At the historic fair held on the occasion of Bhadavi Chhath at Shri Devnarayan Temple in Jodhpuriya, Niwai town of Tonk district, Rajasthan, this year faith and social reform came together in a rare blend. Mumbai-based rising model and actress Ruchi Gujjar visited the sacred shrine on 28th August to offer prayers on the occasion of the 1114th Neelaghoda (Blue Horse) Avtaran Divas of Lord Devnarayan Ji Maharaj. From the open stage, she raised the clarion call for social reform.
The special guests present at Devdham Jodhpuriya included Rajasthan’s Minister of State for Home Jawahar Singh Bhaidham Ji, former MP Sukhbir Singh Jaunpuria Ji, Chairman of Devnarayan Board Omprakash Badhana Ji, senior Congress leader and MP candidate Prahlad Gunjal Ji, senior Congress leader and former MLA Gajraj Khatana Ji, former Viratnagar MLA Indraj Gurjar Ji, among many other distinguished dignitaries.
The most remarkable moment came when Ruchi Gujjar, in front of lakhs of devotees, spoke out boldly against two of the gravest social evils — dowry and child marriage. She administered an oath to the people present, especially the daughters of the community, declaring: “We will neither give nor take dowry.” Her courageous stand was received with thunderous applause and chants, making the moment historic.
Ruchi Gujjar’s Message to Society
In her address, Ruchi Gujjar said:
“Our daughters are no less than anyone. Practices like dowry and child marriage are the biggest obstacles to society’s progress. Today, from this sacred land, I urge society to pledge that together we will eliminate these evils and gift the coming generations a safe and bright future.”
Awakening of Social Reform
The event also saw the presence of Manish Bhargad (State President, Akhil Bharatiya Veer Gurjar Mahasabha), Phoolchand Gurjar (President), and Shailendra Dhabhai (General Secretary) along with other prominent leaders. Collectively, they emphasized the need to carry forward this resolve for positive change and social reform.
Witnessed by 2 Million Devotees
This year, the Bhadavi Chhath fair witnessed an overwhelming gathering of over 2 million devotees. The devotees not only came for darshan and the holy padyatra but also embraced the spirit of this social reform pledge.
Historic Padyatra of 1,000 Flags
Adding grandeur to the celebrations, a massive padyatra carrying over 1,000 flags was organized. This flag procession emerged as a unique symbol of unity and tradition within the community.
