In a vibrant celebration of Sindhi culture, Gujarat’s Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Friday launched the spectacular Shobhayatra of Lord Jhulelal in Ahmedabad to mark Cheti Chand. The event underscored the Sindhi community’s pivotal role in Gujarat’s development journey.
The procession, flagged off from Naroda Patia, was a joint effort by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and the Cheti Chand festival committee. Patel began by wishing the community well and highlighting the festival’s spiritual significance as a tribute to Jhulelal, the river god, aligning with Chaitra Navratri festivities.
During his speech, the CM praised the Sindhis’ resilience and enterprise. ‘From their roots in Sindh, they made Gujarat their karmabhumi, blending into its culture while holding onto their distinct identity,’ he said. ‘Their efforts in business and beyond have sweetened the state’s progress.’
Patel linked this integration to the national ethos of unity in diversity. He stressed the importance of such gatherings in passing down traditions to younger generations and called for participation in key national campaigns including rainwater harvesting, tree plantation, and cleanliness drives led by PM Modi.
BJP legislator Payal Kukrani from Naroda shared that the community sacrificed their homeland for their dharma and has since enriched India’s growth. The event drew senior officials, community leaders, spiritual figures, and thousands of devotees, creating an atmosphere of joy and solidarity.