Day 4 of Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: Hera Panchami – When Goddess Lakshmi Demands Her Lord Back

Hera Panchami is an important ritual during the famous Jagannath Rath Yatra, mainly celebrated in Puri, Odisha. Every year, lakhs of people gather to witness this beautiful festival where Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings, travels from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. On the fifth day of this journey, the ritual of Hera Panchami takes place, which shows the divine bond between Lord Jagannath and Goddess Lakshmi.

What is Hera Panchami?

Hera Panchami is a sacred event held at the Gundicha Temple. In 2025, it will be observed on July 1. The word ”Hera” means ”to see”, and ”Panchami” means the fifth day. On this day, Goddess Lakshmi, the wife of Lord Jagannath, goes to the Gundicha Temple to check on the Lord, who has been away from the main temple for five days.

Hera Panchami 2025 – Date

Hera Panchami in 2025 will be celebrated on July 1. This special ritual takes place on the fifth day of the famous Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha. On this day, Goddess Lakshmi visits the Gundicha Temple to meet Lord Jagannath and express her feelings.

Why is Hera Panchami Celebrated?

According to legends, Goddess Lakshmi feels sad and ignored when Lord Jagannath leaves for the Rath Yatra without her. After waiting for five days, she visits the Gundicha Temple to express her feelings and to bring the Lord back. This shows their sweet and loving relationship. It is not just a ritual but also a beautiful story of divine love.

Rituals of Hera Panchami

• On Hera Panchami, Goddess Lakshmi is taken in a special procession from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.
• She travels in a decorated palanquin, and many people come to see this beautiful event.
• After reaching the temple, the Goddess is greeted with devotion and prayers.
• A part of Lord Jagannath’s chariot is symbolically broken by the servants of Lakshmi, showing her mild anger.
• After that, she returns quietly to the Jagannath Temple through a different path, not seen by many.

Significance of Hera Panchami

Hera Panchami is not just a ritual but a way to show the emotional and spiritual connection between the gods. It adds a unique charm to the Rath Yatra. People wait eagerly every year to watch this beautiful moment of divine love and faith.