President Murmu Joyfully Extends Greetings on Jagannath Yatra, Prays for Peace and Harmony Across India

On the occasion of the sacred Jagannath Yatra, President Droupadi Murmu conveyed her heartfelt greetings to the people of India. The annual festival, rooted in deep spiritual tradition, continues to unite millions of devotees across the globe. President Murmu, in her warm message, expressed hope that the festival brings peace, harmony, and prosperity to every household.

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Jagannath Yatra: A Festival of Faith and Devotion

The Jagannath Yatra, also known as Rath Yatra, is one of the most revered Hindu festivals, especially celebrated in Odisha’s holy city of Puri. The chariot festival, marked by the ceremonial procession of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, attracts lakhs of devotees from all parts of the country and abroad.

This festival represents the journey of the divine trio from their temple to their garden palace and is symbolic of their willingness to be among devotees. The enthusiasm and spiritual vibrancy witnessed during the Jagannath Yatra is unmatched and deeply inspiring.

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President Murmu’s Message: A Prayer for National Harmony

President Murmu, hailing from Odisha herself, has a deep cultural connection to the Jagannath Yatra. In her official statement released on Wednesday morning, she said:

“On the auspicious occasion of Jagannath Yatra, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all citizens. May this festival, symbolizing unity and devotion, bring lasting peace, joy, and harmony to our society.”

She further added that the values reflected through Jagannath Yatra — inclusion, humility, and devotion — are important guiding lights for the modern world. Her words resonated across political and spiritual spheres, and were welcomed widely by the public.

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Cultural Significance of Jagannath Yatra in 2025

In 2025, the Jagannath Yatra has taken on even greater significance as devotees, after years impacted by pandemic restrictions, are returning in full numbers to witness the divine spectacle. The grandeur of the decorated chariots, the rhythm of devotional chants, and the sea of humanity pulling the ropes together present a timeless picture of faith.

This year’s yatra saw an increase in participation not only from Indian states but also from international pilgrims and tourists, indicating the global spiritual importance of this ancient tradition.

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Security and Celebration: A Balanced Approach

As the crowd swelled in Puri and other Jagannath temples across India, local authorities took all necessary precautions to ensure the festival remained peaceful. Over 15,000 personnel were reportedly deployed in Odisha, including police, disaster response forces, and medical aid teams.

Devotees were seen standing in queues from the early hours of the morning, many having travelled days in advance. The atmosphere was charged with devotion, bhajans, and the echoing sounds of conch shells.

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A Festival That Transcends Religions and Boundaries

Jagannath Yatra holds a unique position in India’s diverse religious landscape. It is a festival where distinctions of caste, creed, gender, and class melt away in the overwhelming presence of divinity. President Murmu rightly emphasized this aspect in her greetings, reminding the nation of its foundational values of inclusiveness and harmony.

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Political Leaders Join the Festive Spirit

Besides President Murmu, several key leaders including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and various chief ministers also shared messages on the occasion of Jagannath Yatra. All of them underlined the need to preserve India’s cultural heritage and the spiritual unity such festivals reinforce.

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The Global Resonance of Jagannath Yatra

With Indian diaspora communities organizing their own versions of Jagannath Yatra in cities like London, New York, Sydney, and Tokyo, the festival is truly a global phenomenon today. It is not just a religious observance but also a symbol of India’s soft power and spiritual outreach.

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President Murmu and Her Deep Cultural Roots

Being the first tribal woman to assume the office of the President of India, Droupadi Murmu has always acknowledged her cultural heritage. Her greetings on the occasion of Jagannath Yatra were not merely ceremonial but deeply personal, reflecting her emotional connection to the traditions of Odisha.

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Conclusion: Jagannath Yatra as a Symbol of Unity and Hope

In a time where societal challenges and unrest often dominate headlines, the message of Jagannath Yatra — as reiterated by President Murmu — is one of hope, unity, and spiritual rejuvenation. Her joyful wishes have added to the national mood of celebration, reminding every citizen of the importance of peace, communal harmony, and devotion.

As the chariots roll forward this year, may the wheels of compassion, wisdom, and cultural pride roll with them across the hearts of millions.