On 29th June 2025, the spiritual landscape of Sydney witnessed a deeply historic moment as the Odia community of Australia, under the banner of ORIOZ (The Association of Odias in Australia), hosted the first-ever Puri Shree Jagannatha Ratha Jatra in Sydney at Blacktown Showground.
Rooted in the ancient traditions of Puri, Odisha, this sacred festival brought the glory of
Mahaprabhu Jagannatha’s divine chariot journey to Australian soil for the very first time, led by the devotion and dedication of the Odia diaspora.
The festival drew over 1,500 devotees, who gathered to pull the beautifully decorated chariot, sing kirtans, offer prayers, and present Chappan Bhoga (56 sacred offerings) to Lord Jagannatha, His brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra. The celebration was filled with deep emotion, with many participants describing it as a lifelong dream fulfilled.
The President of the Hindu Council of Australia, Mr. Sai Paravastu, joined the celebration in person, offering his blessings and support to this pioneering effort. His presence was deeply appreciated by the community and further reinforced the collective spirit of unity across Hindu traditions in Australia.
This inaugural Ratha Jatra also marked the launch of the Shree Jagannath Consciousness
Movement, an initiative by ORIOZ to promote the spiritual teachings and presence of Lord Jagannatha in Australia, with a long-term vision of establishing a dedicated Jagannath Mandir in Sydney.
The Hindu Council of Australia congratulates the Odia community for their devotion and organisational excellence. This Ratha Jatra was not just an event—it was a milestone in the preservation and celebration 
of India’s sacred traditions on Australian soil.
Jaya Jagannatha!
Sujeet Jena, Orioz and Shree Jagannatha Consciousness ANZ
#purijagannath #RathYatra #FirstRathYatrainSydney
