Jagannath Rath Yatra: President Murmu prays for nation's prosperity; PM Modi says Yatra embodies humility, selfless service

New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday extended greetings to devotees in India and across the world on the auspicious occasion of Mahaprabhu Jagannath Rath Yatra, saying that the soulful occasion marked the union of the devotee and the Divine is "truly unique."

In a post on X ahead of the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra that commences today, President Murmu highlighted the festival's spiritual, cultural and unifying significance and prayed for the happiness and prosperity of the country and its people to continue to flourish.

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"On the auspicious occasion of Mahaprabhu's Rath Yatra, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all devotees of Shri Jagannath across the country and abroad. It is a widely held belief that during the magnificent tradition of this sacred procession, Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath-accompanied by Chakraraj Sudarshan, elder brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra-comes out to meet the devotees. This soulful occasion, marking the union of the devotee and the Divine, is truly unique," the President of India's official wrote.

The President expressed hope for the country's continued progress and well-being. "I pray that, by the grace of Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath, the happiness and prosperity of our country and its people continue to flourish. Jai Jagannath!" she added.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also greeted people on the occasion, describing the Rath Yatra as a symbol of India's enduring spiritual and cultural legacy.

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"Greetings to everyone on the sacred occasion of Rath Yatra. This is a radiant expression of India's timeless spiritual and cultural heritage. The traditions associated with the Rath Yatra have inspired generations across India and the world. They embody humility, collective participation and selfless service," PM Modi wrote on X.

The Prime Minister prayed for the well-being and prosperity of all. "May Mahaprabhu Jagannath bless everyone with good health, happiness and prosperity. May He give us strength for all our endeavours and deepen the spirit of togetherness in our society. Jai Jagannath!" he added.

Meanwhile, in Puri, the three sacred chariots are set to be brought from the Rathakhala to the front of the Jagannath Temple today following traditional rituals.

The chariots - Nandighosha of Lord Jagannath, Taladhwaja of Lord Balabhadra and Darpadalana of Devi Subhadra - will be moved after the Agyan Mala Bije ritual, marking the final preparations before the commencement of the yatra on Thursday.

The Jagannath Rath Yatra, one of Hinduism's most significant festivals, draws lakhs of devotees every year, with elaborate security and logistical arrangements put in place across states to ensure its smooth and peaceful conduct.