Nagpur: From the echo of 351 conch shells to the sight of 94 elaborate jhankis rolling through its streets, the city will witness one of its most expansive Ram Navami processions, as the Poddareshwar Ram Mandir marks 60 years of its iconic Shobha Yatra. Spanning 3.5km and backed by 24,000 volunteers, the Shobha Yatra will blend grand scale, symbolism and evolving social narratives on Ram Navami on Thursday.The Shobha Yatra will commence at around 4pm following the traditional Rath Pujan. Maa Bhagawati, representing the balance of Shastra and Shaastra, will adorn the main rath. Union minister Nitin Gadkari, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, and host of other dignitaries are expected to attend Shobha Yatra. The yatra will follow its customary route, covering Old Bhandara Road, Mahal and Gandhi Gate, Cotton Market, Variety Square and then CA Road back to Ram Mandir.Poddareshwar Ram Mandir head Puneet Poddar said the procession will feature a total of 94 jhankis, depicting a wide range of religious and cultural themes. Among the key attractions will be tableaux on Brij ki Holi, Mahakal Darshan, Radha-Krishna Rasleela, Indonesia’s Bali traditions and the Jagannath Rath.A special jhanki by the kinnar community will be positioned at the 61st spot in the procession. The yatra will feature 108 young girls carrying mangal kalash. To manage the scale of the event, around 24,000 volunteers will be deployed along the route. The event will be livestreamed on social media from 4am. The Ram Navami celebrations will begin with a Mangal Aarti at 4.30am, followed by Shrungar Aarti at 6am. Morning hours will also feature cultural programmes, including shehnai vadan and devotional kirtans, setting the tone for the day-long celebrations. On Tuesday, mayor Neeta Thakre reviewed the Shobha Yatra route.
