President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday extended her wishes on the occasion of Jagannath Rath Yatra to the citizens of India.
In an X post, she wrote, “On the occasion of the world famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all the countrymen. Today, countless Jagannath lovers from all over the country and the world are eagerly waiting to see the three forms of Bhagavat seated on the chariot. On the occasion of this great festival, I pray to Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath for everyone's happiness, peace and prosperity.”
Murmu also visited Puri to witness the Rath Yatra on Sunday, with special arrangements made for her arrival. The Odisha government has made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the festival, according to PTI.
Lord Jagannath's annual Rath Yatra festival is a two-day affair this time after 53 years, the report said.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also greeted people on the occasion.
"Greetings on the start of the sacred Rath Yatra. We bow to Mahaprabhu Jagannath and pray that His blessings constantly remain upon us," Modi said in a post on X.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, who visited Puri on the occasion, said he was delighted. “I got the opportunity to offer my blessings to Shankaracharya of Govardhan Peeth. I am delighted..." he told ANI.
The ceremonial 'Pahandi' ritual of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra started around 11 am. As the sounds of cymbals and conches reverberated in the air, Lord Sudarshan was first to be escorted to Darpadalan, the chariot of Devi Subhadra.
Lord Sudharshan was then taken on his Taladhwaja chariot. Goddess Subhadra, the sister of Lord Jagannath and Lord Balabhadra, was brought to her Darpadalan chariot in a special procession.
Lakhs of devotees thronged Puri to witness the annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath and his siblings.