Gandhinagar, 27 June 2025: Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel flagged off the grand 18th Rath Yatra organized by SGVP Gurukul, Memnagar, Ahmedabad. Before the yatra began, the Chief Minister offered prayers to Lord Jagannath and, along with saints and dignitaries, placed the idols of Lord Jagannathji, Subhadraji, and Balramji on the decorated chariot.
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The CM extended greetings for Rath Yatra, Ashadhi Bij, and the Kutchhi New Year to all devotees present. As the chariot procession started, chants of “Jai Ranchhod, Makhan Chor” filled the air.
Swami Balkrishnadasji shared that while Rath Yatras happen across India, Ahmedabad’s yatra is especially significant. He added that this yatra brought blessings to Memnagar and nearby areas and expressed joy that the Chief Minister initiated the event.
This year’s celebration also marked the 124th birth anniversary of Shastriji Maharaj Dharmjivandasji Swami and the Golden Jubilee of Swaminarayan Gurukul, Memnagar. The beautifully decorated chariots traveled through a 7 km route and returned to SGVP in the evening, creating a festive and spiritual atmosphere.
Dignitaries including Deputy Mayor Shri Jatin Patel, AMC Standing Committee Chairman Shri Devang Dani, City BJP President Shri Prerak Shah, AMTS Chairman Shri Dharmshi Desai, and Sadguru Purani Shri Balkrishnadasji Swami, along with many saints and devotees, joined the celebration.