New Delhi, July 16 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu and Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Thursday extended greetings on the occasion of the annual Rath Yatra, terming the festival as a celebration of “our rich civilisational ethos” and an “emotional moment of union” between devotees and the Lord.

Taking to X, President Murmu said: “On this sacred occasion of Mahaprabhu’s Rath Yatra, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to all devotees of Shri Jagannath both in the country and abroad.”

“It is a popular belief that during this great tradition of the holy procession, Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath, along with Chakraraj Sudarshan, elder brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra, meets the devotees. This emotional moment of union between the devotees and the Lord is unparalleled,” she added.

President Murmu prayed that by the grace of ‘Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath’, “there may be a continuous increase in the happiness and prosperity of our country and its people. Jai Jagannath!”

Vice President Radhakrishnan also extended “warm greetings” on the auspicious occasion of Rath Yatra.

In a post on X, he wrote: “The sacred Rath Yatra reflects the values of faith, devotion, equality and collective harmony, bringing people together beyond all differences. It is a vibrant celebration of our rich civilisational ethos and enduring spiritual traditions.”

“May the divine blessings of Mahaprabhu Jagannath inspire us to walk the path of righteousness, strengthen our collective resolve and foster peace and unity across our nation,” the Vice President said.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended greetings on the Jagannath Rath Yatra, calling it a “radiant expression” of the country’s spiritual and cultural heritage and wishing for peace and prosperity in society.

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Greetings to everyone on the sacred occasion of Rath Yatra. This is a radiant expression of India’s timeless spiritual and cultural heritage. The traditions associated with the Rath Yatra have inspired generations across India and the world. They embody humility, collective participation and selfless service.”

“May Mahaprabhu Jagannath bless everyone with good health, happiness and prosperity. May He give us strength for all our endeavours and deepen the spirit of togetherness in our society. Jai Jagannath!” he added.

–IANS

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