Adani @ Rath Yatra

Sacred Nourishment, Sustainable Spirit: Adani Group’s Devotional Meals Honour Lord Jagannath and the Earth

As the majestic chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra rolled through the sacred streets of Puri on 27 June, the ancient coastal town witnessed not just a spiritual spectacle, but a silent revolution in service. A parallel journey of compassion, community, and climate consciousness was quietly unfolding—anchored by Gautam Adani’s enduring belief that “Seva hi Sadhana hai” (Service is Worship).

At the heart of this initiative was a partnership between the Adani Group and ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness). Over the course of the nine-day Rath Yatra, they have pledged to serve more than 4 million sattvic meals and fruit juices to lakhs of pilgrims, security personnel, and volunteers. The effort is monumental in scale—but what makes it truly transformative is its unwavering commitment to sustainability and sanctity.

Every meal is meticulously planned to offer up to 900 calories, over 20 grams of protein, and a wholesome blend of rice, dalma, tomato chutney, and gulab jamun—nourishing not only the body but the soul. Fresh fruit juices, too, are being served—a thoughtful inclusion that replenishes pilgrims and combats the Odisha summer’s relentless heat. But beyond the nutrients, this effort feeds something deeper: the spirit of collective care.

A standout aspect of this seva is its climate-conscious design. In a groundbreaking move for an Indian religious gathering of this size, the Adani Group has eliminated all single-use plastic and thermocol from the food distribution chain. Meals are served on biodegradable paper plates, and segregated waste is collected at scores of locations, with plans underway to convert the biodegradable portions into compost.

“This is not just food—it’s a sacred offering,” said an Adani Group volunteer. “And the Earth is part of that offering. To serve the divine is to serve the planet.”

From spotless, high-volume ISKCON kitchens to the final serving counter, volunteers in aprons and gloves embody the ethos of seva. Some have travelled from across India, driven by a deep sense of devotion and purpose. Their efforts are tireless and heartfelt—an act of faith expressed through action. Working in synchrony, these volunteers are serving not only the lakhs of devotees but also the guardians of the yatra—members of the Odisha Police and other security personnel, all of whom partook in the sanctified meals.

What began as a food distribution programme has evolved into a template for eco-conscious celebration—where nutritional value meets spiritual intent, and faith embraces environmental stewardship. The integration of clean kitchens, zero-plastic logistics, energy-efficient preparation, and waste minimisation has been applauded by environmental experts and civic leaders as a model to emulate.

As the divine chariots return to their sanctum on 5 July, what remains is not just the afterglow of festivity—but the deep imprint of seva. Seva that nourished not only lakhs of stomachs but countless hearts. Seva that honoured tradition while safeguarding tomorrow. Seva that was quietly powerful, relentlessly compassionate, and rooted in vision. Seva that was not just done—but a lived experience.

This Rath Yatra, under Gautam Adani’s vision, has shown that true devotion lies not only in ritual, but in responsibility—to the people, to the planet, and to the sacred bonds that unite both.