In a significant display of faith and community service, Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani, accompanied by his wife Priti Adani and son Karan Adani, participated in the revered annual Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri. The family not only joined lakhs of devotees witnessing the majestic chariot procession but also actively engaged in widespread philanthropic efforts, including a massive ‘Prasad Seva’ initiative.
The Adani family was seen immersed in the spiritual fervor, offering prayers and performing ‘Rath Poojan’ as the grand chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra commenced their journey from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. Videos circulating on social media showed Gautam Adani and Priti Adani personally involved in preparing and distributing ‘prasad’ (sacred food offerings) to pilgrims and volunteers at the ISKCON Kitchen in Puri.
This year, the Adani Group has taken on a substantial role in supporting the nine-day festival, which draws millions of devotees from across India and beyond. Under its ‘Prasad Seva’ program, the group aims to distribute an estimated four million meals and beverages to pilgrims, frontline workers, and officials managing the colossal influx of visitors between June 26 and July 8. This comprehensive ‘seva’ (service) effort underscores the Adani Group’s commitment to community welfare and aligns with Chairman Gautam Adani’s belief in “Seva Hi Sadhana Hai” (Service is Worship).
To facilitate this massive undertaking, numerous designated food counters and cool beverage stalls have been set up throughout Puri, offering clean and nutritious food and refreshments. Beyond food, the initiative also includes logistical and safety support, with the distribution of rainwear, caps, and safety vests to municipal workers, security personnel, and devotees. The Adani Group is collaborating with the Puri district administration, ISKCON, and various local volunteer organizations to ensure the seamless execution of these services.
Expressing his sentiments, Gautam Adani remarked on the immense pride and satisfaction he and his family felt in being associated with the Puri Rath Yatra. He emphasized that serving humanity is akin to serving the Divine and that service itself is a spiritual practice. This extensive outreach in Puri mirrors the Adani Group’s previous large-scale philanthropic endeavors, notably their support for food distribution and pilgrim welfare services during the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj earlier this year.
The participation of the Adani family and the significant humanitarian efforts undertaken by the Adani Group have added another dimension to the spiritual and communal essence of the Jagannath Rath Yatra, reinforcing the spirit of devotion and service that defines this ancient festival.