The centuries-old divine spectacle of Rath Yatra 2025 kicked off in Puri today with the dramatic ‘Pahandi’ ritual, as Lord Jagannath, along with Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, made their grand exit from the sanctum of the Jagannath Temple. The ritual, marked by rhythmic chants of “Jai Jagannath,” saw servitors ceremoniously carry the deities to their towering chariots - Nandighosha, Taladhwaja, and Darpadalan - parked outside the temple gates.

Lakhs of devotees, both from India and abroad, flooded Puri to witness this rare spiritual event that only happens once a year. Elaborate security arrangements - including over 10,000 personnel, AI surveillance, and a drone ban - have turned the town into a high-alert zone.

The Chhera Pahanra ritual by the Gajapati King is next, followed by the much-awaited rolling of the chariots toward the Gundicha Temple. With eyes teary and hearts full, devotees chant in unison, witnessing what many call a moving god on wheels.