Rath Yatra, one of the most ancient and revered festivals of Hinduism, is celebrated with great pomp in the city of Puri, Odisha. On this auspicious occasion, Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra are taken from Srimandir to Gundicha Temple in chariots. In the year 2025, this auspicious journey will start on Friday, June 27.
This journey is considered to be a spiritual journey of the gods, which devotees celebrate with full faith and devotion.
Rath Yatra 2025: Important Dates
Snaan Purnima: June 12
Anavasar Kaal: June 13 to 26
Cleaning of Gundicha Temple: June 26
Commencement of Rath Yatra: June 27
Hera Panchami: July 1
Bahuda Yatra: July 4
Sunabesa: July 5
Niladri Vijaya: July 5
Religious Aspects Of Rath Yatra
The chariots are swept by the Gajapati King of Puri in a special ritual called “Chhera Pahra”, which symbolizes equality of all before God. During this, thousands of devotees pull the heavy wooden chariots, which reflect their devotion, dedication, and spiritual feelings. This festival not only symbolizes the journey of the gods, but it also gives the message of love, unity, and spiritual advancement in society.
On June 22, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi reviewed the security preparations in a high-level meeting and directed officials to ensure that no untoward incident takes place during the Rath Yatra. Especially sensitive areas like the Grand Road will be monitored with the help of drones, CCTV cameras, and the Coast Guard. He assured that the government is taking all possible steps to make this year’s event completely safe and systematic.
Special Train Services For The Yatra
The East Coast Railway (ECoR) has informed that a total of 365 special trains will be operated during the Rath Yatra. These trains will run from various parts of the state, like Rourkela, Birmitrapur, Bangiriposi, Junagarh Road, Barampahar, Boudh, Jagdalpur, Balasore, Angul, Gunupur, and Rayagada, to Puri. In addition, special trains will also be run from places like Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh), Gondia (Chhattisgarh), and Santragachi (West Bengal).
These trains will be operated mainly on important days of the Rath Yatra so that devotees do not face any inconvenience.
