Agartala, July 15: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha stated on Wednesday that the Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath symbolizes India’s rich cultural heritage, social harmony, and the spirit of ‘unity in diversity.’ He urged the public to embody the festival’s messages of equality, inclusivity, and peaceful coexistence in their daily lives.
Inaugurating the nine-day traditional Rath Yatra festival at the historic Jagannath Bari in Melaghar, Sepahijala district, the Chief Minister described it as a universal celebration that unites people of all religions and strengthens communal harmony. The event is organized jointly by the Sepahijala district administration, the Information and Cultural Department, and the Melaghar Municipal Council.
Addressing a large gathering, Saha emphasized that the annual Rath Yatra festival symbolizes Lord Jagannath’s blessings as he comes out of the temple, conveying the eternal message that people of all faiths and communities should live together in peace and harmony.
He noted that the Rath Yatra is not merely a religious festival but a celebration of India’s cultural spirit, social unity, and communal harmony. It promotes cultural exchange and strengthens the bonds of brotherhood among people.
Highlighting the national and global significance of the festival, the Chief Minister pointed out that the Rath Yatra in Puri is the most renowned chariot festival in the country, while similar grand events take place in Maheshpur and Mayapur in West Bengal. He further mentioned that through ISKCON, this festival has now become a global event, showcasing India’s spiritual and cultural traditions worldwide.
Saha emphasized the importance of preserving India’s civilizational heritage and urged the younger generation to embrace modernity while staying connected to the country’s rich cultural traditions. Citing ancient Hindu texts like the Brahma Purana, Padma Purana, and Skanda Purana, he highlighted the significance of the Rath Yatra.
The Chief Minister also underscored the central government’s initiatives for the preservation and development of religious heritage sites across the country. He mentioned projects such as the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, Mahakal Lok in Ujjain, the Somnath Temple, the Char Dham pilgrimage centers, the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, and the Buddhist Circuit.
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