India is a land of festivals, and one of the most famous and grand festivals celebrated in Odisha is Rath Yatra, also known as the Festival of Chariots. This festival is mainly dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.
What is Rath Yatra?
Rath Yatra is a special annual festival where the idols of Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra are taken out of their temple in Puri, Odisha, and placed in beautifully decorated huge wooden chariots. These chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees through the streets from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, which is about 3 kilometers away.
When is Rath Yatra Celebrated?
Rath Yatra is celebrated every year in the month of June or July, on the second day of the bright fortnight of the Ashadha month according to the Hindu calendar.
Why is Rath Yatra Celebrated?
The main reason behind the Rath Yatra is to allow people, especially those who are not allowed inside the Jagannath Temple, to have a glimpse of the deities and seek their blessings. It is believed that Lord Jagannath along with Balabhadra and Subhadra comes out of the temple to visit his birthplace, the Gundicha Temple, and stays there for 9 days.
The Preparation of Rath Yatra
Chariot Making: The preparation of Rath Yatra starts months before the festival. The three chariots are made freshly every year from special neem wood, following traditional rules.
Names of Chariots:
Lord Jagannath’s chariot is called Nandighosha with 16 wheels.
Lord Balabhadra’s chariot is called Taladhwaja with 14 wheels.
Devi Subhadra’s chariot is called Darpadalana with 12 wheels.
Each chariot is beautifully decorated with colorful fabrics, flowers, and flags.
How is Rath Yatra Celebrated?
On the day of Rath Yatra, the idols are brought out of the temple in a grand ceremony called Pahandi, where the deities are carried to the chariots with music, chants, and dancing.
The Gajapati King of Puri performs the ritual of Chhera Pahanra, where he sweeps the chariots with a golden broom. This shows that everyone is equal in the eyes of God.
After the rituals, thousands of devotees pull the ropes of the huge chariots with great devotion, singing and chanting “Jai Jagannath”.
The deities stay at Gundicha Temple for 9 days, after which they return in the same manner, which is called Bahuda Yatra.
Significance of Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra is not just a festival but a symbol of equality, devotion, and spirituality.
It is believed that pulling the ropes of the chariots helps devotees get rid of sins and brings prosperity and happiness.
People from all over the world, irrespective of caste, religion, or nationality, gather in Puri to witness this divine event.
Rath Yatra Celebrations Across the World
Though Puri is the main center of Rath Yatra, this festival is also celebrated in different parts of India like Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai. Internationally, it is celebrated in countries like the USA, UK, Australia, and many more, especially by followers of ISKCON.
