India, July 28 -- day Rath Yatra 2026 in Puri concluded with the Niladri Bije ritual on Monday night, bringing the annual chariot festival to a close. Officials said the festival witnessed a record turnout of 4 to 5 million (40 to 50 lakh) devotees.

As part of the traditional Niladri Bije rituals, Lord Jagannath symbolically appeased Goddess Mahalaxmi by offering Rasagola before re-entering the Srimandir. The atmosphere at the Singhadwara remained deeply devotional during Niladri Bije, with devotees enthusiastically participating in the concluding rituals despite the rain.

In spite of the inclement weather, the rituals were conducted according to schedule. The Charamala was tied at 7:55 pm, followed by the Pahandi procession. Lord Bal...