Celebrations to mark Gudi Padwa began with great enthusiasm in Nagpur on Thursday, as a grand shobha yatra welcomed the Marathi New Year with traditional fervour. The city came alive with colourful processions, cultural displays, and active participation from people of all age groups. Children added vibrancy to the event by performing the traditional lezim dance, infusing energy and festive spirit into the celebrations. Devendra Fadnavis joined thousands of residents in the grand procession organised for the occasion. Addressing the gathering, he expressed his happiness at being part of the festivities and extended greetings to citizens nationwide. He praised the annual event led by Sandeep Joshi, noting that the city had turned saffron with people dressed in traditional attire, creating a visually striking and joyous atmosphere.
"I am very happy to be present at this Shobha Yatra today, on the sacred day of Gudi Padwa, the Hindu New Year. I extend my best wishes to all Indians on this occasion. Under the leadership of Sandeep Joshi, a wonderful Shobha Yatra is held every year in Nagpur. One can see the enthusiasm; Nagpur has been transformed into 'Bhagwa' (saffron), and people of all ages are participating in it in traditional attire. It's a beautiful sight for all of us to witness together here."Fadnavis said.
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The procession featured a rich display of cultural heritage, including lezim troupes, Varkari groups, and elaborate tableaux portraying historical and religious figures such as Lord Ram and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Marathi actress Sai Tamhankar also participated in the festivities alongside the Chief Minister, adding to the celebratory mood.
Organised by the Hindu Nav Varsh Aayojan Samaroh Samiti, the procession celebrated the Hindu, Indian, and Marathi New Year with pride and unity. Participants highlighted the presence of lezim performers, Varkari contingents, and numerous tableaux, making the event a symbol of cultural richness and collective joy. Overall, the celebrations reflected a strong sense of unity, tradition, and cultural pride across Nagpur.