Ram Navami was celebrated with immense devotion and vibrant energy in Bhopal on Sunday, as thousands of worshippers filled the streets and temples for processions, kalash yatras, and rituals. But the spiritual fervour came with widespread traffic congestion and long delays for commuters.
From early morning, major temples such as Shri Kalika Mandir, Mata Mandir, and those in Kolar, Birla Nagar, and the Old City overflowed with devotees. Dressed in traditional attire, many joined processions with decorated idols, saffron flags, dhols, and DJs blaring devotional songs.
To manage the rush, Bhopal Traffic Police diverted routes and made several roads one-way. Officers were stationed at key points to monitor movement.
“We’ve diverted routes around major temples and placed barricades at choke points to manage traffic better,” said a traffic policeman near Yadgar-e-Shahjahani Park. “We understand the inconvenience, but public safety is our top priority.”
Even so, congestion hit areas like Roshanpura, New Market, Bittan Market, and Lakherapura. Frustrated drivers were trapped in long queues.
“I got stuck in the jam near Roshanpura Square for almost an hour,” said Ravi Malhotra, a local resident. “The honking was unbearable and there was no clear guidance on alternative routes.”
Inside temples, however, aartis, chants, and bhandaara created a deeply devotional atmosphere. At Kalika Temple, a kalash yatra with drums and DJs had people dancing with fervour.
“I’ve been part of the Kalash Yatra every year,” said Ragini, a devotee who visited with her family. “Yes, the crowd was overwhelming and traffic was bad, but for me, it’s about spiritual peace and the blessings of Mata Rani.”
Outside, crowds spilled onto roads, slowing traffic further. “We were trying to take a shortcut through New Market but ended up stuck for 40 minutes,” said Nitesh Jain, taking his elderly parents to the doctor. “There were too many vehicles, and the loudspeakers and DJs added to the chaos.”
Temples were adorned with lights and flowers, appearing as grand as wedding venues. Devotees waited in long queues for free meals distributed by temple trusts.
In Kolar, an evening procession blocked residential lanes. “We’ve been receiving calls from people stuck near Signature Residency,” said a constable in the area. “Additional staff has been sent to ease the situation.”
Some commuters expressed frustration over the lack of advance notice. “Had we known about the rerouting, we would’ve taken a different path altogether,” said Anjali Sinha, who missed her train after being stuck near BHEL Temple. “I missed my booking because we were stuck for over half an hour.”
Despite the traffic, many found the day spiritually rewarding. “Yes, it was a challenge getting here, but being part of the celebrations makes it worth it,” said Champa Devi, a senior devotee at Mata Mandir.
