Odisha Samaj UAE celebrates 15 years of Rath Yatra in Dubai with rituals, chariot pulling, classical dances, and over 1,000 attendees.
Dubai witnessed a spectacular celebration of faith and culture as Odisha Samaj UAE marked the 15th year of Rath Yatra in Dubai, bringing together thousands at Star International School. What began modestly in 2009 has now blossomed into one of the UAE’s most revered spiritual and cultural gatherings for the Odia diaspora.
The celebration honoured Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra in a day filled with rituals, community bonding, and vibrant performances. Over 1,000 devotees from all seven emirates, including participants from other Indian communities, gathered in harmony to witness the grandeur.
The festivities commenced early with Surya Puja at 7:00 AM, followed by the solemn Pahandi Bije, as the idols were carried ceremoniously to the chariot by 11:30 AM. Adding to the authenticity, more than 100 Odia families prepared Chhappan Bhoga, the 56 traditional dishes offered to the deities—a spiritual highlight echoing the age-old Puri tradition.
The spiritual ambience heightened with children performing the Devadasi dance, and devotees chanting the 108 Mahamantra. The most awaited moment arrived at 12:30 PM, when the chariot pulling ceremony commenced, led by none other than Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India to Dubai, who joined devotees in this cherished ritual.
Attendees were then served Mahaprasad, fostering a deep sense of unity and gratitude among all.
The evening segment sustained the energy with Sankirtan, Bhajan Sandhya, and an exquisite Odissi dance performance, celebrating Odisha’s rich artistic heritage while nurturing cultural pride.
Amiya Mishra, President of Odisha Samaj UAE, remarked, “This celebration is our spiritual thread connecting us to our roots. For 15 years, we’ve created a slice of Odisha here, and it continues to strengthen our identity and unity.”
The Rath Yatra Dubai has evolved into more than a festival—it’s a symbol of inclusion and heritage, welcoming people across backgrounds to celebrate devotion and cultural richness, year after year.
