Capital city soaks in community spirit

Time of India

16 hours ago

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Bhubaneswar: The capital city turned into a canvas of colour and devotion on Friday as thousands of devotees thronged the streets to witness Rath Yatra celebrations. Over 50 large and small chariots carrying the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra were pulled through different parts of the city, accompanied by chants of 'Jai Jagannath'.
The air reverberated with sounds of devotional music as people from all walks of life joined hands to pull the intricately decorated wooden chariots. Dressed in traditional attire, devotees danced to the rhythms of Odisha's folk instruments, while cultural troupes performed 'gotipua', 'ghoda nacha' and tribal dances along the city roads.
"Rath Yatra is an expression of Odisha's religious belief and heritage. Everyone soaks in the love for the deities.
Seeing the gods coming out of the temple and journeying among the people is an emotional moment for all of us," said Raghunath Nanda, secretary of Baramunda temple managing committee.
With weather staying pleasant despite an overcast sky, hundreds of devotees took part in the festival. In localities like Nayapalli, Sailashree Vihar, Patia, VSS Nagar, Rental Colony, Jagamara, Kolathia, Delta Square, Old Town, Rasulgarh, and GGP Colony, community-led Rath Yatras showcased the rich cultural tapestry of Odisha, each adding its unique flavour to the celebrations.
Saraswati Pradhan, a schoolteacher from Pathargadia, brought her two children along to witness the yatra at the Jagannath Temple in KISS campus. "This is the best way to ensure the younger generation connects with our traditions. Children are very excited to be a part of the divine moment and feel its pulse. Women pulled the chariot of Devi Subhadra here, and we feel so blessed," Pradhan said.
Children at Bada Danda Sahi in Badhei Banka pulled the tiny idols on their beautifully decorated chariot following the rituals of Jagannath Temple in Puri.
Security was tight across the city, with traffic diversions in place and emergency services deployed to ensure the smooth conduct of Rath Yatra. "We made elaborate arrangements in coordination with local organisers to ensure devotees could participate safely. Traffic movement was arranged accordingly for the smooth passage of chariots and vehicles in various localities," said a senior police officer.
BMC made elaborate arrangements for cleanliness and sanitation and also conducted raids at food stalls to ensure adulterated food is not being sold.