As global spiritual tourism regains momentum post-pandemic, Indian authorities have issued a health advisory ahead of one of the country’s most revered religious festivals — the Puri Rath Yatra, scheduled to begin on June 27 in the eastern coastal state of Odisha.
The Odisha Health Department has urged devotees exhibiting Covid-19 symptoms — such as fever, cold, or flu — to refrain from traveling to Puri, home to the iconic Jagannath Temple, and instead participate virtually.
Speaking to Indian media, Dr. Amarendra Nath Mohanty, Odisha’s Director of Health Services, said that while Covid-19 cases remain under control in the state, precaution remains key. “We’re not facing any alarming spike, but those with symptoms should avoid public gatherings. We recommend watching the Rath Yatra on television or digital platforms,” he said.
The Rath Yatra is expected to attract hundreds of thousands of devotees from across India and abroad, including a significant number from the Gulf region and Indian diaspora communities in Europe and North America.
Authorities have expanded hospital facilities in Puri, adding beds and deploying extra medical personnel to manage the health and safety of the large crowd expected during the nine-day religious procession.
Mohanty further advised attendees to observe basic COVID precautions, such as wearing masks and practicing hand hygiene, and cautioned travelers to consume clean water and fresh food to prevent waterborne diseases during the festival season, a common health challenge in monsoon-hit coastal India.
With increasing religious tourism from the UAE and GCC countries, Indian health officials are mindful of international attendees potentially carrying or contracting infectious diseases during mass gatherings. The advisory highlights a broader public health strategy to ensure a safe pilgrimage season while preserving traditional celebrations.
As of June 6, Odisha reported seven new COVID-19 cases, bringing the active caseload to 30 —a relatively low number —but officials emphasize the need for vigilance over complacency.
The Rath Yatra marks the ceremonial journey of the deities — Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra — from their temple to the Gundicha Temple, a deeply symbolic event in Hindu mythology observed by millions globally.
–Input IANS
