Jagannath Rath Yatra 2024 LIVE: Two-Day Celebrations in Puri

The revered Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, commences today, marking a unique two-day celebration due to specific celestial alignments. President Droupadi Murmu, alongside millions of devotees from across India, is expected to attend this significant event.

The Odisha government has ensured elaborate arrangements for the smooth execution of the festival, with special security measures in place for the President’s visit. According to ADG (law and order) Sanjay Kumar, a VIP zone has been designated for dignitaries, including the Odisha governor, chief minister, and Union ministers, while a separate buffer zone is allocated for the President.

Typically a one-day event, the last time the Rath Yatra extended over two days was in 1971. This festival, also known as the Chariot Festival, involves rituals honoring Lord Jagannath, Devi Subhadra, and Lord Balabhadra. The Yatra signifies the Holy Trinity’s journey to their maternal aunt, Goddess Gundicha Devi’s Temple, with the return journey concluding after eight days.

The chariots, stationed at the Lion’s Gate of the Jagannath temple, will be transported to the Gundicha temple where they will remain for a week, preceding the grand procession.