Puri turns into ocean of devotion as Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 sees huge turnout of 15 lakh devotees
by Utsav RoyThe holy town of Puri in Odisha is fully prepared to host the Sri Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025, which begins today, June 27. Thousands of devotees are expected to join this grand annual religious celebration that holds deep cultural and spiritual importance.
As part of the Rath Yatra, worshippers pull the elaborately decorated chariots of the three deities, Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Lord Balabhadra, and their sister Devi Subhadra. These sacred idols are taken to the Gundicha Temple, where they remain for about a week before being brought back to the main Jagannath Temple on July 8, marking the conclusion of the yatra.
The festival draws lakhs of pilgrims from all across India and even from abroad, as people gather in Puri to catch a glimpse of the divine trinity. This annual event is unique in that the deities are brought out of the 12th-century temple to engage directly with devotees, transcending barriers of caste, religion, and creed.
Given the expected influx of around 15 lakh pilgrims on the first two days alone, authorities have implemented an extensive security plan. Around 10,000 personnel from the Odisha Police and eight companies of the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed across key areas. In addition, approximately 275 Artificial Intelligence-enabled CCTV cameras have been installed along important routes, including those connecting Uttara Chhak to Puri town and from Puri to Konark.
This year, heightened security measures have been adopted in light of recent security concerns, including the Pahalgam terror incident. Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Y B Khurania announced that an Integrated Command and Control Room has been set up in Puri for the first time. The AI-powered surveillance system will monitor crowd density, traffic flow, and other crucial elements, enabling timely intervention during emergencies. Sub-control rooms have also been established at strategic points to ensure seamless coordination.
Furthermore, the deployment of NSG (National Security Guard) snipers on rooftops marks a significant increase in precautionary measures. Anti-drone systems and police drones will conduct aerial monitoring, while anti-sabotage teams, bomb squads, and trained dog units are on standby to address any threats.
Security on the coastline is also a priority. Marine Police, the Indian Coast Guard, and the Indian Navy are working together to ensure protection along Puri’s beachfront. In a first, a real-time chatbot service has been introduced to assist pilgrims with practical information like parking availability, navigation, and directions to the nearest open parking areas.
DGP Khurania emphasized that smooth and safe darshan for devotees remains a top priority. Experienced officers have been assigned to manage the crowds and maintain order throughout the festival. Director of Intelligence R P Koche highlighted the elevated importance of the Jagannath Temple, which lies in a high-security zone. He noted that additional protection has been arranged for both the Gundicha Temple and the three massive chariots.
ADG Soumendra Priyadarshi assured that effective crowd control measures are in place, while ADG (Law and Order) Sanjay Kumar stressed the importance of coordinated efforts from police officers and staff to ensure the Rath Yatra concludes peacefully and successfully.