Rourkela: Rourkela was bathed in hues of saffron this afternoon as the Ram Navami tableau procession, led by various ‘akhadas’, was conducted in a peaceful and grand celebration.
Upholding a unique tradition, the steel city holds the procession a day after the main Ram Navami festivities, turning a 2.5-kilometer stretch of the old Rourkela into a lively corridor of devotion, colour, and community spirit.
From Bisra Chowk, where the carnival-like parade commenced, the streets came alive with dazzling lighting, synchronized drum beats, and a sea of saffron-clad participants and spectators. “I’ve watched this procession for the past 40 years, and I must say, this year is truly extraordinary,” remarked Birendra Singh, a local businessman who runs a spare parts shop at Bisra Chowk. When asked about what made this year special, he replied, “It’s more vibrant, the energy is different. Everyone seems deeply immersed in the devotion to Lord Ram and Hanuman.”
Also Read: Ram Navami tableau procession passes off peacefully in Rourkela
Out of the 23 akhadas in Rourkela, 17 participated in Monday’s festivities, with the remaining five scheduled to join Tuesday at different venues across the city. “The spirit is undivided, and everyone gets their moment to celebrate,” shared a member of one of the akhadas.
At sharp 3 pm, the first tableau turned onto the main road from Bisra Chowk, marking the start of the main procession. Among the participants was Rabinder Yadav of the Bhootnath Akhada, the City’s oldest. “My grandfather and father began this tradition, and now I carry it forward. Next year, my son will take part,” he said.
Notably, groups of young girls displayed impressive ‘stick work’ performances in front of their respective tableaus. “It’s a moment of pride for all of us,” said Sunita, a Class VIII student. Traditional Purulia Chau dancers and pulsating drummers added a cultural richness that thrilled the crowd.
Adding to the atmosphere of generosity and unity, numerous food and refreshment stalls lined the route. Volunteers distributed free water, snacks, and ‘Sharbat’ without any form of discrimination. “It’s something we Marwaris have done for years,” said a woman from a prominent business family. “We believe such acts bring blessings—and now many others join in too.”
On the security front, the administration left no stone unturned. With 23 platoons deployed along the route, eight inspectors, and four DSPs monitored the event closely. SP Rourkela coordinated operations from a control camp near Nalla Road, an area with a mixed community demographic. “We held two peace committee meetings and conducted flag marches beforehand to ensure clarity and cooperation,” he explained.
The procession proceeded smoothly and remained entirely peaceful.
PNN
