Odisha's Historic Rath Yatra: A Unifying Celebration in Kotia
Unity in Diversity at Kotia's Rath Yatra
Pottangi: In a remarkable display of solidarity, the Odisha government marked a significant moment by uniting in the disputed Kotia region, featuring the involvement of five Cabinet ministers and leaders from various political parties during the Rath Yatra festivities at Adim Srikhetra.
The Rath Yatra was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Kotia panchayat headquarters, just a day after the main event in Puri, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of tribal drums, conch shells, and the spirited chants of ‘Hari Bol’.
A large gathering of devotees, including tribal community members from Koraput and surrounding areas, came together to pull the ornately decorated chariot carrying Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, symbolizing both their spiritual devotion and a strong assertion of their territorial identity.
The Kotia Jagannath Temple, established 22 years ago under the guidance of Puri Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, has become a potent emblem of Odisha’s cultural sovereignty in the contested Kotia area.
This year's Rath Yatra held special significance as it marked the first time that five Cabinet ministers and various political leaders participated in pulling the chariot alongside local villagers.
Deputy Chief Minister KV Singh Deo, Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari, School and Mass Education Minister Nityanand Gond, Mines and Transport Minister Bibhuti Jena, and Fisheries and Animal Husbandry Minister Gokulananda Mallick not only offered their prayers but also actively engaged in the procession.
They joined in singing devotional songs, dancing with tribal performers from Malkangiri, and participating in rituals conducted in indigenous languages such as Kui and Gadaba.
The presence of Koraput MP Saptagiri Shankar Ulaka (Congress) and other opposition leaders illustrated a rare political unity, sending a clear message: Kotia is an integral part of Odisha — culturally, spiritually, and constitutionally.
A tribal elder remarked, “This is not merely a celebration; it’s a declaration of belonging. Lord Jagannath resides here too. This is our Adim Srikhetra, the original sacred land.”
Women adorned in vibrant traditional attire sang folk bhajans, while elderly tribal priests led rituals, highlighting the deep-rooted connection between Lord Jagannath and the forest-dwelling communities who revere Him as Daru Devata (the wooden deity).
On the development front, Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari announced that monthly reviews of all government departments will now take place in Kotia, chaired by District Magistrate V Keerthi Vasan, to ensure quicker implementation of welfare initiatives.
He also unveiled plans for a new guest house and infrastructure improvements as part of Odisha’s long-term vision for the region.
Senior officials, including the Koraput Collector, district administrators, and security personnel, were present to facilitate the smooth execution of the festival, which has evolved into a celebration of devotion, dignity, and Odisha’s enduring presence in the area.
As the chariot traversed the hilly landscape of Kotia, it carried not only the deities but also a powerful message of Asmita (identity), Astitva (existence), and Odisha’s unwavering bond with Kotia.
Eight MLAs and two MPs, including Balabhadra Majhi, Jeypore MLA Taraprasad Bahinipati, Congress Legislature Party Leader Ramchandra Kadam, former MP Jayaram Pangi, and former Koraput Collector Gadadhar Parida, also took part in the festivities.