New Delhi, 16 July (H.S.): President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and several other national leaders extended their heartfelt greetings to the people of the country on the auspicious occasion of Lord Jagannath's annual Rath Yatra.

In a post on X, President Murmu said, On the sacred occasion of Mahaprabhu Jagannath's Rath Yatra, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all devotees of Lord Jagannath in India and across the world. It is believed that during this revered procession, Mahaprabhu Jagannath, accompanied by Chakraraj Sudarshan, his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, comes out to meet his devotees. This divine union between the Lord and his devotees is truly unparalleled. I pray that the blessings of Mahaprabhu Jagannath continue to enhance the happiness and prosperity of our nation and its people. Jai Jagannath!

Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan said that the sacred Rath Yatra embodies the values of faith, devotion, equality and communal harmony, bringing people together beyond all differences. He described the festival as a vibrant celebration of India's rich cultural heritage and enduring spiritual traditions. He prayed that the divine blessings of Lord Jagannath inspire everyone to walk the path of truth and righteousness, strengthen the nation's collective resolve and promote peace and unity across the country.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said that Lord Jagannath's Rath Yatra is a divine celebration of India's timeless civilisational consciousness, where faith, spirituality and public welfare converge. He said the festival is not only a grand expression of devotion but also a living symbol of the country's eternal cultural traditions, which have inspired faith, harmony, service and spiritual awareness among people for generations. Birla added that the sacred tradition reminds society that the essence of life lies in following the path of righteousness, duty, humility and selfless dedication, while true spiritual pursuit is reflected in serving society and the nation.

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah said the world-renowned Jagannath Rath Yatra is a symbol of unwavering faith, trust and devotion. He prayed to Lord Jagannath for the happiness, prosperity and well-being of all.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari expressed hope that the sacred festival would bring peace, prosperity and happiness into everyone's lives.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh prayed that the blessings of Lord Jagannath fill people's lives with happiness, peace, prosperity and positive energy, concluding his message with Jai Jagannath.

Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said the Rath Yatra vividly reflects the vitality of India's eternal culture, folk traditions and social harmony. He prayed that the blessings of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra bring happiness, prosperity and auspiciousness to everyone while preserving and enriching India's cultural heritage.

Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh also extended his greetings, expressing hope that the divine procession of Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra would spread happiness, peace, prosperity and harmony across the country.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar