Rain Fails to Deter Devotees at 72nd Maharishi Valmiki Shobha Yatra in Delhi

New Delhi: The Maharishi Valmiki Janmotsav Committee (Regd.) Delhi Pradesh successfully organized the 72nd Maharishi Valmiki Shobha Yatra on Tuesday, at Madhodas Park, Red Fort, Delhi. The grand celebration, held annually to mark the Prakatotsav (birth anniversary) of Aadi Kavi Maharshi Valmiki Bhagwan — the revered author of the Ramayana — once again drew massive public participation, undeterred by the day-long rain in the national capital.

Thousands of devotees, scholars, and community members joined the colourful procession, which began with a devotional gathering at Madhodas Park and culminated at the historic Bhagwan Valmiki Temple, Mandir Marg, Punchkuian Road, New Delhi. The Yatra featured traditional band performances, devotional tableaux, spiritual discourses, and cultural presentations depicting the life, values, and literary legacy of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji.

The event was graced by Former Chief Justice of India K.G. Balakrishnan and Shri Manoj Tiwari, MP, LoK Sabha participated alongside Chaudhary Manish Parcha, President of the Maharishi Valmiki Janmotsav Committee (Regd.) Delhi Pradesh. The distinguished guests, along with thousands of devotees, walked in the procession carrying saffron flags and chanting hymns in reverence to Bhagwan Valmiki Ji.

In his address to the gathering, Former CJI K.G. Balakrishnan said that Bhagwan Valmiki’s life continues to inspire generations across the world. He said, “Bhagwan Valmiki’s teachings on righteousness, compassion, and equality are timeless. It is heartening to witness the unwavering faith of devotees who gathered here in such large numbers despite the rain. Their devotion reflects the moral and spiritual strength that our society draws from the life of Maharishi Valmiki Ji”.

Shri Manoj Tiwari, MP, Lok Sabha , highlighted the Yatra’s deeper message of social unity and collective consciousness.
“This Yatra is not just a religious event but a living symbol of equality, devotion, and service. The values that Maharishi Valmiki embodied — compassion, wisdom, and courage — continue to serve as guiding principles for building a more inclusive and humane society,” he said.

Expressing his gratitude, Chaudhary Manish Parcha, President of the Maharishi Valmiki Janmotsav Committee (Regd.) Delhi Pradesh, said, “The success of this Yatra, even in adverse weather conditions, shows the deep faith and resilience of our community. For more than seven decades, this Shobha Yatra has stood as a testament to unity, devotion, and the teachings of Bhagwan Valmiki Ji. We are grateful to every devotee, volunteer, and well-wisher who contributed to this grand celebration.”

Senior patrons Ch. Pt. Durgadas and Kishan Lal Sinandi provided spiritual guidance throughout the planning and execution of the event. The organizing team comprised Sachin Gaur (Chairman), Madan Rukhar (Convenor), Anil Sinandi (General Secretary), Gaurav Pehalwan (Treasurer), Rohit Dilod (Manager), Vicky Premi (Spokesperson), Karan Parcha (Coordinator), Ajay Parcha (Acting President), and Anshul Rukhar (Vice President).

Devotees described the Shobha Yatra as a blend of faith and community service. The sight of thousands walking together under umbrellas and chanting in unison amid the rain created a stirring display of devotion and unity — reaffirming Bhagwan Valmiki Ji’s message that truth, compassion, and equality form the foundation of a just society.