As the sacred city of Puri gears up for the divine chariot procession of Lord Jagannath, News18 Odia has announced a comprehensive and immersive 15-day special coverage for Rath Yatra 2025. Commencing on June 27, 2025, and running through to July 11, 2025, the telecast promises to bring viewers closer to one of India’s most revered spiritual events, capturing every sacred ritual, vibrant cultural performance, and the unmatched devotional spirit of this iconic festival.
The highlight of News18 Odia’s programming will be the uninterrupted live broadcast directly from Puri, ensuring viewers experience every moment of the Rath Yatra and the Bahuda Yatra (return journey). Rath Yatra, the annual chariot festival, is scheduled for Friday, June 27, 2025, with the Bahuda Yatra typically occurring on the eighth day, July 5, 2025.
Beyond the live telecast of the main procession and return journey, News18 Odia’s special programming will feature ‘Badadande Bije Jagannath,’ a unique documentary-style build-up series. This series, airing from June 27 to July 5, will offer exclusive stories, expert interviews, and a behind-the-scenes look at the intricate preparations underway in Puri, providing viewers with spiritual insights into the traditions and mythology surrounding the chariot festival of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra.
To further deepen the spiritual connection for its audience, News18 Odia will also shine a spotlight on other revered locations across Odisha, including Kantilo Nilamadhab, Patali Srikhetra, and Chatiabata. These special focus segments will explore pilgrim experiences and the profound religious significance of these sites, connecting viewers to the broader sacred geography of Jagannath worship.
The extensive and elaborate coverage underscores News18 Odia’s commitment to delivering a holistic and enriching experience of the Rath Yatra to millions of homes across Odisha and beyond. The channel’s editorial and technical teams are already stationed in Puri, ensuring real-time visuals, immersive storytelling, and expert commentary to capture the essence of this grand spiritual and cultural tribute.
The special telecast is supported by a host of sponsors, including co-powered by Madhukunj Agarbatti, Evergreen Tea, Santanu English Medium School, and Nippo Swooper, along with various special and associate partners, amplifying the reach and celebration of this divine spectacle.
Key Highlights:
- News18 Odia has announced a 15-day special coverage for Rath Yatra 2025, beginning June 27 and extending through July 11, with live broadcasts directly from Puri.
- The extensive programming will include live telecasts of the main Rath Yatra on June 27 and the Bahuda Yatra on July 5, capturing all sacred rituals and cultural performances.
- A special documentary series, ‘Badadande Bije Jagannath,’ will offer behind-the-scenes insights, expert interviews, and details on festival preparations.
- The coverage will also highlight other significant pilgrimage sites in Odisha, connecting viewers to the broader spiritual and cultural heritage of Jagannath worship.