A tragic stampede during the grand Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, has claimed three lives — two women and one elderly man — and left 10 others injured. The incident occurred near the Shree Gundicha Temple early morning as the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra reached the site. Eyewitnesses blame poor crowd management and inadequate police presence for the tragedy. Among those raising concerns was Swadhin Kumar Panda, who alleged this wasn’t the first time deaths went unreported. As millions gather to celebrate this sacred annual journey, questions now arise on the safety measures in place.

The grand celebrations of Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 have begun at the iconic Sree Jagannath Temple in Puri. In a spiritually charged atmosphere, devotees witnessed the ceremonial procession as Lord Jagannath was brought out and placed on the majestic chariot, marking the start of one of India’s most revered festivals.