Surat textile markets boast over 50,000 shops, accommodating thousands of traders and workers.
A massive celebration is being planned in the Surat textile market area during the Ram temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22. A grand feast for thousands is in the works, along with the illumination of the 3 km road for three days.
Surat textile markets boast over 50,000 shops, accommodating thousands of traders and workers. The Federation for Surat Textile Traders Association (FOSTTA) is spearheading the event, considering the widespread enthusiasm among the people.
Kailash Hakim, the president of FOSTTA, states, “Thousands of people want to join the event in Ayodhya, but all cannot go. So we are planning to make arrangements so that all can celebrate here.†Three markets have organised feasts for 15,000 people, with other markets gradually joining in. A total of 28 markets will set up LED screens to broadcast the event live.
“We are planning a three-day program. With LED and music systems, people can feel that they are participating in the actual event,†adds Hakim. Various groups will perform Ram Dhun, Bhajan, and recite Hanuman Chalisa during the celebration. FOSTTA is actively preparing 5,000 flags to be installed across the textile market area.
While some textile traders and market leaders proposed a rally on January 22, security issues led to the rejection of the proposal. Textile traders and employees are urged to light diyas at their homes.