Thousands of devotees flock to eastern India for the second day of Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra
by Aditi VermaThe annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri in eastern India’s Odisha, saw a massive gathering of devotees on its second day as worshippers from all over the country came to seek blessings and participate in the grand celebrations.
The incident took place in Puri District on July 8.
Visuals showed the Rath Yatra procession was underway, and a massive crowd had gathered. Devotees were even watching from their rooftops to catch a glimpse of the spectacle. The idol of Lord Jagannath on the chariot looked exceptionally beautiful, adorned with vibrant decorations. The chariot moved majestically through the throngs of worshippers, creating a captivating and spiritual atmosphere.
The sacred town of Puri in Odisha witnessed a sea of devotees on July 8, as the annual Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra entered its second day. The festival, which began on Sunday, has drawn pilgrims and tourists from across India, eager to partake in the religious fervor and festivities.
The Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is a significant event in the Hindu calendar, celebrating the journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra, from their abode in the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. The deities are carried on grand chariots, beautifully adorned and pulled by thousands of devotees, symbolizing their visit to their aunt’s home.
This year, the turnout has been particularly large, with devotees expressing their devotion by chanting hymns, singing bhajans, and pulling the massive chariots through the streets of Puri. The atmosphere was electric with spiritual zeal, as people from various parts of the country gathered to witness and be part of this auspicious occasion.
Local authorities have made extensive arrangements to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the event, deploying additional security personnel and medical teams. Temporary shelters and food stalls have been set up to accommodate the influx of pilgrims, ensuring they have a comfortable experience during their stay.
The Rath Yatra is not only a religious celebration but also a cultural extravaganza, with traditional music, dance, and local cuisine adding to the vibrant atmosphere. The event continues to draw attention from people worldwide, symbolizing unity and faith among devotees of Lord Jagannath.
As the chariots made their way through the city, the sight of thousands pulling them in unison was a testament to the collective devotion and spiritual significance of this age-old tradition. The Rath Yatra will continue over the next few days, culminating with the deities’ return to the Jagannath Temple, marking the end of this grand celebration.