June 27th 2025.
The town of Angul was abuzz with excitement as the annual Rath Yatra festival commenced at the revered Jagannath Temple. The atmosphere was filled with devotion and traditional grandeur as devotees gathered to witness the divine journey of the Chaturdha Murti - Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Sudarshan.
The day began with Mangala Arati at the Anasara Bedi, followed by age-old rituals like Mailam and Tadapa Lagi. The temple premises were bustling with devotees from the early hours of the morning, their hearts filled with spiritual chants and devotional hymns.
The highlight of the festival was the Pahandi Bije procession, where the deities were ceremonially brought to their beautifully adorned chariots. The air was filled with the resonating sounds of conch shells, gongs, and chants of “Haribol”. The sanctity of the occasion was elevated by the presence of Kurukshetra MP Naveen Jindal, along with his wife Shallu Jindal and mother Savitri Jindal, who actively participated in the rituals. Naveen Jindal humbly performed the revered Chhera Pahanra, symbolically sweeping the chariot platforms as a gesture of devotion.
Addressing the gathering, Naveen Jindal extended his heartfelt wishes and prayers for the welfare and happiness of all during the Jagannath Yatra. At 3 p.m., the much-awaited chariot pulling began, with hundreds of enthusiastic devotees and local villagers coming together to pull the divine chariots. This sacred act is believed to bring blessings and prosperity to all who participate.
The Rath Yatra, celebrated in June-July, marks the journey of Lord Jagannath and his siblings to their aunt's abode, the Gundicha Temple. The deities stay there for nine days before returning, symbolizing love, unity, and devotion. The event saw a deployment of about 10,000 security personnel, including eight companies of the Central Armed Police Forces, to ensure the safety and smooth functioning of the festival.
The Rath Yatra is a celebration that brings together people from all walks of life, united in their devotion and love for Lord Jagannath. It is a time of joy, spirituality, and tradition, and serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the significance of unity and love.
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