The rhythmic clang of gongs and the chant of Jai Jagannath echoed once more through Puri’s Grand Road on Saturday morning, as thousands of devotees resumed the pulling of the majestic chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra towards the Gundicha temple.
The annual Rath Yatra had been brought to an unscheduled halt on Friday evening when the Taladwaja chariot of Lord Balabhadra became stuck while negotiating a sharp turn, preventing the Nandighosha and Darpadalana chariots from advancing.
Despite the delay, the atmosphere remained spiritually charged through the night. The deities, still housed within the chariots, remained stationed along the Grand Road under tight security, as pilgrims waited patiently, undeterred by the interruption.
Rituals resumed early on Saturday morning and by 10 am, the ceremonial pulling of the chariots recommenced. Devotees—many of whom had spent the night in the holy town, thronged the Grand Road in vast numbers, surging forward in devotion, their chants blending with the sounds of conches and traditional instruments.
The chariots are now progressing towards the Gundicha temple, the traditional destination of the deities, which lies around 2.6 kilometres from the Jagannath temple.
Also read: Over 600 injured in Puri as crowd surges during Rath Yatra
Officials estimate that over one million devotees have gathered in Puri to witness and participate in the revered festival, which is being held under unprecedented security cover.
Director General of Police Y B Khurania said, “The police have made all arrangements for the smooth conduct of Rath Yatra,” noting that around 10,000 personnel, including members of the Odisha Police, Central Armed Police Forces, and the National Security Guard, have been deployed. Over 275 artificial intelligence-enabled CCTV cameras have been installed to monitor the crowd and ensure safety.
The mammoth gathering, combined with hot and humid weather, has led to a significant number of health emergencies. More than 600 people were treated at different hospitals in the city, with over 200 collapsing due to heat exhaustion and others suffering minor injuries from jostling in the crowd, officials said.
Yet, faith remained the overriding force. Pilgrims believe that the mere act of touching the chariots brings the compassion and blessings of Lord Jagannath.
The annual Rath Yatra is a centuries-old celebration that symbolises the journey of the deities to their aunt’s abode. Despite Friday’s hindrance, the spirit of the faithful remained unwavering.
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