Week-long festivities draw to a close with Ulto Rath rituals
Times of India | 6 July 2025
Kolkata/Digha: Thousands of tourists and devotees attended the inaugural Ulto Rath Yatra at Digha Jagannath Dham on Saturday, marking the conclusion of the week-long festivities. Although the rush was less than what was witnessed during Rath, the enthusiasm was palpable throughout the day.
With entry to the temple being strictly monitored to avoid a stampede-like situation, devotees made a beeline for it, especially after the raths carrying Lord Jagannath arrived back at the temple. The administration deployed 1,500 police personnel and put in place extensive security and traffic measures to manage the gathering. Emergency services, including ambulances and fire trucks, were stationed at strategic locations.
The chariot procession began at the Masirbari temple entrance and proceeded toward Jagannath Dham in the afternoon, with devotees lining up the entire route. Traffic restrictions were in effect since Friday midnight, with normal vehicular movement either restricted or completely shut beyond Digha Gate.
"It was a nice feeling listening to hymns. Ideally, a fair, with relaxation on movement of traffic, will help make the festival even more popular," said Anjan Chakraborty, a visitor from Behala.
Local businesses reported a significant surge in sales, with hotels seeing decent occupancy. "Ulto Rath falling on a Saturday helped our cause. This festival has brought unprecedented economic activity to our region," said a tour operator.