Grand Balaji rath yatra illuminates Vijayadashami

Nine days Karnapura yatra comes to an end

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: The evening of Vijayadashami bore witness to a mesmerizing sight as the Balaji Rath procession during the Karnapura Yatra enthralled thousands of devotees in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Surrounded by a backdrop of towering skyscrapers, the chariot of Lord Balaji was pulled through the streets by enthusiastic youth from the Kumawat community.

The programmes commenced with a solemn aarti of Sri Balaji Bhagwan performed by Commissioner of Police Manoj Lohia at the temple in Karnapura. Subsequently, the priestly family lifted the festively adorned idol of Shri Balaji and placed it atop a beautifully adorned chariot. Trustees Ankit Pujari, Abhay Pujari, and Gopalkrishna Pujari encircled the sacred idol while devotees resounded 'Govinda, Govinda' in unison. Over 250 energetic youths from the Kumawat community came together to pull the chariot, creating a captivating procession that left spectators in awe.

As the procession reached Panchvati Chowk, Rajendra Pujari, Ashok Pujari, Anil, and Sanjay Pujari performed aarti of the deity. The chariot later retraced its path to the temple, followed by aarti and pooja ceremonies were conducted before placing the festival idols in the temple gabhara.

'Govinda Govinda' resounds in Rajabazar

A procession commenced in the morning from the Balaji Temple in Rajabazar, where the air echoed with the devout chanting of 'Govinda Govinda' by the gathered devotees. After the puja and aarti, the priest transported the festival idol of the Lord from the temple at 9.30 a.m. The idol was seated in a decorated chariot, which then embarked on its journey. A celebratory mangalvadya and a spirited band added to the jubilant atmosphere. The procession wound its way through various parts of the city, including Pandariba, Bhandibazar, City Chowk, Sarafa Bazar, Gandhi statue chowk, and Shahgunj, reaching the temple for aarti at 12 noon.