The sacred and colorful Rath Yatra 2025 celebrations is all set to bring waves of devotion and joy across India and the world. Known as the Chariot Festival of Lord Jagannath, this ancient Hindu festival is celebrated with unmatched enthusiasm in Puri, Odisha, where millions of devotees come together to pull the divine chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra.
Let’s explore the important dates, timings, rituals, and worldwide celebrations of this grand festival.
🗓️ Rath Yatra 2025 Date and Auspicious Timings
The Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 will take place on Friday, June 27, 2025, in Puri, which is the main and most significant celebration of the festival.
According to the Hindu calendar, the festival is held on the Dwitiya Tithi (second day) during the Shukla Paksha of Ashadha month.
🕑 Timings (According to Drik Panchang):
Dwitiya Tithi Begins: 1:24 PM on June 26, 2025
Dwitiya Tithi Ends: 11:19 AM on June 27, 2025
These timings mark the spiritually important window when Lord Jagannath and his divine siblings embark on their annual journey to Gundicha Temple.
🛕 The Significance of Jagannath Rath Yatra
The Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath is one of the oldest and most celebrated festivals in India. It marks the ceremonial journey of the deities from their main temple to their aunt’s temple—Gundicha Temple, about 3 kilometers away.
As per the Skanda Purana, this sacred event signifies Lord Jagannath’s promise to visit his devotees once a year outside the temple. This makes the event accessible to everyone—regardless of caste, creed, or nationality.
Millions of devotees gather to pull the grand wooden chariots with thick ropes, believing it brings spiritual merit and blessings.
🔔 Key Rituals and Dates for Puri Rath Yatra 2025
The Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 isn’t just a one-day event—it includes several rituals that span over nine days, each with great religious and cultural importance.
📅 Important Events:
Anavasara (Lord’s Resting Period): June 13 to June 26, 2025
During this time, the deities are said to fall ill after the grand Snana Yatra and rest inside the temple, away from public view.Gundicha Marjana (Temple Cleaning): June 26, 2025
The Gundicha Temple is cleaned and decorated in preparation for the deities’ arrival.Rath Yatra (Main Procession Day): June 27, 2025
The majestic chariots are pulled through the streets of Puri, watched by lakhs of devotees.Hera Panchami: July 1, 2025
This marks the symbolic search for Lord Jagannath by Goddess Lakshmi.Bahuda Yatra (Return Journey): July 4, 2025
The deities begin their return to the main Jagannath Temple.Suna Besha (Golden Attire): July 5, 2025
The deities are dressed in golden ornaments, creating a divine spectacle.Niladri Bijay (Return to Sanctum): July 5, 2025
The deities return to their original abode, marking the end of the festival.
🌍 ISKCON and Global Celebrations of Rath Yatra 2025
The influence of Rath Yatra has grown globally, thanks to the efforts of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). These celebrations allow devotees worldwide to participate in the divine festivities, even if they cannot travel to Puri.
📍 ISKCON Prayagraj Rath Yatra 2025:
Date: Sunday, June 29, 2025
Start Time: 4:00 PM
Route: Hira Halwai Crossing → Subhash Chauraha → Hanuman Mandir → KP Ground
ISKCON chose Sunday to allow maximum participation. These celebrations include kirtans, bhajans, and the pulling of Lord Jagannath’s chariot with thousands of local devotees.
🌐 Global Celebrations:
From London to New York, and Scotland to South Africa, Rath Yatra processions are organized by Indian communities and ISKCON temples. In Scotland, for instance, the Indian Embassy highlighted the spiritual and cultural significance of Rath Yatra, showcasing India’s global cultural reach.
🙏 Spiritual Importance of Participating in Rath Yatra
Participating in Rath Yatra 2025, whether in Puri or elsewhere, is believed to be highly auspicious. Devotees believe that even touching the ropes of the chariots or seeing the deities during the yatra can wash away sins and bring divine blessings.
The chanting of “Jai Jagannath!”, the sound of conch shells, and the beating of traditional drums create a spiritual atmosphere like no other. This festival beautifully blends faith, devotion, tradition, music, and community participation.
📸 Travel Tips for Puri Rath Yatra Visitors
If you plan to visit Puri during Rath Yatra 2025, here are a few tips:
Book accommodations early, as hotels fill up months in advance.
Be prepared for large crowds; safety and hydration are key.
Respect local customs and follow the instructions of temple and local authorities.
Don’t miss the Ananda Bazaar, the world’s largest food market near the temple.
🎉 Conclusion: A Celebration of Faith and Unity
Rath Yatra 2025 is more than just a festival—it’s a moving temple on wheels, a divine journey that unites people of all backgrounds in devotion. Whether you witness it in Puri, Prayagraj, or Scotland, the Jagannath Rath Yatra offers a unique spiritual experience that touches the heart and soul.
So mark your calendars for June 27, 2025, and get ready to chant “Jai Jagannath” with millions around the world.