- Two-day event: For the first time in 53 years, the Jagannath Yatra will be a two-day celebration.
- Celestial rarity: The shortened ‘Anasara’ period allows for double chariot pulling.
- Presidential presence: President Droupadi Murmu is expected to participate in the festivities.
The Jagannath Yatra in Odisha will be celebrated as a special two-day event for the first time in 53 years due to a unique celestial alignment. The deities’ usual 15-day ‘Anasara’ rest period is shortened to 13 days this year, allowing devotees to pull the chariots twice.
To mark this event, Odisha’s Chief Minister, Mohan Charan Majhi, has declared a public holiday on July 7 and 8, enabling people to fully engage in the festivities. The announcement followed a high-level meeting focused on organizing the event.
Historic Two-Day Jagannath Yatra Set for Odisha
This year’s Jagannath Yatra in Odisha is set to be a grand two-day celebration, a rare event made possible by a unique celestial arrangement. The reduced ‘Anasara’ period from 15 to 13 days allows for the chariots to be pulled twice, an event that last occurred in 1971. This unusual timing has created immense excitement among devotees.
In addition to the local celebrations, the presence of President Droupadi Murmu is expected to add a national dimension to the event. She is anticipated to arrive in Puri on July 6 and participate in the chariot-pulling ceremony on July 7, underscoring the festival’s importance.
The Jagannath Yatra is not just a religious event but a significant cultural phenomenon for Odisha. This year’s unique circumstances provide an exceptional opportunity for devotees and tourists alike to witness and participate in a once-in-a-lifetime event, reinforcing the state’s rich heritage and traditions.
This year’s Jagannath Yatra, marked by a rare celestial event and prominent participation, promises to be a historic and joyous occasion for Odisha, drawing devotees and dignitaries alike to celebrate this unique moment in the state’s cultural history.
“After 53 years, devotees will have the opportunity to pull the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Devi Subhadra, and Lord Balabhadra twice during the Rath Yatra.”
