Odisha Health Department Issues Advisory for Rath Yatra Devotees; Three Chariots Reach Singhadwara

Ahead of the world-famous Rath Yatra, the Odisha Health Department has issued a comprehensive health advisory for devotees visiting Puri, urging them to take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and healthy pilgrimage.

The department has advised people suffering from fever, cold, cough, flu or other infectious symptoms to avoid crowded places during the festival. Devotees have also been asked to drink only safe drinking water, wash their hands thoroughly before eating, and maintain personal hygiene throughout their visit.

Avoid Unsafe Food, Stay Hydrated

The advisory cautions pilgrims against consuming food sold in the open, stale or foul-smelling food, artificially coloured items, fruits and vegetables that appear spoiled, or food exposed to flies.

To prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses, devotees have been advised to wear a light-coloured cap or cover their heads with a wet cloth, drink sufficient ORS and water, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

Safety Measures for Pilgrims

The Health Department has urged visitors to follow the instructions of lifeguards while taking a dip in the sea to prevent accidents. Those staying overnight in Puri have been advised to use mosquito nets or mosquito repellents.

Special care has also been recommended for children, senior citizens and persons with disabilities, who should be kept away from overcrowded areas. Anyone feeling unwell has been advised to immediately visit the nearest medical centre.

For emergencies, devotees can contact the Puri Hospital Control Room (06752-222175), the State Health Helpline (104) or call 108 Ambulance Services.

Three Chariots Reach Singhadwara

Meanwhile, Puri has transformed into a sea of devotees ahead of the grand Rath Yatra. While sacred rituals continue inside the Shree Jagannath Temple, the three majestic chariots have taken their designated positions in front of the Singhadwara.

Following the Gopal Ballav and Sakala Dhupa rituals, the sacred Agyanmala was ceremonially brought from the temple and offered to the three chariots by the designated temple servitors.

As per tradition, the chariots were then pulled from the Rath Khala to the Singhadwara. Nandighosha, the chariot of Lord Jagannath, arrived first, followed by Debadalana, the chariot of Goddess Subhadra, and finally Taladhwaja, the chariot of Lord Balabhadra.

Spiritual Fervour Grips Puri

With the three chariots now stationed before the temple, the spiritual atmosphere in Puri has intensified. Thousands of devotees have gathered along the Bada Danda, offering prayers and eagerly awaiting the divine appearance of Lord Jagannath during the Rath Yatra.

The Grand Road reverberates with chants of “Jai Jagannath,” the ringing of temple bells, devotional hymns, and the fragrance of incense, creating an atmosphere of deep devotion as the holy city prepares for one of the world’s largest religious festivals.