Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Amid chants and vibrant festivities, the Sanatan Digambar Jain community took out a grand procession in HUDCO on Thursday morning to celebrate Mahavir Jayanti. The event began with flag hoisting ceremonies at the Manastambh in Kalikund Parshvanath Saitwal Digambar Jain Temple and Sanyam Kirti Stambh in Parshvanath Chowk, drawing hundreds of devotees.
The religious parade proceeded along the M-2 road, passing landmarks like Kailash Shilp, before reaching TV Center and looping back to the temple. Slogans praising Lord Mahavir echoed through the streets, as residents lined up to witness the colourful display.
The highlight of the event was the ceremonial chariots portraying Lord Mahavir’s divine journey. The Jayshree Santosh Sontakke family was honoured with the role of Mahavir’s parents. Other symbolic roles were performed by the Shekhar Waykos family (Saudharm Indra–Pallavi), Meena Chandiwal family (Kuber Indra), Shailaja Sangole family (Ishan Indra), Seema Waykos family (Sanat Kumar Indra) and Rambhau Gosavi family (Mahendra Kumar Indra). Aruna Sangve and Ujwala Kale carried the sacred scriptures, while Archana Amol Mogle took on the role of Mahavir’s aunt. Swarnim Sudarshan Jain was featured as the child Mahavir. A total of six chariots, nine horse riders, and Lord Tirthankar’s palanquin formed the core of the yatra. Cultural troupes including Swasti Mahila Mandal, Pisadevi’s Dandiya group, Namo Mahila Mandal, and dance and flag squads from Mayur Park and Cidco added vibrancy to the procession. Refreshment stalls were set up along the route for devotees and participants. Inside the temple, traditional rituals such as Abhishek, Poojan, Vidhans, and a community feast were conducted. The celebration was orchestrated by the Mahavir Janmakalyanak Mahotsav Committee led by president Vilas Jogi. Key roles were played by working president Vasantrao Manorkar, general secretary Amol Mogle, secretary Ravindra Sangole, treasurer Vardhaman Waykos, joint treasurer Rajkumar Lingayat, and coordinators Deepak Dikekar and Yogesh Dalal. Mahila Mandal President Savita Gosavi, Balbrahmachari Vikasbhayya, and Manjusha Singalkar also contributed significantly.