shree Krishna journeyed to his aunt’s house with his brother and sister, Subhadra.
Safety Measures:
Of these, 4,500 personnel will walk with the procession, while 1,931 will handle traffic management. To address potential medical emergencies, 16 ambulances, and medical teams at five government-run hospitals will be on standby. Additionally, 17 help desks will be set up along the route to assist citizens.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest Airport is Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel airport Ahmedabad which is approximately 12 km away from The Jagannath temple, Jamalpur.
- By Rail: The nearest station is Kalupur. Ahmedabad is a well connected with all Major cities and State of India. There are many trains available to reach to Ahmedabad.
- By Bus: The nearest bus stand is Kalupur. There are many private and public transportation is available to reach to Ahmedabad in Gujarat. You can hire a taxi or an Auto or can use a Bus to reach Jamalpur Locality.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Jagannath Temple, Ahmedabad, India
