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Key Points

Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat describes the Jagannath Rath Yatra as a timeless symbol of India's Sanatan culture. He highlights its role in uniting people across generations and faiths. Both Shekhawat and Dharmendra Pradhan seek blessings from Puri Shankaracharya during the festival. The grand chariot procession continues to draw massive crowds, reinforcing its spiritual significance.

Key Points: Shekhawat Calls Jagannath Rath Yatra Symbol of Sanatan Culture

  • Shekhawat emphasizes Rath Yatra as a unifying force for India
  • Pradhan prays for national peace and prosperity
  • Devotees throng Puri for chariot procession
  • Event showcases India's ancient spiritual traditions
2 min read

Symbol of the antiquity of Sanatan culture: Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Jagannath Rath Yatra

Union Ministers Shekhawat and Pradhan highlight the cultural and spiritual significance of Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri.

"This festival is a symbol of the antiquity of Sanatan culture, as well as its continuity. – Gajendra Singh Shekhawat"

Puri, June 27

Union Ministers Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Dharmendra Pradhan sought blessings from Jagadguru Rambhadracharya in Puri on Friday.

As the Jagannath Rath Yatra has commenced on Friday, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat termed the festival a "symbol" of antiquity of "Sanatan culture" and its continuity.

He mentioned that for many generations, the festival has been celebrated as a symbol of unity and uniting the people of India. Shekhawat extended gratitude for getting opportunity to attend Rath Yatra and seeking blessings from Puri Shankaracharya.

"This festival is a symbol of the antiquity of Sanatan culture, as well as its continuity. For many centuries, this festival has been celebrated as a symbol of unity, uniting the people of India and bringing together followers of different faiths from around the world. Evidence of this can be found in written history spanning thousands of years. Fortunately, I have got the opportunity to attend this Rath Yatra, I will get the chance to see Lord Jagannath Prabhu, but above all, I am fortunate that I have got the opportunity to come here on Puri Peeth and see Puri Shankaracharya, to take his blessings, to listen to his dialogue", Shekhawat told reporters.

Meanwhile, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also extended greetings on the occasion.

"On the auspicious day of this Ratha Yatra, I pray that the blessings of the Lord are with everyone. The country continues to be peaceful, developing, and be complete is what is in the hearts of lord...On this auspicious day, I extend good wishes to the countrymen," he said.

During the festival in Puri, devotees draw the grand chariots of the three deities -- Lord Jagannath, his brother Lord Balabhadra, and sister goddess Subhadra -- to the Gundicha Temple, where the deities reside for a week before returning to the Jagannath Temple. The Rath Yatra ceremony is expected to attract a large crowd, making traffic management a key issue.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
Jai Jagannath! 🙏 The Rath Yatra is truly a magnificent celebration that unites all Indians beyond caste and creed. I remember visiting Puri as a child with my grandparents - the energy and devotion is unforgettable. Hope the government provides proper facilities for the millions of devotees.
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Rahul M.
While I respect our traditions, I wish politicians wouldn't use religious events for publicity. The Rath Yatra is sacred - it shouldn't become a photo-op. Let's focus on preserving our culture without mixing politics.
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Ananya S.
The Rath Yatra is indeed a beautiful symbol of our living heritage! 🌟 I appreciate how the minister highlighted how it unites people across faiths. In Odisha, we see Muslim and Christian families also participating with equal devotion. That's the real India!
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Vikram J.
As someone who's never been to Puri, articles like this make me want to experience the Rath Yatra at least once in my lifetime. The scale must be breathtaking! But I worry about overcrowding - hope the authorities manage the crowds safely.
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Sneha P.
The ministers' words are nice, but I wish they'd talk more about preserving the temple's ancient architecture and supporting the local artisans who make the chariots. Our culture isn't just about rituals - it's about sustaining the crafts and knowledge too.
K
Karan D.
My Odia friends tell me the Rath Yatra preparations begin months in advance! The devotion is incredible. But I hope the media coverage doesn't turn this into just a tourist spectacle. The spiritual significance should remain foremost.

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