As the Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 begins on June 27, devotees across India are preparing to celebrate the sacred journey of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra from the Puri Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. The 12-day spiritual festival concludes on July 8 and is marked by devotion, vibrant rituals, and special food offerings (bhogs).
One of the most cherished aspects of the Rath Yatra is preparing and offering traditional dishes to Lord Jagannath at home. Here are five sacred and delicious bhog recipes you can make:
1. Malpua
A favorite of Lord Jagannath, Malpua is a sweet treat made by frying a batter of wheat flour and khoya, then soaking it in sugar syrup. This is one of the first bhogs offered before the chariot journey begins. It’s simple, flavorful, and devotional.
2. Poda Pitha
A classic Odia festive delicacy, Poda Pitha is a slow-cooked rice cake made with rice, urad dal, jaggery, and coconut. Its smoky flavor and rich texture make it a divine offering, particularly popular during Rath Yatra.
3. Pakhala Bhaat
Perfect for summer, Pakhala Bhaat is made by fermenting rice in curd or water and lightly spicing it. This cooling, probiotic-rich dish is a staple in Odisha and is also part of the temple’s offerings to Lord Jagannath.
4. Khichdi
Offered as part of the 56 bhogs (Chappan Bhog) at the Jagannath Temple, this onion-garlic-free khichdi made with rice and lentils is pure, humble, and spiritually significant. It’s both comforting and sattvic, ideal for festive offerings.
5. Khaja
One of the most iconic sweets of the Jagannath Temple, Khaja is a crispy, layered sweet deep-fried and dipped in sugar syrup. It’s flaky, rich, and an absolute must-have during Rath Yatra festivities.
A Sacred Culinary Celebration
These bhog recipes are more than just dishes—they’re acts of devotion, representing the love and reverence of millions for Lord Jagannath. Whether you’re in Odisha or elsewhere, preparing these traditional offerings at home brings you closer to the spirit of the festival.
Celebrate Rath Yatra 2025 by cooking these sacred dishes and offering them with heartfelt devotion.