02-07-2025
Devotion, grandeur mark Tapi's birth anniversary celebration
Surat: The Diamond City was awash in colour and devotion on Wednesday as thousands of citizens gathered to celebrate the birth anniversary of the Tapi River — a revered lifeline and spiritual symbol for the people of Surat.
Riverbanks, known locally as Ovara, came alive with festive energy, prayers, and traditional rituals that underscored the city's deep-rooted connection with the river.
Celebrated annually on Ahsadh Sud Satam as per the Vikram Samvat calendar, the main events took place at Navdi Ovara in Nanpura and Ram Madhi Ovara in Jahangirpura, where residents assembled early in the morning to offer prayers.
The Tapi Aarti, a devotional hymn dedicated to the river, echoed along the banks as devotees lit ghee lamps, creating a serene, spiritual atmosphere.
"For generations, we worshipped Tapi as our mother," said Vipul Bhagwagar, a 53-year-old resident of Nanpura.
A key highlight of the day was the ceremonial offering of a 108-m-long chundadi — not once but twice — once in the morning and again in the evening.
Krunal Sailor, a municipal councillor, said: "Two years ago, we started the daily Tapi Aarti at Ram Madhi Ovara, even during rains, just like the Ganga Aarti. Today, the river's birth anniversary has become a major event.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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The area, once a dumping spot, is now a spiritual attraction."
As dusk fell, the riverbanks lit up with lamps and firecrackers, and the celebrations concluded with a Bhajan Sandhya, a devotional music session. Devotees also brought cakes to mark the occasion, which were cut and shared with all in attendance.
The celebrations not only honoured the river's sacred presence but also highlighted a growing movement to preserve and respect the Tapi as a symbol of natural and cultural heritage.
