Jaipur, Mar 26 (PTI) A large number of people took part in a grand Ram Navami procession here on Thursday evening, marked by a striking display of communal harmony as members of the Muslim community traditionally welcomed the yatra in the Hasanpura area.
Organised by the Ram Rajya Sankalp Seva Samiti, the shobha yatra began from the ancient Shiv Hanuman Temple on Jacob Road.
As the procession passed through the Muslim-dominated Hasanpura locality, local residents greeted devotees by showering rose and marigold flower petals, distributing water bottles, and even raising chants of ‘Jai Shri Ram’ to symbolise unity and mutual respect.
Both Muslim men and women took part in the welcome.
Arif Khan, councillor of Ward 41, said Hasanpura reflects brotherhood among communities.
“We brought flower petals to welcome the yatra, and we do this every year. Just as Hindus greet us on Eid, why should we not welcome the Ram Navami procession? Here, we focus on development, not politics,” he told PTI.
“Hasanpura is home to people of all faiths, and we live together as brothers. The greatest religion is humanity,” he said.
Local residents Ayub Khan and Islam Quraishi said India’s strength lies in unity across religions. “We exchange greetings on Diwali, Holi, and Eid, and live together in harmony,” Quraishi said.
The procession featured elaborate tableaux showcasing Ram Darbar, Radha-Krishna, Bharat Mata, Rani Lakshmi Bai, the Panj Pyaare, Maharana Pratap, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Musical performances, including drums and a DJ, accompanied the yatra, while members of Bajrang Akhara showcased traditional weapon-handling skills. Children also performed mock drills with sticks and swords.
A major attraction was a helicopter showering flower petals on the procession.
The yatra passed through Haripura, NBC Chowk, and Sodala Chowk before concluding at Shyam Nagar Hari Har Mandir with a grand maha-aarti. Local residents along the route welcomed the procession with flower petals, refreshments and fruits.
Yatra coordinator Mohit Mehra said this was the tenth edition of the annual event.
“This event has become a celebration of devotion to Lord Ram, our cultural heritage and social unity,” he said. PTI SDA RHL
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