More than 200 Rath Yatra processions are underway across Gujarat on 16 July, with Ahmedabad hosting the 149th edition of the Jagannath Rath Yatra — the second-largest such procession in India after Puri — observed annually on Ashadhi Bij. Elaborate security and emergency arrangements have been deployed across the state, with Ahmedabad's procession described by officials as the most sensitive in Gujarat.

Scale of the Processions

The Ahmedabad Rath Yatra covers a route of approximately 16 km, with Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath emerging from their temple to travel through the city. The procession draws tens of thousands of devotees, many of whom arrive at the temple as early as 3:30 am to secure a spot for the annual darshan.

Security and Emergency Arrangements

Gujarat Director General of Police G.S. Malik confirmed that complete security arrangements have been made for all processions across the state. 'More than 200 Rath Yatras will be taken out across Gujarat, and the police have made complete security arrangements for all of them. The 149th Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad is considered the most sensitive in the state. Security arrangements here are very good and continue to improve every year,' he said.

Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner Banchha Nidhi Pani added that the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation has deployed ambulances and fire brigades along the route alongside the police. 'All measures, including ambulances and fire brigades, have been put in place,' he said.

Senior Officials Participate in Opening Rituals

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah performed the Mangala Aarti and offered prayers at the temple earlier in the morning. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel carried out the traditional Pahind Vidhi — ceremonially sweeping the path before the chariots with a golden broom — before the procession commenced.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Mayank Nayak offered prayers for the festival, saying: 'May Lord Jagannath's blessings remain with everyone. This tradition has continued for years, and Lord Jagannath's blessings are upon Gujarat and the entire country.'

Devotee Turnout and Sentiment

Devotees who gathered outside the temple expressed deep enthusiasm. Several first-time attendees described the experience as emotionally significant. 'I felt immense joy. Today, for the first time, I had the opportunity to have the darshan of Lord Jagannath in this way,' said one devotee. Regular visitors noted the tradition of arriving before dawn — a practice that has become a hallmark of the event's devout participation.

With processions spanning the length of the state and Ahmedabad's 149th edition drawing national attention, authorities say security protocols will remain active throughout the day.