The vibrant spirit of Ramnavmi celebrations illuminated the city streets on Thursday as devotees from various akhara committees showcased their skills amidst tight security arrangements. A spectacle of devotion and daring acts unfolded as thousands participated in the procession, infusing the air with joy and fervor.
The procession, adorned with bands and sankirtan parties, attracted devotees not only from the city but also from surrounding districts, adding to the festive atmosphere. With 167 akhara committees participating, the procession traversed through multiple areas before converging on the banks of the Subernarekha River. This traditional route, comprising 25 paths, witnessed a colorful display of faith and tradition.
The immersion ceremony, a highlight of the festivities, saw licensed akhara committees carrying immense saffron and red flags to five major ghats along the river. Rathyatras, depicting scenes from the life of Lord Ram, adorned the streets as chariots bearing idols of Ram, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman made their way through the city.
However, this year saw a notable change as the authorities urged akhara committees to refrain from showcasing dangerous stunts, prioritizing safety. Despite this, members of Sakchi Bal Mandir enthralled onlookers with their daredevilry on two-wheelers, while traditional weapon displays by major akharas added to the spectacle.
Adding to the diversity of talent, martial artists from Manipur, summoned by the Sonari-based Lalan akhara, showcased their skills alongside performances by chhau dancers from various committees. The streets reverberated with the beats of drums as devotees danced in jubilation, embodying the festive spirit.
In addition to the religious fervor, the celebrations also saw philanthropic endeavors with stalls offering various edibles set up by social and religious organizations. Gates adorned with colorful banners welcomed participants at multiple locations, further enhancing the festive ambiance.
Amidst the revelry, stringent security measures were in place to ensure the safety of all participants. Over 3000 personnel, including district police, paramilitary forces, and Rapid Action Police units, were deployed strategically across the city. Riot control vehicles remained on standby at the police control room in Sakchi, ready to respond to any contingencies.
To manage the influx of participants and maintain order, key routes for the procession were barricaded, with district traffic police enforcing restrictions on heavy vehicles and limiting the movement of private and commercial vehicles after 2 pm.
The Ramnavmi celebrations in Jamshedpur were not just a religious observance but a testament to the city's cultural richness and communal harmony, underscored by the seamless coordination between organizers, authorities, and participants in ensuring a safe and memorable event.
