Rath Yatra Begins in Puri Amid Devotee Fervour

Bhubaneswar: The much-awaited Rath Yatra festival began today in Puri with the ceremonial pulling of the grand chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra. Lakhs of devotees have gathered to witness and participate in this annual spiritual spectacle.

The chariot pulling ceremony commenced at 4 PM, marking the beginning of the deities’ symbolic journey from the Singhadwara of the Shree Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple — believed to be their birthplace. The procession will span nine days and is considered one of the most sacred events in the Hindu calendar.

The day’s rituals began early in the morning with the Pahandi Bije, where the deities were ceremoniously carried out of the sanctum sanctorum at around 9:30 AM. A highlight of the tradition, the Chhera Pahanra ritual, was performed by Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb from 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM. During this sacred act, the king swept the platforms of the chariots with a golden broom, demonstrating humility and devotion.

As the majestic chariots rolled onto the Grand Road, waves of devotees pulled the ropes with immense enthusiasm and devotion. The procession began with the Taladhwaja chariot of Lord Balabhadra, followed by Darpadalana of Devi Subhadra, and finally, Nandighosh of Lord Jagannath.

The entire stretch from the temple to Gundicha Temple resonated with chants of “Jai Jagannath”, drums, conch shells, and devotional songs, transforming the city into a vibrant hub of spiritual celebration.

The Rath Yatra will continue over the next several days, culminating with the return journey of the deities known as Bahuda Yatra.