MUMBAI: Under the supreme reign of Lord Mahavir, a grand chariot procession (Maha Rath Yatra) organized by Jain Sanghs who practice devotion strictly in accordance with Jain Agamas and Dharma scriptures, will take place on Sunday, 21st September, on the central roads of South Mumbai.
In the metropolitan city of Mumbai, this unique and exemplary Rath Yatra aims to establish the ideals of scriptural authenticity and righteous conduct (vidhimarg). The procession will commence at 8:30 AM from Chandanbala Jain Sangh, Walkeshwar, and it is expected to witness a massive turnout of devotees from across Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, and various areas of Mumbai.
The Rath Yatra, starting from Chandanbala–Shripalnagar–Malabar Hill, will sanctify key central roads of Mumbai as it passes through Chowpatty, Sukhsagar, Girgaon, Khetwadi, CP Tank, and will conclude at the Motisha Lalbaug Jain Temple in Bhuleshwar. Following the procession, a grand religious assembly (Dharma Sabha) will take place, during which revered Gurubhagwants will explain the spiritual significance of the Rath Yatra and share details of upcoming events. Thousands of fellow Jain devotees will participate in collective spiritual devotion.
This grand event is being organized by all Jain Sanghs and spiritual aspirants of Greater Mumbai, strictly adhering to the Jain Agamas and traditional scriptural practices. The Rath Yatra is a mark of Anumodna (rejoicing in others’ spiritual practices) of the austerities performed during Paryushan Mahaparva, and is considered a part of the annual spiritual duties of Jain householders (Shravaks).
The event will be graced by over 300+ revered monks and nuns, including some of the most respected Acharyas from the renowned Tapagacch sect, especially those associated with the community of Suriramchandra, and the lineages of Surishantichandra and Siddhisuriji Maharaj. Some of the prominent spiritual leaders participating are:
* Param Pujya Acharya Devesh Shrimad Vijay Shreyansprabhasuriswarji Maharaj, a renowned orator and spiritual guide currently residing in South Mumbai for Chaturmas; Adhyatmasamrat Param Pujya Acharya Devesh Shrimad Vijay Yogtilaksuriswarji Maharaj; Param Pujya Acharya Devesh Shrimad Vijay Harshsheelsuriswarji Maharaj, known for his melodious discourses; Param Pujya Acharya Devesh Shrimad Vijay Mokshratishuriswarji Maharaj, a poet at heart; Param Pujya Acharya Devesh Shrimad Vijay Hitratnasuriswarji Maharaj, and many other monks, scholars, and ascetics.
Thousands of Jain devotees will gather to chant the praises of the Jain order (Shasan). The procession will include:
5 Indra Dhwajas (flags); Over 45 floats from different Sanghs; 35+ initiates (Diksharthis); Depictions of Lord Neminath, Shripal-Mayna, 108 Parshwanath Tirth (Kondhwa, Pune);
Over 15 marching bands, Puneri Dhols, various rare Mandalis (spiritual performance groups);100+ volunteers holding inspiring spiritual quotes; Over 500 Pathshala children; 7 chariots representing 7 Tirthankaras, and much more.
One of the most notable highlights of this Rath Yatra, which justifies the title “Maha Rath Yatra,” is its unwavering adherence to the fundamental principles and ideals of Jain Dharma, visibly upheld throughout the entire event.
Special Attraction This Year:-
Devoted youth dressed in ceremonial worship attire will carry palanquins of all 24 Tirthankaras (Jain Gods) on their shoulders — a sight to behold.
