Odisha CM declares two-day holiday for Rath Yatra

Bhubaneswar, July 2: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced a two-day holiday, June 7-8, for this year's Rath Yatra in Odisha. The decision was made during the final coordination meeting for the annual journey of the Lords of Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, where the CM emphasized the significance of the occasion coinciding with Netra Utsav and Nabajaubana after 53 years.

"We are fortunate to witness this rare event spanning two days. Hence, the holiday will also be extended by a day," he stated, stressing the importance of smooth and timely execution of rituals.

The CM also mentioned President Droupadi Murmu's participation in the Rath Yatra, noting her arrival in Puri on July 6 and her involvement in the chariot pulling on June 7.

Deputy CMs KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, and Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja were present at the meeting where the schedule, approved by Chhattisha Nijog and the temple managing committee, confirmed the Rath Yatra's commencement at 5 pm on July 7. The chariots will proceed to Gundicha temple the following day, and on July 9, the deities will be placed in the 'Adapa Mandap' within the temple premises.