In the absence of public attendance, the annual Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra began today in Puri after the Supreme Court modified its stay order and permitted the festivities without any public attendance. In view of the coronavirus pandemic, the apex court has allowed the authorities to have only 500 people to pull the holy chariots.
The idol of Lord Balabhadra has been brought to the chariot by priests and ‘sevayats’ for the Rath Yatra from Jagannath Temple in Puri. The pulling of every chariot is being supervised by a senior officer.
“We have done good arrangement for Rath Yatra after Supreme Court has found a midway to perform the Yatra here where the devotees can attend it from their houses, over the televisions and their smartphone. It is the safest way to be a part of the Rath Yatra from a remote area,” said a police officer.
Performing artists, priests were also seen participating in the Rath Yatra.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted people on the occasion of Lord Jagannath Yatra, hoping that it brings good health and prosperity. “My heartiest greetings to all of you on the auspicious occasion of Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra. I wish that this journey filled with reverence & devotion brings happiness, prosperity, good luck and health to the lives of the countrymen,” PM Modi said in his message.
News Source: Livemit