Shree Somnath Mahadev
Nagar Palkhi Yatra

For handicapped devotees

The Palki Nagar Yatra also serves another purpose: it allows elderly or handicapped devotees who are unable to walk to the temple for darshan to still have the opportunity to see Somnath Mahadev. As the Palki Yatra moves through the town or city, these devotees can have darshan of the deity.

Religious

When the linga or idol is in its garbha gruha, a devotee can only have darshan. However, during the Palki Yatra, the vigrah (भगवान् नुं प्रतिकात्मक स्वरुप) allows devotees to perform puja, abhishek, etc. on the idol. This leads people to believe that on the day of the Palki Yatra, Lord Somnath Mahadev himself comes to the door of the devotee. This arrangement, initiated by the Sompura Brahmins centuries ago, serves to enrich the faith and devotion of the devotees.

Social

When the Palki Yatra moves through the city streets, there is no consideration of caste or casteism. All devotees are considered equal before the holy feet of the Lord. This sends a clear message to the masses about communal harmony, emphasizing that in a society where casteism has no place, there is an enrichment of stability in the political and social welfare structures.

Cultural

In Sanskrit, there is a well-known saying, "जनाः उत्सवप्रियाः" which means that people are fond of festivals. Psychology suggests that entertainment is essential for relaxing the human mind. Even today, festivals remain a crucial aspect of celebration. Regardless of age - be it children, teenagers, young adults, middle-aged, or elderly - everyone enjoys festivals as a means to express their emotions and happiness. The monotony of modern living, akin to a mechanical existence, is seldom satisfactory for the common man. Festivals serve as a vital element to infuse enthusiasm and joy into their daily lives. They are a key factor in maintaining the good mental health of individuals, as they were thoughtfully arranged by our ancestors for this very purpose.