Chariots of Faith: Rath Yatra 2025 Begins in Puri

This morning, as a gentle monsoon breeze swept across Puri, the town awakened to an atmosphere charged with emotion and energy. Despite days of rainfall, the weather seemed to hold its breath, as if in honour of the divine event about to unfold.

Rath Yatra India’s most iconic chariot festival officially began, and with it came a wave of faith, joy and unity. The environment is filled with the sounds of conch shells, traditional drums, and lakhs of devotees chanting the name of Lord Jagannath with tears in their eyes and smiles on their faces. In a world so often divided, Rath Yatra reminds us of the power of shared belief. Here, on the Grand Road of Puri, people come together young and old, locals and foreigners, men and women to pull the ropes of the gods’ chariots and feel part of something greater than themselves.

The Chariots Are Here!

The highlight of Rath Yatra is the majestic sight of three giant wooden chariots, each freshly constructed with traditional tools and sacred rituals. These are no ordinary carts; they are intricately carved and painted with vibrant motifs that represent centuries of Odia craftsmanship and devotion. The chariot of Lord Jagannath, called Nandighosa, is the tallest and most elaborate. Lord Balabhadra rides Taladhwaja, while Subhadra’s chariot is named Darpadalana. Watching the deities being brought out in a slow, rhythmic ritual known as Pahandi—as they sway forward on the shoulders of servitors, with chants rising in the background—is deeply moving. The act of pulling these chariots isn’t just ceremonial; it’s believed to be a blessing. Many say it brings good fortune, purifies the soul, and even helps one break free from the cycle of rebirth. For the devotees, every tug of the thick rope is an offering of love, a silent prayer whispered through the hands.

A Journey to Aunt’s House

There is a beautiful legend behind this divine journey. It is said that once every year, Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings, visits the Gundicha Temple, considered to be the home of his aunt Queen Gundicha. The journey symbolises warmth, nostalgia and a familial bond that even gods seem to cherish. For nine days, the deities remain at Gundicha Ghar, where they are offered special rituals, home-cooked food and rest. For devotees, this temporary shift of the divine presence is a chance to feel closer to the gods, as if they’ve arrived in their neighbourhood, bringing grace right to their doorsteps.

Royal Humility at Its Finest

In a world where royalty often stands apart from the common people, Rath Yatra humbles even kings. One of the most symbolic moments of the festival is when the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri the traditional ruler of the region performs Chhera Pahara. Dressed in simple white and barefoot, he sweeps the platforms of the chariots with a golden broom, signalling that no one, not even a king, is above the Lord. This act of devotion and humility is met with awe and respect from the crowd, a reminder that in matters of faith, we are all equal.

What to Do If You’re There

If you’re in Puri during Rath Yatra, you’re part of something extraordinary. Begin your day early and find a spot along the Grand Road before the procession begins. As the chariots roll by, you’ll feel a rush of energy unlike anything else. Locals offer water, fruits and a friendly smile to strangers; the town becomes one big extended family. Beyond the Yatra, there’s much to explore. Take time to admire the majestic Jagannath Temple from the outside, where the daily changing of the flag atop the spire is a breathtaking ritual. Visit Raghurajpur, the heritage crafts village where artists paint vivid Pattachitra stories on cloth. And of course, take a quiet walk along Puri’s Golden Beach, which wears the Blue Flag certification with pride.

A Taste of Divinity

No journey to Rath Yatra is complete without tasting the famed Mahaprasad. Cooked in temple kitchens that follow centuries-old methods, this sacred food is offered to the deities first, then shared with devotees. One must try the delicious Poda Pitha, a caramelised rice cake traditionally prepared during this time. Head to Mausi Maa Temple to sample this special treat and feel part of an old, sweet tradition that connects hearts through taste and faith. It’s a reminder that devotion can be tasted as well as felt.

Planning Your Trip

The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 60 km away. Taxis, trains and buses are easily available to reach Puri. Due to the festival, the city has several traffic restrictions in place to manage the large crowds safely. Key stretches of road like the Grand Road and nearby temple areas have been marked as vehicle-free zones, so travellers are advised to plan routes ahead of time and follow police advisories.

More Than Just a Festival

To call Rath Yatra a festival feels limiting. It is a living tradition that celebrates love, humility, belief and belonging. Whether you're a devoted follower of Lord Jagannath or someone simply seeking a deeper experience of India’s spiritual soul, Rath Yatra welcomes you with open arms. And as you stand among thousands, watching the chariots roll forward with chants echoing into the sky, you’ll realise, this isn’t just a celebration. It’s a moment of connection. Between you and the divine. Between strangers and stories. Between the ancient and the now.

Because in Puri, during Rath Yatra, you don’t just watch history. You become a part of it!