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Bhonsla Royal Procession Marks 301 Years of Tradition
26 Mar
Summary
- The Bhonsla royal procession celebrates its 301st anniversary on Ram Navami.
- The tradition was initiated in 1725 after a divine vision of Lord Ram.
- Descendants of the royal family will attend the 301st-anniversary event.
The historic Nagpurkar Bhonsla royal procession will traverse the city on Ram Navami, March 26, marking 301 years of continuous tradition. This significant ritual dates back to 1725, when Shrimant Raje Raghuji Maharaj Bhonsle (I) reportedly initiated it following a divine vision concerning Lord Ram. Historical accounts suggest the ruler was guided to retrieve submerged idols of Lord Ram and install them at the Ramtek fort temple, an event preceding the establishment of Bhonsla rule and cementing Lord Ram as the family's deity.
The procession is the culmination of the nine-day Ram Navami festivities. A palkhi, carrying idols of Lord Ram and Lord Hanuman, will be carried by devotees through key areas of the old city, starting at 4 pm from Senior Bhonsla Palace in Mahal. The route includes Kotwali Chowk, Badkas Chowk, and Chitar Oli. Special arrangements are in place for the 300-year milestone, with Sarang Cultural Foundation organizing a welcome ceremony at Gandhi Putla on Central Avenue, including rituals and prayers. Descendants of the Bhonsla family are anticipated to attend and be honored.
