On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his warm wishes on the occasion of the Jagannath Rath Yatra. Through a post on his official X handle, he expressed his hopes for joy, prosperity, good fortune, and robust health for all. “Heartfelt greetings to all my fellow citizens on the auspicious occasion of Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra. May this sacred festival of devotion and faith bring happiness, well-being, and good health to everyone’s lives. Jai Jagannath!” PM Modi posted.

In addition to the Rath Yatra, PM Modi also extended his wishes on the celebration of the Kutch New Year, which begins on the second day of the Hindu month of Ashadh. “Special greetings to the Kutchi community worldwide on the occasion of Ashadhi Bij. May the upcoming year be filled with peace, prosperity, and great health for all,” he added. President Droupadi Murmu also extended her greetings to Lord Jagannath’s devotees both in India and abroad. In her message posted in Odia on X, she emphasized the spiritual significance of the festival.

“On this sacred occasion of Rath Yatra, I send my heartfelt wishes to the devotees of Lord Jagannath across the world. Millions find divine joy as they witness Lord Balabhadra, Lord Jagannath, Goddess Subhadra, and Chakraraj Sudarshan on the grand chariots,” she wrote. She also prayed for peace, harmony, and global friendship, noting that the divine, human-like acts of the deities are a distinctive aspect of the festival.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also greeted the nation on the occasion. In a message on X, he described the Rath Yatra as a remarkable blend of spirituality and devotion. “Salutations to Lord Jagannath! Best wishes to everyone on this sacred occasion. The Rath Yatra is a symbol of devotion, culture, and spiritual progress. It teaches us to move forward while preserving our rich traditions,” he said. Shah concluded by praying for the welfare and advancement of all in the name of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, Veer Balabhadra, and Mata Subhadra.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI.