Ahmedabad’s Jagannath Rathyatra likely to avoid pomp and gaiety following plane crash

Ahmedabad’s 148th Jagannath Rathyatra is around the corner. With the tragic plane crash weighing on everyone's minds, the Gujarat government and Mahant of the Jagannath Temple are likely to avoid pomp and gaiety at the festival that will be held on June 27.

The Air India plane crash claimed the lives of 270 people. Keeping the sensitivity of the situation, the yatra is likely to be conducted in a simple manner. A final decision will be taken after a meeting between the state government, the Mahant of the temple, and the temple trustees.

Mahant Dilipdasji Maharaj said, “A meeting is yet to be held with the state government and senior officials regarding the rathyatra. Currently, preparations are underway as per the tradition followed every year. Following the meeting, a decision on how to conduct the yatra will be taken.”

This year, the Jagannath Rathyatra falls on Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya, beginning at 7 am on June 27 from the 400-year-old Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur and returning by 8 pm after completing a 16-km route through the Old City.

As per the tradition, Lord Jagannath, brother Balbhadra, and sister Subhadra’s chariots are pulled through the heart of the city.

The procession passes through Jamalpur Chakla, Vaishya Sabha, Gollimda, Astodia Chakla, Madangopal ni Haveli, Raipur Chakla, Khadia Juni Gate, Khadia Crossroads, Panchkuva, Kalupur Circle, and Kalupur Bridge. One of the highlights is the stop at the maternal uncle's place (mameru) in Saraspur, where pilgrims are offered a lavish feast by locals at the Shri Ranchhodraiji Mandir.