As the Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 unfolded in Puri, Odisha, starting June 27, the Adani Group launched an ambitious seva campaign to support the millions of devotees flocking to the sacred city for the nine-day festival. In a remarkable humanitarian effort, the initiative aims to provide free, nutritious meals to approximately 40 lakh pilgrims, administrative staff, and security personnel, ensuring their sustenance amid the spiritual fervor of the chariot festival. This campaign, running from June 26 to July 8, is a collaborative endeavor with the Puri district administration, ISKCON, and local NGOs, reflecting a shared commitment to serve the devotees of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra.
Across Puri, numerous food counters have been set up along the bustling Bada Danda and other key locations, distributing an estimated 40 lakh food packets filled with wholesome meals, alongside beverages to combat the scorching heat. Recognizing the intense summer conditions, the Adani Group has established dedicated stalls offering chilled drinking water and refreshing drinks, providing much-needed relief to devotees enduring long hours under the sun to pull the massive chariots or witness the Pahandi procession. These efforts ensure that pilgrims, regardless of their background, can focus on their spiritual journey without the burden of hunger or dehydration.
Beyond food distribution, the campaign extends to enhancing Puri’s infrastructure and safety. The Adani Group has deployed a special security team at Puri Beach to bolster safety measures, particularly for devotees visiting the seafront during the festival. A robust beach clean-up drive, led by volunteers, focuses on removing plastic waste and maintaining the pristine beauty of the coastline, aligning with environmental sustainability goals. This initiative not only supports the pilgrims but also preserves Puri’s natural charm for future visitors.
To further aid the festival’s smooth operation, the Adani Group is providing essential supplies to municipal workers and volunteers. Puri Municipal Corporation employees have been equipped with safety jackets, while volunteers receive free T-shirts to foster a sense of unity and purpose. Additionally, raincoats, caps, jackets, and umbrellas are being distributed to devotees and officials to shield them from the intermittent drizzle reported during the Yatra, ensuring comfort amidst unpredictable weather.
This comprehensive seva campaign, inspired by the spirit of the Mahakumbh Mela, underscores the Adani Group’s commitment to social responsibility. By partnering with the Puri administration, ISKCON, and local NGOs, the initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of the 40 lakh devotees but also strengthens community ties and promotes environmental consciousness. As the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra roll through Puri’s streets, the Adani Group’s efforts ensure that the spiritual essence of the Rath Yatra is complemented by tangible acts of service, making the 2025 festival a memorable blend of devotion and compassion.
