Puri, June 27, 2025 — The sacred Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath began in Puri on Friday, drawing tens of thousands of devotees onto the Grand Road as the deities embarked on their nine-day journey to the Gundicha Temple. The streets echoed with devotional chants, rhythmic drumbeats, and an overwhelming sense of spiritual energy as chariots carrying Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra rolled forward in one of Hinduism’s most revered festivals.
The ceremonial highlight was the ‘Chhera Pahanra’ ritual — a symbolic act of humility where Puri’s titular king, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, swept around the chariots with a golden broom. He performed the sacred act while sprinkling sandalwood water and flowers, invoking divine blessings for the procession. This ancient tradition signifies that all are equal before God, regardless of status.
Following this, the three majestic chariots — Nandighosha for Lord Jagannath, Taladhwaja for Lord Balabhadra, and Darpadalana for Devi Subhadra — began their procession along the Bada Danda, Puri’s Grand Road. Dressed in royal attire, the Gajapati Maharaja arrived with full traditional honours, a reminder of the deeply rooted spiritual legacy of the region.
Odisha’s Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi joined in the celebrations by distributing Tanka Torani — a traditional fermented rice-based drink — to devotees braving the sweltering summer heat. The drink, known for its hydrating and energising properties, has long been associated with Rath Yatra festivities and Odisha’s cultural hospitality.
Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also offered prayers at the Jagannath Temple. “All three siblings have reached the chariots, and I’m satisfied with the arrangements,” said Pradhan, expressing contentment with the seamless organization of the event.
Odisha Minister Suresh Pujari called the festival a matter of deep personal and spiritual pride. “In Sanatan Dharma, Lord Jagannath is unique — he leaves the temple to meet his devotees. His darshan today is a blessing for us all,” he said, reflecting the emotional connect the festival fosters with millions across the globe.
The Rath Yatra, marked by its sheer scale and fervour, is not just a religious event but a socio-cultural phenomenon that celebrates devotion, unity, and Odisha’s spiritual heritage. As the chariots move forward, pulled by devotees with chants of “Jai Jagannath,” the spirit of the Yatra transcends borders and barriers.
