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Grand Rath Yatra Taken Out Amid Traditional Devotion, Faith, and Festivity
Lord Jagannath, Brother Balabhadra, and Sister Subhadra Travel from Jagannath Temple Dokra to Mausibari; Grand Return on 9th Day
Raipur, 27 June 2025 – The grand Rath Yatra festival was celebrated with traditional devotion, religious fervor, and splendor at the historic and ancient Shri Jagannath Temple in Dokra, Jashpur district. Before the chariots set off, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai and his wife Smt. Kaushalya Devi Sai offered prayers to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra in the temple, performing rituals and praying for the happiness, prosperity, and well-being of the people of the state. The Chief Minister also performed the traditional ‘Chera-Pahara’ ritual, ceremonially sweeping the path in front of the chariots.
Thousands of devotees participated in the Rath Yatra with deep devotion. Devotees pulled the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra with ropes as chants of “Jai Jagannath”, devotional songs, and kirtans filled the air with spiritual energy. The procession passed through major roads and reached Mausibari, where the deities will stay for nine days. On the ninth day, July 5, the grand return to Shri Jagannath Temple in Dokra will take place. This tradition is followed in line with the famous Rath Yatra of Puri, Odisha.
Rath Yatra Tradition in Dokra Since 1942
The Rath Yatra tradition in Dokra began in the year 1942, initiated by the late Shri Sudarshan Satpathy and his wife, the late Smt. Sushila Satpathy, with immense devotion and dedication. Since then, this sacred tradition has continued uninterrupted with great enthusiasm and reverence. Over time, the event has evolved into a grand religious fair with massive participation from devotees.
Devotional Performances and Cultural Showcases
On the auspicious occasion, devotional music groups from Odisha presented captivating spiritual performances, filling the atmosphere with divine energy. Various religious and cultural tableaux also joined the procession, beautifully showcasing the glory of Lord Jagannath and the grandeur of India’s cultural diversity.
Nine-Day Religious Festival
According to the members of the Shri Jagannath Temple Committee, Dokra, the Rath Yatra is celebrated as a nine-day grand religious and cultural festival. The temple complex and the entire village of Dokra are immersed in an aura of devotion and joy. Throughout the festival, various religious rituals, bhajans, kirtans, musical performances, and cultural programs are organized. Additionally, several competitions are held for children and youth, infusing the entire region with spiritual and cultural vibrancy.
A grand fair has also been set up in Dokra to mark the occasion, enhancing the festive spirit. The fair features amusement rides, food stalls, traditional handicraft shops, and many attractions, offering joy and entertainment for all. This event is a beautiful confluence of faith, culture, and social harmony.
