CM Bhupendra Patel Flags Off 148th Rath Yatra in Ahmedabad, Performs Sacred Pahind Vidhi

By A Staff Reporter

Ahmedabad — Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Sunday ceremonially flagged off the 148th Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Ahmedabad, marking the beginning of the city’s most revered annual religious procession. Continuing a sacred tradition, CM Patel performed the Pahind Vidhi—a symbolic ritual of cleaning the path of the chariot with a golden broom—for the fourth consecutive year.

The ancient ritual, performed before the chariot begins its journey, holds deep cultural and spiritual significance and underscores humility and service to the divine. The Rath Yatra, which features the procession of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra through the streets of Ahmedabad, draws lakhs of devotees each year.

In his address, CM Patel highlighted the Rath Yatra as a symbol of communal harmony and unity, stating that the annual celebration not only reflects devotion but also strengthens Gujarat’s cultural fabric. He also extended warm greetings on Ashadhi Bij, the start of the Hindu lunar month of Ashadh, and Kutchhi New Year, conveying his best wishes to the people of the state.