Puri, June 27 (UNI) In an awe-inspiring convergence of devotion and divine grace, over a million pilgrims gathered in Puri today to witness the grand Rath Yatra of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra—eternal symbols of the divine journey and cosmic rhythm.

Braving relentless monsoon showers and oppressive humidity, the faithful remained undeterred.

Their hearts uplifted, they came to catch a glimpse of Mahaprabhu as he emerged from the

sanctum and ascended his chariot for the revered nine-day sojourn to the Gundicha temple, accompanied by his divine siblings.

According to the temple Panjika, a rare planetary alignment this year resulted in the compression

of two significant rituals—Netra Utsav and Nabajouban Vesha—into a single, auspicious Thursday, intensifying the spiritual fervour preceding the Yatra.

As the gates of Simhadwar opened and Lord Jagannath emerged, adorned with floral headgear and divine grace, the Badadanda (Grand Avenue) resonated with chants of “Jai Jagannath,” “Haribol,” and the rhythmic huluhuli (ululation) of women, enveloping the atmosphere in a trance-like devotion.

Devotees, soaked in both rain and spiritual ecstasy, strained to glimpse their beloved Lord as He descended the temple steps in the traditional Pahandi procession, flanked by Daita servitors.

While cool water from sprinklers eased the physical discomfort, it was unwavering faith that truly sustained the massive gathering.

Beginning at Brahma Muhurta, priests performed the morning rituals, including Mangal Arati, Mailam, Tadapa Lagi, Abakasha, Surya Puja, and Rosa Homa. The deities were then dressed in fresh adornments and offered Khichdi Bhog—a simple yet sacred meal.

At precisely 10:20 a.m., the ceremonial Dhadi Pahandi (processional entry in sequence) began. Lord Balabhadra was carried to the Taladhwaja, Devi Subhadra to the Darpadalan, and Lord Jagannath to the Nandighosh chariot. Their regal journey was accompanied by the rhythmic beats of ghantas, mridangas, conch shells, and classical Odissi dance performances that elevated the collective spirit.

By 12:30 p.m., the Lord of the Universe had ascended His chariot.

In keeping with ancient tradition, Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Neeschalananda Saraswati of Govardhan Peeth offered prayers atop the sacred chariots, accompanied by his disciples.

Soon after, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingh Deb arrived in a splendidly adorned palanquin to perform the Chhera Pahanra—a ceremonial sweeping of the chariot platforms with a golden broom—symbolizing humility in kingship and divine servitude.

At 4:00 p.m., devotees were blessed with the opportunity to pull Lord Balabhadra’s Taladhwaja. This was followed by Devi Subhadra’s Darpadalan and then Lord Jagannath’s majestic Nandighosh chariot.

More than just a religious festival, the Rath Yatra is a cosmic choreography—an age-old divine drama reaffirming that the Lord descends to walk among His devotees.

Prominent leaders including Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy Chief Ministers Pravati Parida and K.V. Singhdeo, Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, and Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat were present to witness the celestial procession.

Amid heightened security concerns following the recent Pahalgam incident, the holy city was transformed into a fortress of vigilance. Over 10,000 personnel—including RAF, NDRF, NSG,

anti-drone units, and AI-monitored surveillance teams—ensured seamless security.

The Navy, Coast Guard, and Odisha Marine Police scanned the coastline, while lifeguards were deployed along the seashore to prevent drowning incidents.

Despite adverse weather, fire service personnel and NGO volunteers worked tirelessly—sprinkling water to cool the crowds, assisting fainting devotees, and attending to injuries on the beach. Nearly

a thousand devotees were treated and later discharged, their devotion unshaken.

District Magistrate Sidharth Sankar Swain, SP Vinit Agarwal, SJTA Chief Administrator Aravind Padhee, DGP Y.B. Khurania, Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, and other top officials coordinated

efforts with unwavering commitment to ensure a flawless event.

As the chariots prepare to roll forward and lakhs chant, "Jagannath Swami Nayana Patha Gami Bhavatu Me", the divine message is clear—Lord Jagannath comes forth, not only to bless the

world but to become a part of it.

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