Rath Yatra 2025 Begins in Puri: Lord Jagannath Comes Out to Meet His Devotees
Lakhs gather on Badadanda as the divine siblings embark on their annual journey to Gundicha temple
Puri, Odisha | June 27, 2025 — The holy town of Puri in Odisha reverberated with chants of “Jai Jagannath” on Friday as Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra began their divine annual journey during the Rath Yatra 2025. This sacred festival, observed with immense devotion and grandeur, brings the deities out of the Jagannath Temple and among the people — a tradition that beautifully symbolizes the Lord's accessibility to all, beyond caste, creed, or religion.
The grand chariot procession, which began this morning after the Pahandi rituals, marks the start of a nine-day spiritual journey from the Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple, believed to be the Lord's maternal aunt’s abode.
Divine Verses Set the Tone of Devotion
As the sun rose over Puri, devotees resonated sacred Sanskrit hymns:
“Chaturbhuja Jagannatha, Kantha Sobhita Koustubhaha... Padmanavo, Bedagarvah, Chandra Surjya Bilochanaha...”
These timeless lines capture the beauty and divinity of Mahaprabhu Jagannatha, reminding us of his cosmic form that embraces all humanity.
Lakhs Join the Sacred Pilgrimage
More than 10 lakh devotees from across India and abroad thronged the Grand Road (Badadanda) to witness the sacred moment as the majestic wooden chariots — Nandighosa (Jagannath), Taladhwaja (Balabhadra), and Darpadalana (Subhadra) — rolled forward.
The festival is unique in Hindu tradition as non-Hindus, foreign nationals, and people from all walks of life participate freely in the rituals and festivities. In fact, Rath Yatra is among the rare times when the deities leave the sanctum of the Jagannath Temple, allowing darshan (holy sight) for all — irrespective of social boundaries.
Key Rituals Observed with Precision
Pahandi Bije
In the early hours, the Pahandi Bije ceremony was performed, where the deities were carried in a rhythmic ceremonial procession from the sanctum to their respective chariots. The pulling of chariots commenced after this symbolic procession.
Chhera Pahanra
One of the most symbolic moments was the Chhera Pahanra, or ceremonial sweeping of the chariot floors by the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri, the titular king and chief servitor of the deities. Armed with a golden broom, he humbly sweeps the chariot floors, signifying that before the divine, all are equal.
Chariots of the Gods: Marvels of Devotion
The three chariots are not just spiritual vessels but also architectural and cultural marvels. Each year, they are newly constructed using traditional methods and neem wood.
- Nandighosa (Lord Jagannath): 45.6 ft high with 16 wheels
- Taladhwaja (Lord Balabhadra): 45 ft high with 14 wheels
- Darpadalana (Devi Subhadra): 44.6 ft high with 12 wheels
These intricately decorated chariots are drawn by devotees using massive ropes, symbolizing the people's collective effort to bring the divine closer.
Spiritual Unity in Diversity
What makes Rath Yatra extraordinary is its inclusive spirit. Whether it's the priests from Puri's servitor community, foreign tourists, tribal pilgrims from interior Odisha, or elite urban devotees — all come together to pull the ropes of the chariots, seeking blessings from the Lord.
According to local scholar Dr. Subhendu Mishra, "The Jagannath cult is one of the most inclusive strands of Hinduism. Lord Jagannath is not only Vishnu but also a symbol of universality, combining Vaishnavite, Shaivite, Shakta, Buddhist, and tribal elements."
Security, Arrangements & Pilgrim Facilities
This year, authorities have made extensive arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the festival:
- Over 160 CCTV cameras and drone surveillance deployed across the city
- Around 180 platoons of police, along with NDRF and medical teams
- Special trains and bus services running to facilitate pilgrim movement
- Food, water, and shade points established along the Badadanda
The Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, in a message, said: “Jagannath Rath Yatra is not just a religious event but a global celebration of unity, devotion, and equality. May Mahaprabhu bless all.”
The Journey to Gundicha: A Divine Sojourn
After today’s chariot-pulling, the deities will rest in Gundicha temple for a week, followed by their return journey known as Bahuda Yatra. This will be followed by Suna Besha, when the Lords are adorned in gold ornaments, and finally Niladri Bije, marking their return to Srimandir.
Why It Matters
Rath Yatra is more than a festival — it’s a spiritual, cultural, and emotional thread that binds millions. It reiterates an ancient truth: God belongs to everyone. In an increasingly fragmented world, the message from Puri is loud and clear — in devotion, there are no divisions.
Reader Takeaway
As the chariots roll and chants fill the air, the Rath Yatra of 2025 reminds us of a divine legacy that embraces equality, inclusion, and collective devotion. Whether you are in Puri or thousands of miles away, the message of Lord Jagannath transcends geography — He comes to us all.
Jai Jagannath!
