Rath Yatra 2025: Millions have gathered in Puri. There is a sense of serenity intermingled with passion, faith and love as people congregate to witness the grandeur of Rath Yatra 2025. And what could be a more perfect time than now to revisit the timeless connection between Lord Jagannath , Odia cinema and millions of his devotees. Over the last few decades, filmmakers have turned to the divine to craft compelling stories that not only reflect faith but is the very essence of Odisha’s cultural identity. These movies either sing songs of praise for Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balarama and sister Subhadra or recount tales of faith between the divine and His faithful. Here are 5 Odia movies that celebrate the spirit of Lord Jagannath, through tales of devotion, mythology, and divine intervention. Jai Jagannatha (2006) One of the most ambitious devotional films made in Odisha, Jai Jagannatha tells the story of Bidyapati and Bimala, whose devotion to Lord Jagannatha transcends all sorts of barriers, be it caste or societal. Made in multiple languages, it promoted Jagannath consciousness. It was directed by National Award-winning director Sabyasachi Mohapatra, and was based on Laxmi Purana. Hisab Kariba Kalia (1990) Released in the 1990s, Hisab Kariba Kalia became a popular Odia film thanks to its compelling narrative and powerful performances. The film starred Debu Bose as the principled Dinanath Master, with Dukhiram Swain portraying the antagonist. Supporting roles by Sriram Panda, Mihir Das, and Rai Mohan Parida added to the film’s emotional depth. While primarily a social drama, the film offered a subtle yet significant glimpse of Lord Jagannath, reflecting the enduring presence of the divine in the everyday lives of ordinary people. Manika (1976) The 1976 film draws from the legend of Lord Jahannath’s ‘Kanchi Abhiyan’ and the story of the humble curd-seller Manika. The R Asrar directorial was produced by Jogendra Mohapatra and Purna Mohapatra. The film beautifully etches myth with human emotion. Premanjan Mohanty crafted the screenplay and dialogues, grounding the epic tale in powerful storytelling. The role of Manika was essayed by Tandra Ray, while Bijay Mohanty played her husband, Chandra Behera. The divine presence of Lord Jagannath was portrayed by Guru Dutt, adding spiritual depth to this cinematic tribute to faith and destiny. Shree Jagannath (1950) One of the earliest milestones of Odia cinema, Shree Jagannath was the third film ever made in the industry and remains a significant devotional tribute to the Lord of Puri. Rooted in the culture, legends, and history of Lord Jagannath, the film featured a stellar ensemble including Gopal Chandra Ghosh, Gloria Mohanty, Chapala Nayak, Ramachandra Mania, Khagendra Nath Mitra, Samuel Sahu (Babi), and Bhim Singh. It also marked the debut of Chapala Nayak—later known as Parbati Ghosh—as a child artist, setting the stage for a legendary career. Jaga Hatare Pagha (2015) Tarang Cine Productions released its third film, Jaga Hatare Pagha, in 2015. Directed by Murali Krishna, the film featured dialogues penned by Dr. Nirmala Nayak and music composed by Prem Anand. The movie starred Anubhav Mohanty and Jhilik Bhattacharjee in the lead roles, with Buddhaditya Mohanty playing the antagonist. Elina Samantaray appeared as the second lead, while seasoned actors Ajit Das, Minaketan, and Asit Pati played supporting roles. As chariots roll and conches blow this Rath Yatra, with thousands of devotees taking to streets to celebrate Lord Jagannath these films offer a cinematic celebration of faith, heritage, and the enduring glory of the Lord of the Universe.