On the sacred occasion of Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt greetings to the people of India and devotees around the world. The Prime Minister took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to share his message of devotion, celebration, and national unity inspired by this historic and deeply spiritual festival.

In his post, Prime Minister Modi wrote,

The Rath Yatra, also known as the Festival of Chariots, is a significant and centuries-old tradition primarily celebrated in Puri, Odisha. It marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings—Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra—from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. The magnificent procession showcases giant, beautifully adorned wooden chariots, drawn by thousands of devoted followers amid sacred chants and an atmosphere filled with deep spiritual energy. It is a time when faith unites all, bringing joy, prosperity, blessings, and good health into everyone’s lives. Jai Jagannath!

Every year, this vibrant festival draws millions of pilgrims, devotees, and tourists from across India and abroad. It is not only a spectacle of religious devotion but also a rich expression of India’s cultural heritage and community spirit.

The Prime Minister’s message underlines the festival’s enduring relevance as a beacon of unity, spiritual growth, and shared joy. In past years, Shri Modi has repeatedly highlighted the Rath Yatra’s symbolic power to bring people together, regardless of caste, creed, or region, under the banner of shared faith and heritage.

This year’s Rath Yatra holds special importance as it comes during a time when India continues to stride forward with economic resilience and cultural pride. The Prime Minister’s greetings serve as a reminder of the deep spiritual and moral roots that sustain the nation through its challenges and triumphs.

As temples across the country join Puri in celebrating this sacred occasion, prayers and chants of “Jai Jagannath” echo through homes and streets, reflecting a timeless devotion that continues to inspire millions.

For many, the Rath Yatra is not just a festival—it’s a journey of the soul, a reminder of the divine presence in everyday life, and a call to live with humility, service, and joy.