The Jagannath Rath Yatra has officially started, and the grand festivities have begun in Puri, Odisha, with performances, rituals, prayers and more. It is considered one of the biggest festivals in India. And if you can’t attend, don’t worry, because we bring you glimpses of what is happening in Puri right now. Hint: It’s beautiful and grand!
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026 Begins In Puri
The world-famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath and his two siblings, elder brother Lord Balabhadra and younger sister Devi Subhadra, has officially begun today in Puri, Odisha. During the festival, the deities give darshan to devotees from their grand chariots and travel to the Gundicha Temple, which is considered the maternal aunt’s abode of Lord Jagannath.
Jai Jagannath ⭕❗⭕
When millions move with one faith, it’s called Jagannath Rath Yatra.
जगन्नाथ रथ यात्रा की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं 🚩 pic.twitter.com/o3QPhehKbK
— Sthir Vichaar (@SthirVichaar) July 16, 2026
The festivities have begun in full swing. Thousands of devotees have gathered on Puri’s Grand Road as the Rath Yatra begins. An X post by @SthirVichaar shows visuals depicting devotion and faith.
Here is a clear demonstration of how the giant Rathas, pulled by thousands of devotees, are brought to a halt.
A massive wooden log suspended at the front of each Ratha is lowered to the ground, creating enough friction to slow down and stop these colossal rathas.#RathaJatra… pic.twitter.com/aNzfOTB5je
— Manas Muduli (@manas_muduli) July 15, 2026
The chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees as people chant prayers in the background, creating a festive yet spiritual atmosphere. A post by @@manas_muduli shows how the Rathas are pulled.
Jai Jagannath 🙏 pic.twitter.com/bGEOnhTtaO
— Sudarsan Pattnaik (@sudarsansand) July 16, 2026
According to India TV, Sudarsan Pattnaik, known for his sand sculptures, marked the festival by creating a colourful sculpture of Lord Jagannath using sand at Puri Beach. Moreover, the sculpture is surrounded by 100 miniature sand chariots and looks absolutely beautiful.
Also Read: From Sacred Wood Hunt To Niladri Bije, 5 Fascinating Traditions Around Puri’s Rath Yatra
What Other Rituals Took Place During Rath Yatra?
Ratha Pratistha rituals are underway at Jagannatha Dham, Puri.
Next comes the sacred Pahandi, as Mahaprabhu & His siblings prepare to ascend their Rathas.
The sea of devotees continues to swell, with millions gathering to witness this grand spectacle of faith.
Jai Jagannatha. pic.twitter.com/axTmHIOvaZ
— Manas Muduli (@manas_muduli) July 16, 2026
Ratha Pratistha rituals also took place at Jagannath Dham in Puri before the sacred Pahandi rituals on the morning of July 16. An X post by @manas_muduli shares glimpses of the rituals.
Millions of hearts. One sacred journey. ❤️
The holy city of Puri is once again ready to witness an extraordinary wave of devotion as Lord Jagannath’s revered Rath Yatra begins, one of the world’s largest and most celebrated chariot festivals. 🛕🚩
📍 Puri, Odisha
📅 16 July… pic.twitter.com/7J1T4GQV90— Saru (@Sunita_kumari_) July 16, 2026
Another X post by @Sunita_kumari_ shows the devotion of the people as the Jagannath Rath Yatra begins. Devotees are trying to capture the moments on their mobile phones while cultural performances take place, leaving people amazed.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026 will conclude on July 24, 2026. On this day, the deities will return to the main temple in their grand chariots.
Also Read: Mumbai’s Biggest Jagannath Rath Yatra Is Happening On July 18 With ISKCON Juhu Organising It!
Have you ever witnessed the Jagannath Rath Yatra? How was your experience?
Cover Image Courtesy: @sudarsansand/X and @Sunita_kumari_/X
FAQs
Where does Jagannath Rath Yatra happen?
The Jagannath Rath Yatra takes place in Puri, Odisha.