2026 Yatra - The Journey Begins

 

Day 1 — The Journey Begins

Kolkata to Bhubaneswar… then onward to Sri Jagannath Puri

Dear Devotees, Dandavat Pranams. All glories to Srila Prabhupada.

Today marks the beginning of our Pilgrimage of the Heart 2026 — not yet in the holy dham, but on the sacred path leading us there.

We begin our journey from Kolkata, traveling to Bhubaneswar, and then onward to Sri Jagannath Puri Dhama, the merciful abode of Lord Jagannath — the Lord of the Universe.

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The Pilgrimage Begins Before Arrival

Although we have not yet reached Puri, the Yatra has already begun… in our hearts.

Pilgrimage is not only about arriving at a holy place — it begins the moment we leave behind our routines, comforts, and distractions, and turn our consciousness toward the Lord.

Every step of travel…

Every mile covered…

Every moment of anticipation…

is part of the purification.

There is a beautiful mood of waiting and longing — preparing ourselves inwardly before entering the sacred Dhama.

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The Vision for Pilgrimage of the Heart 2026

H.G. Vaisesika Prabhu’s vision for the 2026 Yatra is to encourage increased Sankirtana in service of the Dhama. With this intention, this year’s pilgrimage is centered not only on visiting holy places, but on actively serving together in a spirit of devotion.

The Yatra will include:

• Harinama Sankirtana

• Book Distribution

• Prasadam Distribution

• Ongoing Krsna Katha

• Visits to Holy Places

This beautiful focus reminds us that pilgrimage is not just about receiving mercy — but also about sharing mercy.

Many devotees who attended previous yatras have described their experiences as life-transforming, filled with deep realizations and unforgettable memories in the association of senior devotees. Hearing this fills our hearts with gratitude and anticipation for what lies ahead.

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Mood of Anticipation

There is something deeply special about this stage of the journey — when we are traveling toward the Dhama but have not yet arrived.

Some are chanting quietly.

Some are reflecting on personal intentions.

Some are praying for purification.

Some are simply feeling grateful to be given this opportunity.

We are moving closer — not just geographically, but spiritually.

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Inner Preparation

Before entering the Dhama, we prepare ourselves inwardly:

• to come with humility

• to serve rather than enjoy

• to receive mercy, not demand experience

• to walk gently in sacred land

We pray that when we finally behold Lord Jagannath, our hearts will be ready.

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Traveling Toward Mercy

Soon we will reach Bhubaneswar… and from there continue toward the ocean breeze, the temple flags, and the compassionate glance of Lord Jagannath.

The Dhama is waiting.

But more importantly — the Lord is waiting.

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Prayer

May this journey purify our intentions.

May every mile bring remembrance of Krishna.

May we arrive not only with our bodies… but with surrendered hearts.

Tomorrow — Jagannath Puri.

Jaya Jagannath!

Jaya Srila Prabhupada!