Bhubaneswar, 16 July (H.S.): The sacred rituals of the world-renowned Rath Yatra 2026 commenced at the Shree Jagannath Temple (Srimandir) on Thursday, with thousands of devotees gathering to witness the divine journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra to the Gundicha Temple.

The festival began in accordance with age-old traditions, with a series of rituals performed inside the temple before the chariots set out for their ceremonial journey. The morning rituals included the Dhupa ceremony at the Bhoga Mandap, followed by preparations of the deities and their respective chariots.

The highlight of the day, the Pahandi procession, marks the ceremonial خروج of the Holy Trinity from the sanctum sanctorum. Amid devotional chants and the rhythmic sounds of traditional instruments, the deities are carried in a grand procession and placed on their respective chariots — Nandighosa of Lord Jagannath, Taladhwaja of Lord Balabhadra, and Darpadalana of Devi Subhadra.

Following the Pahandi ritual, the revered Chhera Pahanra ceremony will be performed by the Gajapati Maharaja. In this ritual, the king symbolically sweeps the chariots with a golden broom, signifying humility and devotion before the Lord.

After the completion of all rituals, the three majestic chariots will be readied for their journey from Srimandir to the Gundicha Temple. Lakhs of devotees are expected to throng Puri to witness the grand spectacle and seek divine blessings during this iconic festival.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda