The world‑famous Rath Yatra drew lakhs of devotees to the holy city of Puri on Thursday, including renowned Bollywood playback singer Sonu Nigam, who arrived to seek the divine blessings of Lord Jagannath.
This marks his first visit to witness the sacred chariot festival, where the Lord’s grand procession unfolds amid chants and devotion.
Amid the spiritual fervour, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the latest editions of state publications — Utkal Prasanga, Odisha Review, and Pragati Prabah — released by the Information and Public Relations Department in the presence of senior cabinet ministers.
The Chief Minister also launched a ‘Tanka Torani’ distribution centre near the Singhadwar, ensuring devotees and pilgrims receive the traditional cooling drink during the festival. Volunteers were seen distributing the refreshing beverage to visitors braving the humid monsoon weather.
The twin moments — Sonu Nigam’s devotional visit and the Chief Minister’s initiatives — added a cultural and humanitarian dimension to the grand celebration, reflecting Odisha’s enduring spirit of faith and hospitality.
