In a spectacle of faith and tradition, the Rath Yatra festivities commenced in Odisha’s Puri as throngs of devotees pulled massive chariots from the ancient Jagannath temple to the Gundicha temple, a distance of 1.5 miles. Led by Puri Shankaracharya Swami Nischalanada Saraswati, accompanied by the titular king performing the ceremonial chariot sweeping, the event unfolded amidst profound spiritual rituals.
President Droupadi Murmu, Odisha Governor Raghubar Das, Chief Minister, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan ceremoniously kicked off the yatra by pulling the ropes of Lord Jagannath’s chariot, Nandighosh. The ambiance resonated with the echo of Jai Jagannath chants and the reverberating sounds of gongs, conches, and cymbals as the sibling Deities, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, were carefully positioned on their chariots following the elaborate Pahandi ritual.
The procession, a deeply spiritual journey, drew nearly a million devotees, including pilgrims from across Odisha, neighboring states, and international visitors. It stands as one of the largest religious processions globally, a testament to the enduring faith and unity that this annual festival inspires.
