PURI, INDIA, July 16, 2026 (Asia Net News): Hundreds of thousands of devotees thronged the holy city of Puri on Thursday as the world-famous annual 149th Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra commenced amid elaborate security arrangements, while celebrations were held with equal fervor across several Indian states and in Bangladesh. The three majestic chariots, Nandighosha of Lord Jagannath, Taladhwaja of Lord Balabhadra and Darpadalana of Goddess Subhadra, were placed at the Singhadwara (Lion’s Gate) of the Jagannath Temple before the ceremonial procession began. The annual festival drew devotees from across India and abroad, with authorities deploying an extensive security network to manage the massive crowds.

Speaking on the spiritual significance of the Rath Yatra, Shankaracharya of Puri Govardhana Peetha, Swami Sri Nischalananda Saraswati, said, “It is a shower of love. A shower of meditation.” BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh, who attended the Rath Yatra with his mother, described the atmosphere in Puri as extraordinary. He said, “More than 2.5 million devotees from across the globe have gathered here. The streets, markets, and roads are packed with people eager to catch a glimpse of Lord Jagannath and touch His chariot. Despite the massive turnout, the arrangements are excellent. I, too, have come here as a devotee with my mother to seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath.” The annual Rath Yatra remains one of India’s largest religious congregations, symbolizing faith, devotion and inclusivity as millions of devotees gather to pull the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra in a centuries-old tradition celebrated across India and beyond.

More on how the Rath Yatra was celebrated across the country at source.
https://newsable.asianetnews.com/india/puri-rath-yatra-lakhs-throng-holy-city-for-149th-annual-festival-articleshow-v6hqcia

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