Puri, Odisha – June 27, 2025: The sacred town of Puri witnessed a spiritual surge today as thousands of devotees from across India and abroad gathered to celebrate the world-famous Jagannatha Rath Yatra. The annual chariot festival, dedicated to Lord Jagannatha, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, marks one of the most significant events in the Hindu calendar and is observed with great devotion and enthusiasm.
The Yatra began early in the morning with the ceremonial rituals at the Jagannatha Temple, followed by the grand procession of the three majestic chariots—Nandighosa (for Lord Jagannatha), Taladhwaja (for Lord Balabhadra), and Darpadalana (for Devi Subhadra). Each chariot, constructed anew every year with traditional techniques, is an architectural marvel adorned with vibrant fabrics, sacred motifs, and intricate wood carvings.
As the Deities were brought out in a divine procession known as Pahandi Bije, chants of “Jai Jagannatha” echoed through the streets. Thousands of devotees gathered to witness the sacred event and take part in the traditional chariot-pulling ceremony, which is believed to bring spiritual merit and divine blessings.
The Yatra proceeds from the Jagannatha Temple to the Gundicha Temple, about 3 kilometers away, where the Dstay for nine days. This procession represents Lord Jagannatha’s yearly visit to the residence of his maternal aunt. On the ninth day, the return journey known as Bahuda Yatra will take place, followed by the Suna Besha, where the Deities are adorned in golden attire.
This year, the Odisha government undertook comprehensive measures to guarantee the safety, comfort, and well-being of the pilgrims. Over 10,000 personnel, including security forces, medical teams, and volunteers, were deployed along the route to manage the crowd and ensure the event proceeded smoothly. Drone surveillance, CCTV monitoring, and water sprinklers were also used to manage the crowd and beat the summer heat.
The Rath Yatra is a testament to profound spiritual devotion and also highlights the rich cultural and artistic. The grandeur of the festival continues to attract devotees, saints, and tourists, reaffirming Puri’s status as a major spiritual destination.
As the wheels of the divine chariots rolled through Puri, they carried with them centuries of faith, devotion, and the timeless message of unity and dharma.
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