Puri, June 20: Sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has captured the essence of the famous Jagannath Rath Yatra festival by creating a magnificent sand art display at Puri Beach in Odisha. A video showcasing his art has been circulating on social media, featuring the beautifully crafted chariots of Lord Jagannath and his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra.
The festival holds great significance in Odisha and is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, considered an incarnation of Lord Krishna, and his divine siblings.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is not only the largest yatra in India but also one of the biggest in the world. Millions of devotees from various corners of the globe gather in Odisha to be part of this grand celebration. The Yatra involves a procession where Lord Jagannath and his siblings are carried in intricately designed chariots called raths.
Each year, these raths are constructed specifically for the yatra, and thousands of devotees enthusiastically come together to pull them using ropes. The Rath Yatra marks a symbolic journey from the Jagannath temple to the Gundicha temple in Puri, spanning a distance of 3 kilometers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed admiration for the Rath Yatra, hailing it as a wonder that showcases the true spirit of “Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat” (One India, Great India). In the 102nd episode of his radio program ‘Maan Ki Baat,’ he highlighted how the yatra is celebrated with great enthusiasm in various states across the country.
Modi fondly recalled his own experiences attending the yatra in Ahmedabad during his time in Gujarat. He commended the remarkable participation of people from diverse backgrounds and classes, emphasizing that it reflects not only their deep-rooted faith but also the spirit of unity and excellence.
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With heartfelt wishes ahead of this auspicious occasion, Prime Minister Modi prayed for Lord Jagannath’s blessings upon the entire nation, bestowing good health, happiness, and prosperity upon all.
The sand art installation by Sudarsan Pattnaik serves as a mesmerizing tribute to the Jagannath Rath Yatra, capturing its essence and spreading joy and inspiration to those who witness it. The vibrant celebration of this grand festival at Puri Beach showcases the rich cultural heritage and spiritual fervor of Odisha, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of devotees and visitors alike.
