The Shree Jagannath Temple Chhattisa Nijog, in a recent meeting held at Niladri Bhakta Niwas, has confirmed the rituals and schedule for the upcoming annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra.
This year, the festivities of Netra Utsav, Naba Jouban Darshan, and Rath Yatra coincide, echoing a unique alignment last observed in 1971. Accordingly, the schedule for this year’s Rath Yatra will mirror that historic occasion. The Gundicha Yatra, marking the initial leg of the Rath Yatra, is set to commence on July 7.
The day will see the Pahandi of the deities starting at 1:10 PM, followed by the commencement of chariot pulling at 5:00 PM on Gundicha Yatra day (July 7).
Gourahari Pradhan, a member of the Chhattisa Nijog, highlighted, “The decision to synchronize this year’s rituals with those of 1971 stems from the simultaneous occurrence of Naba Jouban Darshan and chariot pulling on Gundicha Yatra day. Adequate arrangements have been put in place to ensure the smooth conduct of chariot pulling at 5:00 PM.”
Vir Vikram Yadav, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), affirmed the temple’s commitment to ensuring a memorable Rath Yatra. “Today’s meeting focused on the detailed planning and arrangements for Mahaprabhu’s Rath Yatra. Our goal is to enrich the experience for devotees and seek the blessings of Mahaprabhu,” Yadav expressed.
With meticulous planning and adherence to tradition, the Shree Jagannath Temple gears up to welcome devotees for a joyous celebration during Mahaprabhu’s Rath Yatra this year.