PM Modi extends greetings on Rath Yatra.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his best wishes to the people of the country and devotees across the globe on the auspicious occasion of Lord Jagannath’s world-famous Rath Yatra on Thursday. Describing this historic and religious festival as a magnificent expression of India’s centuries-old spiritual and cultural heritage, he wished for happiness, peace, prosperity, and good health for everyone.
In a message shared on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister stated that the Rath Yatra is not merely a religious event but a symbol of Indian culture, faith, and social unity. He noted that the traditions associated with this festival have inspired millions of people not only in India but across the world, and they continue to convey a message of service, dedication, and cooperation to humanity.
In his message, Prime Minister Modi wrote, “Greetings to everyone on the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra. It is a magnificent expression of India’s centuries-old spiritual and cultural heritage. The traditions associated with Rath Yatra have inspired generations across India and the world. These traditions symbolize humility, collective participation, and selfless service. May the blessings of Lord Jagannath remain with everyone, and may peace, prosperity, and good health fill everyone’s lives.”
The Prime Minister’s message received a widespread response on social media. A large number of people shared his post, expressing their reverence for Lord Jagannath and extending their own wishes for the Rath Yatra. Various political leaders, social organizations, and religious institutions also conveyed their greetings to the nation on this occasion.
Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra is considered one of India’s oldest and grandest religious events. Held in Puri, Odisha, the procession begins every year on the second day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of the Ashadha month. During this event, Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra, and his sister Devi Subhadra travel from the Shrimandir (main temple) to the Gundicha Temple aboard magnificent chariots. Hundreds of thousands of devotees from India and abroad participate in this divine event, eager for the privilege of pulling the Lord’s chariots.
A defining feature of the Rath Yatra is that it transcends all distinctions of caste, religion, class, and region. People from all walks of life come together to pull the Lord’s chariot, conveying a message of social harmony and equality. This is precisely why Prime Minister Modi, in his message, specifically highlighted values such as humility, collective participation, and selfless service.
According to religious beliefs, the Rath Yatra symbolizes Lord Jagannath’s journey to His aunt’s abode, the Gundicha Temple. The Lord resides there for nine days before returning to the Shrimandir via the ‘Bahuda Yatra’ (return journey). Every year, lakhs of devotees flock to Puri to witness this grand procession and seek the Lord’s blessings.
This year, too, immense enthusiasm was evident among the devotees regarding the Rath Yatra. Elaborate security arrangements have been put in place in Puri. The administration has strengthened crowd management, traffic arrangements, medical services, and other facilities to ensure that devotees face no inconvenience. The state government and the Shri Jagannath Temple Administration have made special preparations to ensure the procession concludes peacefully and in an organized manner.
The Rath Yatra is not limited to Odisha alone; processions of Lord Jagannath are organized in many states across the country and even abroad. Devotees celebrate this festival with great fervor in numerous cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. Additionally, the Rath Yatra is organized by the Indian diaspora and various religious organizations in countries such as the USA, the UK, Canada, and Australia.
Experts believe that the Rath Yatra symbolizes the vibrant traditions of Indian culture, which have expanded in scope over time. This event transcends mere religious faith; it strengthens social harmony, cultural unity, and human values.
Highlighting this very sentiment in his message, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed the hope that the grace of Lord Jagannath brings happiness, peace, prosperity, and good health to everyone’s lives. His message underscores not only the spiritual significance of the Rath Yatra but also the rich tradition of Indian culture that inspires people to connect with one another, fosters a spirit of service, and promotes harmony within society. For devotees of Lord Jagannath across the country and the world, Rath Yatra is not merely a festival but a grand celebration of faith, belief, and cultural unity. The Prime Minister’s message of good wishes is seen as further strengthening this sentiment.
