Rath Yatra 2026 in pictures: Sea of devotees, faith and grand processions

The annual Jagannath Rath Yatra witnessed grand celebrations across Puri, Ahmedabad and Rajkot, with devotees, traditional rituals, decorated elephants and vibrant processions drawing lakhs of people. Highlights included the sacred Chhera Pahanra ritual in Puri and community feasts, akhadas and cultural performances in Ahmedabad.

1/10

Priests and servitors perform the Dhadi Pahandi ritual (ceremonial procession) as they carry the idol of Lord Jagannath to the Nandighosha Ratha (chariot of Lord Jagannath) during the annual Rath Yatra festival, at the Jagannath Dham in Puri, Odisha.

Photo Credit : PTI

2/10

Photo Credit : PTI

3/10

Differently abled devotees in wheelchairs carry idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra during the Rath Yatra festival celebrations, in Kolkata.

Photo Credit : PTI

4/10

A priest blows a conch as the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra are carried during the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra procession in Prayagraj.

Photo Credit : PTI

5/10

People take part during the annual Rath Yatra festival celebration, in Ahmedabad, Thursday, July 16, 2026.

Photo Credit : PTI

6/10

People gather during the 'Pahandi' ritual (carrying the deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra from the temple sanctum to their chariots) as the annual Rath Yatra festival commences, at the Jagannath Dham in Puri, Odisha.

Photo Credit : PTI

7/10

Decorated elephants walk past during the annual Rath Yatra, or chariot procession, in Ahmedabad.

Photo Credit : Reuters

8/10

Photo Credit : PTI

9/10

An artist dressed as Lord Hanuman as he takes part in a procession during the annual Jagannath rath Yatra, in Prayagraj.

Photo Credit : PTI

10/10

Artists dressed as Goddess Kali perform during the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra procession, in Rajkot.

Photo Credit : PTI