President to Attend Two-Day Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha

The annual two-day Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, is set to commence today, July 7, drawing a multitude of devotees to witness the traditional festival celebrating Lord Jagannath and his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. This year’s Yatra, traditionally a one-day event, extends to two days due to special celestial arrangements, a deviation from the norm since 1971.

President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to grace the festivities of the annual festival, which sees elaborate processions and celebrations as the revered deities make their symbolic journey from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.

The grandiose chariot procession, also known as the Gundicha Yatra or Chariot Festival, features the adorned chariots Nandighosha for Lord Jagannath, Taladhwaja for Lord Balabhadra, and Darpadalan for Goddess Subhadra. The devotees eagerly anticipate this auspicious event that signifies the divine journey of the deities.

As the ceremonial Rath Yatra unfolds, devotees offer prayers for peace, prosperity, and enlightenment, seeking the blessings of Lord Jagannath during this deeply spiritual occasion. The vibrant celebration is a time for introspection, devotion, and communal unity as individuals come together to honor the divine presence.