Devotees throng Puri’s Grand Road as the sacred journey of Lord Jagannath begins amidst chants, tradition, and festive spirit.

The holy city of Puri witnessed a spiritual spectacle on Friday as the world-famous Ratha Yatra of Lord Jagannath was celebrated with immense fervour, devotion, and grandeur. The ceremonial procession, marked by the pulling of three majestic chariots, drew over a million devotees from across India and abroad.

The air echoed with chants of “Jai Jagannath” as Lord Jagannath, along with Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, emerged from the sanctum of the Shree Jagannath Temple to board their chariots in a ritual known as "Pahandi Bije." The massive wooden chariots—Nandighosa, Taladhwaja, and Darpadalana—were beautifully decorated with flowers, fabrics, and traditional art.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Governor Raghubar Das paid their respects and oversaw the smooth proceedings. The Gajapati King Dibyasingha Deb performed the traditional “Chhera Pahanra,” symbolizing humility by sweeping the chariots before the journey began.

This year’s Ratha Yatra held special significance, falling on a Friday, allowing more pilgrims to participate over the weekend. Security was tightened across the city, with over 10,000 police personnel deployed and special trains arranged by Indian Railways to accommodate the rush.

Many foreign tourists and ISKCON devotees also took part in the celebrations, highlighting the festival’s growing global appeal. Local hotels and dharmashalas reported full occupancy, while markets buzzed with festive energy.

In a commendable move towards sustainability, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration ensured a plastic-free zone along the Grand Road, using eco-friendly decorations and waste management systems throughout the event.

As the chariots made their way toward the Gundicha Temple, where the deities will stay for nine days, devotees pulled the ropes with reverence, believing it to be a rare spiritual blessing.

The Ratha Yatra 2025 not only reinforced faith but also showcased Odisha’s rich culture, vibrant heritage, and its capacity to manage one of the world’s largest religious gatherings with devotion and discipline.