Vizag Joins in Rath Yatra Festivity as Lord Jagannath Begins Nine‑Day Sojourn
Landlocked Vizag mirrors Puri’s spiritual fervour as Lord Jagannath, along with Balabhadra and Subhadra, embarks on the nine-day annual Rath Yatra. Thousands chant “Jai Jagannath” and pull the chariots in a grand devotional celebration
image for illustrative purpose
The city of Visakhapatnam (Vizag) witnessed a spiritual spectacle as Lord Jagannath, accompanied by Balabhadra and Subhadra, began their nine-day journey to the Gundicha Temple. The procession kicked off on June 27 with chanting of “Jai Jagannath” and rhythmic bells echoing through the crowds.
The idols were ceremoniously taken from their sanctum, the Ratna Vedi, and placed on their grand chariots—Taladhwaja, Darpadalana, and Nandighosha—amidst tight security and devotional fervour. Thousands lined the Bada Danda, pulling the chariots while priests performed traditional rituals such as Pahandi Bije and Chera Panhara.
The Rath Yatra, deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and scriptures like the Skanda Purana, symbolizes the annual pilgrimage of Lord Krishna in his Jagannath form. Notably, the festival transcended Odisha—devotees in Vizag joined in the chariot pulling, marking a growing pan-Indian celebration.
Leading dignitaries, including President Droupadi Murmu, PM Narendra Modi, Union ministers, and various state leaders, extended their greetings, highlighting the festival’s cultural unity and spiritual significance.
To manage the massive outpouring, authorities deployed over 10,000 security personnel—including BSF, CRPF, RAF, NSG, and antidrone units—along with dozens of CCTV cameras, drone jammers, medical aid points, and designated parking and traffic routes along the 3 km route.
The nine-day Rath Yatra will culminate in the Bahuda Yatra, the return procession, bringing the deities back to the main temple.
