Patnaik Extends Rath Yatra Greetings from Hospital Bed; Kharge, Stalin Wish Him Speedy Recovery

Recuperating from a recent spine surgery, Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president and former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik extended his heartfelt greetings to the people of Odisha on the occasion of Rath Yatra on Thursday.

In a short video message from his hospital bed, Patnaik addressed the people of the state with folded hands, saying, “My dear brothers and sisters. My namaskar. My greetings to all for the auspicious Rath Yatra. Jai Jagannath.”

His message resonated widely among Odias, many of whom took to social media to express their support and appreciation for his gesture during recovery.

Following the message, several senior political leaders from across the country conveyed their concern and wished him a swift return to health. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin were among those who publicly extended their best wishes for Patnaik’s speedy recovery.

Naveen Patnaik, who served as the Chief Minister of Odisha for over two decades, underwent spine surgery recently and has been recuperating under medical supervision. Despite his health condition, his message reflected his enduring connection with the people and the traditions of Odisha.

The annual Rath Yatra, celebrating Lord Jagannath’s grand chariot procession in Puri, holds deep cultural and religious significance in the state.