A grand procession of 53 Jain communities mesmerises Mumbai as Maharashtra Governor flags off the Maha Ratha Yatra of Jain Sanghs from Shripalnagar in walkeshwar

Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan flagged off the Maha Ratha Yatra organized by all the Jain Sanghs of Mumbai on the occasion of 2550 th Bhagwan Mahavir Nirvan Mahotsav from Shripal Nagar Jain Mandir at Walkeshwar Mumbai.

MUMBAI, Sachin Murdeshwar (GPN): A grand procession of 53 Jain communities of Mumbai, who follow religious scriptures and rituals with utmost devotion, took place on the main roads of South Mumbai.
On Sunday, 29th September 2024, a magnificent procession, led by the most prominent community of the Tapa Gaccha sect, “Suriramchandra” and “Surishantichandra” communities, marched through the central highways of South Mumbai. The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri C P Radhakrishnan and  the minister of the Ministry of Tourism and of the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Shri Mangal Prabhat Lodha, with jain leaders Shri Bhartbhai Shah, Ramanbhai Shah, Hiteshbhai Mota, Vinodbhai Ajbani, Rajanbhai shah and others flagged the beginning of the procession from Shripalnagar, walkeshwar. The event was graced by the holy presence of revered Acharyas such as Pujya Acharya Shri Vijay Pradeepchandra suriswarji Maharaj, Pujya Acharya Shri Jaydarshansurishwarji Maharaj, Pujya Acharya ShriBhavyachandrasurishwarji Maharaj, and Pujya Acharya Shri Hitratnasurishwarji Maharaj, along with other saints, monks, and nuns. Thousands of devotees gathered to witness this extraordinary event in a joyous and devotional atmosphere.

Maharashtra Governor CP Radhakrishnan flagged off the Maha Ratha Yatra organized by all the Jain Sanghs of Mumbai on the occasion of 2550 th Bhagwan Mahavir Nirvan Mahotsav from Shripal Nagar Jain Mandir at Walkeshwar Mumbai. The Governor had the darshan of Munis and addressed the people assembled on the occasion.

Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Trustee Raman Shah, Diamond Merchant Bharat Shah, Hitendra Motaa and others were present.

The Governor of Maharashtra gave the green light for the Rath Yatra and gave his well wishes to all the Jains for religious and social activities. Jainism is a non-violence (Ahimsa) and a caretaker of all living beings. At the same time His Excellency addressed the ongoing essay writing competition in the state of Maharashtra under the 2550 Nirvana year of Bhagwan Mahavir Swami.
Around 53 communities from Mumbai and nearby areas participated in this grand procession. Four silver-encrusted divine idols were majestically seated in chariots resembling heavenly palaces. Additionally, 20 other idols, also made of silver, were seated in beautifully decorated palanquins carried by devotees from various communities, who were dressed in ceremonial attire. Over 600 men, wearing devotional clothing, had the honor of carrying these chariots and palanquins. A grand idol of Lord Adinath, which is to be consecrated in the Jain temple at Manchar, Maharashtra, was also placed on a float for devotees to seek blessings.
The procession featured over 150 representations with more than 15 bands and ensembles, creating a devotional atmosphere. On the grand stage set up at VP Road, musicians filled the air with devotional melodies. As the sun, which had been hidden for days, shone brightly today, it appeared as if it was casting a golden hue on all the silver-clad deities. The crowd of devotees was so immense that it seemed to rival the vast waves of the coastal city of Mumbai.
The procession moved through Hughes road, Opera House, Prarthna samaj , and CP Tank, culminating at the Shri Motisha Lalbaug Jain Sangh. Following the procession, revered saints delivered discourses, and devotees were served lunch (sadhramik bhakti) at 6 different places as per laid Jain principles.

About the Author

Sachin Murdeshwar
Sachin Murdeshwar is a Sr.Journalist and Columnist in several Mainline Newspapers and Portals.He is an ardent traveller and likes to explore destinations to the core.

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