Khordha, Jul 17: A rare and spiritually captivating ‘Jala Rath Yatra’ was celebrated on Chilika Lake in Odisha’s Khordha district, where Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra, and Sudarshan undertook their annual journey not on traditional wooden chariots, but aboard beautifully decorated boats.

The unique ritual took place at Kankana Shikhari, an island located in the middle of Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. Unlike the world-famous Rath Yatra in Puri, where devotees pull massive wooden chariots along the Grand Road, the deities here travel across the tranquil waters of Chilika to the Mausi Maa Temple, creating a breathtaking spiritual spectacle.

Thousands of devotees from across Odisha and other parts of the country gathered to witness the one-of-a-kind water procession, believed to be the only Jala Rath Yatra of its kind in the world.

To ensure the safety of pilgrims, the Khordha district administration, police, temple committee, Chilika Wildlife Division, and the Chilika Development Authority made elaborate security arrangements. Three Fire Services teams were deployed, while the Forest Department provided two boats. The local fishing community also extended support by deploying ten additional boats for the event.

Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Milan Nayak said the festival is unlike any other Rath Yatra as it takes place entirely on water, requiring round-the-clock coordination among multiple departments to ensure smooth and safe conduct.

The divine boat procession, set against the serene backdrop of Chilika Lake, offered devotees a rare blend of spirituality and natural beauty, making the annual event a memorable celebration of faith and tradition.