Rath Yatra 2025: Puri Welcomes the Divine Journey of Lord Jagannath and Siblings | Dates, Route, and Key Highlights

The sacred city of Puri is all set for one of the most anticipated Hindu festivals of the year — Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025, also known as the Chariot Festival or Shree Gundicha Yatra. Celebrated with unmatched devotion and grandeur, this annual event marks the ceremonial journey of Lord Jagannath, accompanied by his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, to the Gundicha Temple.

When is Rath Yatra 2025?

According to the Drik Panchang, the Rath Yatra falls today, Friday, June 27, 2025, which corresponds to the second day (Dwitiya) of Shukla Paksha in the Ashadha month of the Hindu calendar.

Spiritual Significance and Tradition

Rooted in scriptures such as the Skanda Purana, this divine procession symbolizes Lord Jagannath’s annual visit to his aunt’s temple — Gundicha Mandir — located just 3 km from the main Jagannath Temple. It is believed that Lord Jagannath, the Supreme Lord of the Universe, undertakes this journey to bless all devotees, fulfilling his cosmic promise.

Massive Devotee Turnout Expected

As the festival begins, millions of devotees have already gathered in Puri to witness this awe-inspiring spectacle. The Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, becomes the focal point of festivities. The three grand chariots — Nandighosa (Jagannath), Taladhwaja (Balabhadra), and Darpadalana (Subhadra) — are ceremoniously pulled through the streets of Puri amid chants, music, and spiritual fervor.

Security and Crowd Management

Local authorities, led by District Magistrate Siddharth Swain and Superintendent of Police Vineet Agarwal, have implemented stringent security measures.

“The three chariots have been stationed at their designated starting points. We’ve ensured elaborate arrangements, including the deployment of NSG units,” said DM Swain.

SP Vineet Agarwal added:

“Police teams are fully prepared for crowd control, traffic management, and surveillance. Anti-drone squads have neutralized three unauthorized drones today. Only registered drone activity is permitted during the event.”

Rath Yatra 2025: Key Dates to Remember

 ISKCON Rath Yatra in Prayagraj

The ISKCON community in Prayagraj will celebrate their Rath Yatra on Sunday, June 29, 2025. The vibrant procession will start at 4:00 PM from Hira Halwai Crossing and conclude at KP Ground, with devotees chanting and dancing in spiritual joy.