Puri Rath Yatra 2026 LIVE Updates: Pahandi of Lord Jagannath, His Siblings begins

"The rituals for the world-famous Puri Rath Yatra 2026 began at Srimandir today, with devotees eagerly awaiting the divine journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra to the Gundicha Temple. The grand festival is being conducted as per centuries-old traditions, with a series of rituals being performed at the Shree Jagannath Temple before the chariots begin their onward journey.Advertisment The sacred rituals have commenced at Srimandir, and several important ceremonies will be performed throughout the day. The morning proceedings include the Dhupa ceremony at the Bhoga Mandap, followed by other rituals associated with the preparation of the deities and chariots. The Pahandi procession, one of the most significant rituals of Rath Yatra, will see the Holy Trinity being carried out of the sanctum in a grand ceremonial procession amid the chanting of devotees and the sound of traditional instruments. The deities will then be placed on their respective chariots — Nandighosa of Lord Jagannath, Taladhwaja of Lord Balabhadra and Darpadalana of Devi Subhadra.Advertisment The revered Chhera Pahanra ritual, performed by the Gajapati Maharaja, will follow the Pahandi ceremony. The symbolic sweeping of the chariots with a golden broom represents humility and devotion before Lord Jagannath. After the completion of all rituals, the three majestic chariots will be prepared for the grand procession from Srimandir to the Gundicha Temple. Lakhs of devotees are expected to gather in Puri to witness the divine spectacle and seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath."