60-year Poddareshwar Shobha Yatra to showcase 94 jhankis

Nagpur: The Orange City is set to transform into a vibrant canvas of devotion, culture and grandeur as the iconic Poddareshwar Ram Mandir marks 60 years of its historic Ram Navami Shobha Yatra. From the resonating echo of 351 conch shells to a breathtaking lineup of 94 intricately designed jhankis, the city will witness one of its most expansive and symbolically rich processions on Thursday.

Stretching over a 3.5-kilometre route and powered by an army of nearly 24,000 volunteers, the Yatra promises a seamless blend of tradition, scale and evolving social narratives. The procession will commence around 4 pm after the customary Rath Pujan, with the main chariot adorned by Maa Bhagawati, symbolising the harmonious balance of Shastra (knowledge) and Shaastra (power).

The event is expected to draw prominent dignitaries, including Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, adding to the significance of the milestone celebration.

Following its traditional route, the Shobha Yatra will pass through Old Bhandara Road, Mahal, Gandhi Gate, Cotton Market, Variety Square and C.A. Road, before culminating back at the temple. Each stretch of the route is expected to be lined with thousands of devotees, turning the city into a living festival of faith.

According to temple head Puneet Poddar, the 94 jhankis will showcase a diverse spectrum of religious and cultural themes. Key highlights include vibrant tableaux depicting Brij ki Holi, the divine aura of Mahakal Darshan, the enchanting Radha-Krishna Rasleela, glimpses of Indonesia’s Bali traditions, and the majestic Jagannath Rath, reflecting both local devotion and global cultural connections.

Adding a powerful social dimension to the procession, a special jhanki by the kinnar community will take the 61st position, symbolising inclusivity and representation within religious traditions. Another striking visual will be 108 young girls carrying mangal kalash, embodying purity, strength and auspicious beginnings.

Managing an event of this magnitude requires meticulous planning. Around 24,000 volunteers will be stationed along the route to ensure smooth movement, crowd control and safety. Civic authorities have also reviewed arrangements in advance, with Mayor Neeta Thakre personally inspecting the procession route earlier this week.

In tune with the digital age, the celebrations will also reach a global audience through live streaming on social media platforms, beginning as early as 4 am.

The Ram Navami festivities will begin at dawn with the Mangal Aarti at 4:30 am, followed by Shrungar Aarti at 6 am. The morning will be enriched with soulful shehnai vadan and devotional kirtans, setting a serene yet celebratory tone for the day.

As Nagpur prepares to host this grand spiritual spectacle, the 60th edition of the Poddareshwar Shobha Yatra stands not just as a procession, but as a living tradition, where devotion meets diversity, and heritage marches forward with renewed vibrance.

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