Lakhs of Devotees Throng Puri for Annual Rath Yatra Festival
Lakhs of devotees have gathered in Puri, Odisha, for the annual Rath Yatra festival of Lord Jagannath. The nine-day sojourn of the deities to the Gundicha Temple began with elaborate rituals amid massive crowds. Authorities have deployed approximately 10,000 security personnel, including NSG snipers, and established an integrated command center with over 275 AI-enabled CCTV cameras to ensure safety. The event remains one of India's largest and most significant religious and cultural gatherings.
Unpacked:
The Rath Yatra in Puri honors Lord Jagannath, a form of Krishna or Vishnu. Its origins trace back centuries, symbolizing the deities' annual journey to the Gundicha Temple. The festival is rooted in ancient Hindu traditions and is linked to legends about Lord Krishna’s connections with his devotees and his mother’s birthplace.
The festival begins with the ceremonial procession of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra in massive chariots from the main temple to the Gundicha Temple. Rituals include elaborate pujas, chariot pulling by devotees, and cultural performances. After a stay at Gundicha Temple, the deities return to the main temple in a return journey called Bahuda Yatra.
Authorities deploy around 10,000 security personnel, including specialized units like NSG snipers. They establish an integrated command center, monitor crowds with over 275 AI-enabled CCTV cameras, and enforce crowd control measures to manage the lakhs of attendees and ensure safety throughout the festival period.
The Puri Rath Yatra attracts millions of devotees from across India and abroad, making it one of the largest annual religious events. Its deep cultural and spiritual significance, historical continuity, and massive public participation underscore its status as a major Hindu festival and a symbol of India’s religious diversity.