Ahmedabad: The annual Jagannath Rath Yatra commenced in Ahmedabad on Thursday with elaborate religious ceremonies and extensive security arrangements, as thousands of devotees gathered to witness one of Gujarat’s most significant spiritual processions.
The yatra, now in its 149th edition, began from the historic Jagannath Temple after the customary rituals were performed. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel carried out the traditional ‘Pahind Vidhi’, a ceremonial act symbolising humility and service before the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra set out on their journey through the city.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also participated in the inaugural ceremonies, joining temple authorities and senior leaders during the religious proceedings before the procession began.
Authorities implemented one of the largest security deployments for the event, with over 30,000 police and security personnel stationed along the route to ensure the smooth conduct of the yatra. The security plan includes the use of artificial intelligence-enabled surveillance systems, drone monitoring, CCTV networks and rapid response teams to keep a close watch on the massive gathering.
Officials said the technology-driven surveillance system has been introduced to strengthen crowd management and enhance public safety throughout the procession.
The Rath Yatra is one of Ahmedabad’s oldest religious traditions, drawing lakhs of devotees every year as the decorated chariots travel through key parts of the city. Along the route, worshippers offer prayers, flowers and seek blessings while religious groups perform devotional music and cultural programmes.
Civic authorities have also made special arrangements for traffic regulation, emergency medical services and public amenities to facilitate the movement of devotees and minimise disruptions across the city.
The procession is expected to conclude later in the day after covering its designated route under heightened security and continuous monitoring by law enforcement agencies.
