image credits: Odisha Tourism
The Rukuna Rath Yatra is one of Odisha’s most revered festivals which allured devotees in 2025 as part of the Ashokastami celebrations. Held on April 5 and 6, this grand chariot festival is dedicated to Lord Lingaraj. Celebrated with immense devotion in Bhubaneswar, the event attracted lakhs of people who gathered to witness the divine procession.
Where did 2025’s Rukuna Rath Yatra Happen in Odisha?
The Rukuna Rath Yatra occurred in Bhubaneswar. The procession commenced at the iconic Lingaraj Temple; an 11th-century architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva in his Harihara form. From there, the chariot carrying Lord Lingaraj, Goddess Durga (representing Rukmini), and Lord Gobinda (Dolagobinda) journeyed to the Mausima Temple, also known as the Rameswaram shrine. This sacred route along Rath Road turned into a vibrant hub of devotion, filled with chants, bells, and the rhythmic sounds of traditional instruments.
A Glimpse into the Rukuna Rath Yatra’s History
The Rukuna Rath Yatra is closely tied to the worship of Lord Lingaraj. Observed during Ashokastami in the month of Chaitra, the festival commemorated Lord Lingaraj’s journey to his maternal aunt’s abode, symbolized by the Mausima Temple. Observed during Ashokastami in the month of Chaitra, the festival commemorated Lord Lingaraj’s journey to his maternal aunt’s abode, symbolized by the Mausima Temple. Known as ‘Papa Binashakari Yatra’—the festival that destroys all evil and sins—it had been celebrated for centuries, according to historical accounts. Its unique feature, earning it the name ‘Ana leuta,’ lay in its straight path, with the chariot pulled from the rear and the deities’ altars adjusted without turns.
Rituals and Celebrations of 2025’s Rukuna Rath Yatra
The Rukuna Rath Yatra’s rituals began early, with the chariot worshipped at Maha Kala the previous night using holy water from Marichi Kunda near Kedara Gouri and Mukteswar temples. The Khetrabasi Brahmin Niyog servitors performed the worship, followed by the Netra Puja, placing the Netra atop the chariot. On April 5, the Mangala Alati and Abakasha rituals started at 5 am, followed by the Sahana Mela darshan at 5:30 am. The Chhamu Puskara, Maha Snana, and Besha rituals occurred at 6:30 am, 7 am, and 8 am respectively. The procession began at 3:00 pm.
The air along Rath Road echoed with “Haribol” and “Hulhuli” chants as devotees pulled the chariot. The six-day festival concluded with the Bahuda Yatra on April 9 and 10, marking the deities’ return to the Lingaraj Temple.
Also read about celebration of Panchu Dola Festival in Banapur: click here
How did Odisha’s Administration Ensured a Smooth Functioning?
The Commissionerate Police ensured the event’s smooth execution with robust arrangements. Bhubaneswar DCP Jagmohan Meena and Traffic DCP Tapan Mahanty led security and traffic management, backed by three additional DCPs, five ACPs, 12 Inspectors, 55 Sub-Inspectors, and 16 platoons of police force, including 85 Home Guards. A traffic advisory restricted vehicles on Rath Road from Mausimaa Chowk, diverting them towards Museum Chowk or Vivekananda Marg, with additional restrictions at lanes like Barik Sahi and Harchandi Lane. These efforts safeguarded the massive crowds over the six days.
