The sacred city of Puri in Odisha is once again set to witness one of the most revered and vibrant festivals in Hinduism—Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025. Scheduled for Friday, June 27, this annual chariot festival draws millions of devotees from across India and the world, celebrating the divine journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra.
Significance of the Festival
Jagannath Rath Yatra, also known as the Festival of Chariots, symbolizes Lord Krishna’s journey to his maternal aunt’s home. It is deeply rooted in mythology and tradition, dating back to the 12th century. The festival represents themes of devotion, unity, and spiritual renewal, making it a cornerstone of Odisha’s cultural and religious identity.
Rituals and Schedule
The festival begins with Snana Purnima (June 12), where the deities are bathed with 108 pots of holy water. This is followed by Anavasara (June 13–26), a period when the deities are believed to rest and are not visible to the public.
On June 27, the main event unfolds as the deities are ceremoniously brought out of the Jagannath Temple in a grand procession known as Pahandi. They are placed on three massive, ornately decorated wooden chariots and pulled through the streets of Puri to the Gundicha Temple, about 3 kilometers away. Devotees chant, sing bhajans, and dance as they pull the chariots—a ritual believed to bring immense spiritual merit.
The deities remain at the Gundicha Temple for nine days, during which various rituals and festivities take place. The return journey, known as Bahuda Yatra, will occur on July 4, followed by Suna Besha and Niladri Bijay on July 5, marking the conclusion of the festival.
A Global Celebration
While Puri remains the epicenter, the Rath Yatra is also celebrated by ISKCON and other Hindu communities worldwide. In Prayagraj, for instance, ISKCON will host its own Rath Yatra on Sunday, June 29, allowing broader participation.