The Spiritual Grandeur of Rath Yatra 2025
Rath Yatra, also known as Shree Gundicha Yatra, is one of India’s grandest spiritual festivals. Celebrated annually in Puri, Odisha, it draws lakhs of devotees who come to witness Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra embark on their divine chariot journey to the Gundicha Temple.
This year, Rath Yatra 2025 is observed on the Dwitiya Tithi of the Shukla Paksha in the Ashadha month. Amidst the grand celebrations, the story of one extraordinary devotee stands out — Salabega.
Salabega was born in the early 17th century to a Mughal subedar and a Hindu Brahmin mother. Despite his Islamic upbringing, Salabega became one of the most beloved devotees of Lord Jagannath. His transformation began after a life-threatening illness, which, according to folklore, was healed by Lord Jagannath’s divine grace during a dream.
That moment sparked an unwavering faith in Salabega, who then dedicated his life to composing devotional hymns like the famous “Ahe Nila Saila”. His songs remain an integral part of Odia devotional culture and are sung by devotees during rituals even today.
The Miracle During Rath Yatra
A popular legend tells that one year, Salabega was unable to reach Puri in time for Rath Yatra. Moved by his devotion, Lord Jagannath’s chariot miraculously halted midway — at the exact spot where Salabega would later arrive. Today, that place is home to a small shrine dedicated to him, where the chariot still pauses every year, commemorating the divine bond between devotee and deity.
A Symbol of Communal Harmony
Salabega’s devotion transcended religious boundaries. His life story stands as a timeless message of spiritual inclusiveness. At a time when religious divisions often dominate headlines, his example is a poignant reminder that faith knows no religion — only devotion.
Odisha’s cultural ethos proudly celebrates Salabega’s legacy during Rath Yatra. His contribution has even been acknowledged in the Odisha government’s official records as one of the greatest devotional poets of the state.
Rath Yatra Rituals: A Journey of Faith
The festival begins with Rath Snana, the ceremonial bathing of the deities with 108 pots of sacred water. After this, the chariots are consecrated in the Rath Pratistha ritual. The pulling of the chariots to the Gundicha Temple marks the central celebration.
The return journey, known as Bahuda Yatra, and the final ritual Niladri Vijaya, conclude the week-long festivities, promising the Lord’s return next year.