JJ Express ‘Domwar’: The Thriving Heart of Junagadh in Ahmedabad, Set to Complete a Glorious Decade in 2027
Ahmedabad: You can take a person out of Junagadh, but you can never take Junagadh out of their heart. This sentiment is beautifully embodied by JJ Express (Domwar), an egalitarian group of senior citizens, professionals, and Junagadh natives settled in Ahmedabad.
From a Footpath to a Movement What started in July 2017 as an informal gathering of just 6 friends on the footpath of Vastrapur Lake Garden has blossomed into a thriving community. Soon, the meetings shifted to the garden’s dome. As reports were posted on the “Junagadhi Jamavat” Facebook group, more natives migrated from Junagadh started joining. The group was formally named JJ Express (Junagadh Express), and because they met in the dome, the Sunday gatherings lovingly became known as ‘Domwar’.
A Melting Pot of Equality (Samrasata) Meeting every 2nd and 4th Sunday (with female members joining on the 4th), the group stands out for its absolute equality. Retired judges, doctors, scientists, professors, CAs, artists, writers, and businessmen leave their professional titles at the door. They meet purely as “Junagadh Lovers” to renew old ties and support one another. Regular attendance ranges from 30 to over 100, with more than 50 NRI Junagadh lovers frequently visiting.
Vibrant Activities & Milestones United by slogans like “Girivaraiva Kutumbakam” and “Giritwakarshan”, the group engages in numerous dynamic activities:
-
Old Ahmedabad Food Heritage Walks & photography competitions.
-
Heritage walks from Vastrapur to Gandhi Ashram with quizzes and favorite Bhajans of Gandhiji.
-
Excursions to Rani Ki Vav (Patan), Modhera Sun Temple, and a 3-day heritage trip to Junagadh.
-
A grand 2-day Art Exhibition at the Ahmedabad Art Gallery showcasing members’ artwork, attended by over 225 people.
Landmark Celebrations:
-
Domwar #100: A grand celebration at Shivanand Ashram with a gala dinner (250+ attendees).
-
Domwar #125: Live painting by renowned artist Vrindavan Solanki at Tea Post and a book launch compiling their social media reports.
-
Domwar #225: An exhibition of life-size Geeta paintings upon a Vice Chancellor’s invitation, featuring a glass dinner and prize distribution.
-
Domwar #300: A refreshing walk at the Riverfront Biodiversity Park followed by a picnic (Van-bhojan).
The Highlight: Today, on September 27, 2026, the group celebrates Domwar #323. Looking ahead, the JJ Express family is eagerly gearing up for a monumental milestone—completing 10 successful years in July 2027!
