Pune: Grand Ratha Yatra in Pimpri-Chinchwad Marks National Dedication of Shri Ram Temple
Pimpri, 22nd January 2024: A highly devotional and saffron atmosphere engulfed Pimpri-Chinchwad as more than 5 lakh citizens joined the grand ‘Ratha Yatra’ organized on the initiative of Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Mahesh Landge. The event, in celebration of the national dedication of Shri Ram temple in Shri Ram’s birthplace Ayodhya and the consecration of the idol, witnessed enthusiastic participation from Ram devotees, creating an auspicious and festive atmosphere.
On Sunday evening, MLA Mahesh Landge led the procession, showcasing a record-breaking ceremony that captivated the city. The Ratha Yatra commenced from Bhakti-Shakti Chowk in Nigdi, featuring a spectacle of saffron flags, bands, and a chariot procession. The event, spanning seven days, included religious, spiritual, and cultural activities organized by MLA Landge, culminating in the grand Ratha Yatra.
The Ratha Yatra was a visual spectacle with thousands of two-wheelers and four-wheelers, four Vijay Rath, Ram temple replicas, musical performances, and various cultural events. The air echoed with the thunderous chant of ‘Jai Siyaram,’ as citizens, devotees, and participants created an atmosphere of joy and devotion. The route from Nigdi to Chikhali was lined with enthusiastic crowds, with MLA Landge leading the procession on foot.
MLA Landge, accompanied by Rama devotees, walked from Nigdi to Chikhali Ramayan Ground. The procession also included Karsevak and senior journalist Nandkumar Saturdekar and colleagues. As the Ratha Yatra progressed, citizens welcomed the procession by showering flowers on both sides of the route. The police ensured proper arrangements and seamless traffic flow.
MLA Landge, expressing his sentiments, stated, “The consecration ceremony of Lord Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya will be written in golden letters in the history of all Hindu brothers and India. The Shri Ram temple, which is the link between the idea of Hinduism and the ‘Akhanda India’, will be an inspiration for thousands of future generations. On the occasion of this auspicious occasion, Pimpri-Chinchwad is full of Ram. Best wishes to all Indians on this historic occasion. I appeal to have Ram in your heart… to celebrate the festival in your homes….”
