Annual processions of Shri Ram Rath and Garud Rath today

Nashik: The annual processions of the Shri Ram Rath and Garud Rath, held as part of the Ram Navami celebrations, will traverse their traditional routes on Sunday.For centuries, the tradition of the Ram Rath and Garud Rath processions continued in the city following the Ram Navami festivities. Over the years, devotees in thousands have flocked to the old city to participate in this religious tradition, also known as ‘Rathotsav.'Every year, the decorated chariots are taken out from the Shri Kalaram Temple as devotees shout chants of ‘Jai Siya Ram', ‘Siyavar Ramchandra Ki Jai', and ‘Pawansuta Hanuman Ki Jai'. The presence of dhol troupes leading the raths adds to the spiritual atmosphere. Arches are erected along the entire procession route. As the processions pass from one place to another, devotees traditionally burst firecrackers and distribute Prasad.The Nashik city police have deployed a heavy bandobast in the old city area, and the entire procession route is closed to vehicular movement.Senior police officers said all major entry points along the route are barricaded. Vehicles are prohibited from entering the procession path from 2pm onwards. These restrictions will remain in place until the processions return to their starting point at the East Gate of the Kalaram Temple.A strong force of police personnel and home guards will be stationed at various points to ensure the event is celebrated with enthusiasm and remains free of any untoward incidents.