139th annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath begins in Ahmedabad

In Gujarat, 139th annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath began this morning in Ahmedabad amidst tight security. The historic Rath Yatra began from 400 years old Lord Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur area of old city. The annual Rath Yatra or chariot festival is celebrated by Hindus on the second day of Sukla Paksha in the month of Ashadh.

AIR Ahmedabad correspondent reports that Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel performed the 'Pahind-rituals’ the symbolic path cleaning by golden broom at Lord Jagannath temple before the start of procession. BJP President Amit Shah performed Mangala Arti at the temple early this morning. In keeping with a century-old tradition, decorated elephants have the first glimpse of Lord Jagannath, who led the procession along its 14-kilo meter traditional route.

AIR correspondent reports that elaborate security arrangements have been made in the city in view of recent terrorist attack in Dhaka.
Gujarat is witnessing about 150 small and big Rath yatras today, out of which Ahmedabad Rath Yatra is historic.

The procession comprises 18 decorated elephants, 100 trucks with various exhibits, 30 religious congregations, 18 singing troupes along with three chariots. It will pass through some communally sensitive areas, such as Jamalpur, Kalupur, Delhi Chakla, Dariyapur and Shahpur in the old city before coming back to the temple by late evening.

Tight security arrangements have been made to maintain law and order situation during the procession. About 30 thousand securities personal have been deployed along the 14 kilometers traditional route of Rath Yatra.

The entire route of the Rath Yatra has been covered under the watch of more than 300 CCTV cameras and drones conducting aerial surveillance throughout the procession.

Some minority organizations including the members of Tajiya committee are also welcoming the Rath Yatra on its way to display the communal harmony.